Can You Mix Ground Turkey & Ground Beef? Answered

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

Hankering for **new tastes** in your ground meat recipes? Ditch the typical beef and **try lean meats** such as ground turkey. #CookingTips 🍖🍽️

But what if you’re in the mood for a dish that calls for beef and only has ground turkey on hand? Can you mix ground turkey and ground beef? This is a common question among home cooks, which we will answer today. Read on.

Is It Okay To Mix Ground Turkey & Ground Beef?

Yes, mixing ground turkey [1] and ground beef is okay, and it can have some benefits. Combining the two types of meat can reduce the amount of saturated fat in your dish while still providing the beefy flavor. 

It can also provide a more complex flavor profile and be a healthier option. However, there are some potential drawbacks to mixing the two types of meat, such as differences in cooking time and changes in texture. 

It’s essential to use the correct ratio and adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure that both types of meat cook evenly.

Read:

• How Long Can You Keep A Fresh Turkey In The Refrigerator?
• How Long Can You Leave Cooked Ground Beef Out?
• Is It Better To Bake Or Fry Meatballs?

What Are The Pros Of Mixing Them?

One of the main advantages is that it can reduce the overall fat content of the dish. Turkey is typically lower in fat than beef; combining the two can create a leaner meat mixture. 

Additionally, using both types of meat can provide a more complex flavor profile that is both meaty and rich. Mixing the two types of meat can also make dishes like burgers, meatballs, or meatloaf more tender and juicy. 

Ultimately, combining ground turkey and ground beef [2] can create a healthier, more flavorful dish that is sure to please.

Read:

• How To Add Fat To Lean Ground Beef?
• How To Tell When Ground Turkey Is Done?
• How To Keep Turkey Burgers From Falling Apart?

What Are The Cons Of Mixing Ground Turkey & Ground Beef?

While mixing ground turkey and beef can have several benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks. One of the main issues is that the two types of meat have different cooking times and temperatures. 

Turkey cooks faster than beef, so if the ratio of turkey to beef is high, it can result in overcooked or undercooked turkey.

“One of my rules is pay more, eat less. You do get what you pay for, and if you’re willing to pay more for pastured eggs or grass-fed beef, you’re getting something that’s more delicious, and you’ll feel better about eating it.”

– Michael Pollan, Author

Additionally, the two types of meat have different textures, and the combination can result in a texture that is not desirable to some people. 

It’s also important to note that ground turkey can be more prone to drying out than ground beef, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the dish to avoid this issue.

Lastly, mixing the two types of meat can also be more expensive than using just one.

Read: Do You Need Oil To Cook Ground Beef?

Best Ratio Of Ground Turkey To Ground Beef

When mixing them together, the best ratio of ground turkey to ground beef depends on the recipe and personal preference.

However, a typical ratio that works well in many dishes is a 50/50 mix of ground turkey and beef. 

This will provide a good balance of flavors and textures while reducing the dish’s overall fat content.

That being said, some recipes may call for more or less of one type of meat, so following the recipe instructions carefully is essential. 

Some Tips For Cooking Dishes With A Mixture Of Ground Turkey & Ground Beef

1. Use a 50/50 mix of ground turkey and beef, or adjust the ratio based on the recipe instructions.
2. Add flavor to the mixture with spices, herbs, and seasonings.
3. Cook the meat on medium-high heat to ensure it’s fully cooked and avoid any foodborne illness.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, which should be at least 165°F (74°C).
5. If making dishes like meatballs or burgers, add a binding agent like breadcrumbs or eggs to help hold the mixture together.
6. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture when mixing, as this can result in tough meatballs or burgers.
7. Keep an eye on the cooking time and temperature, as the different meats can cook at different rates. Adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Dishes That Work Well With These Meats

1. Meatloaf: A mixture of ground turkey and beef is perfect for a classic meatloaf recipe. The two types of meat create a flavorful and juicy meatloaf that can be served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
2. Chili: A hearty and flavorful recipe with ground turkey and beef can be made. This can be served with rice, bread, or nachos for a delicious and satisfying meal.
3. Burgers: Combining ground turkey and ground beef is an excellent way to create a tasty and healthier burger. Add your preferred seasoning and herbs to the mix for a delicious burger.
4. Meatballs: Meatballs can be made with a mixture of ground turkey and beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and your preferred seasoning. This can be served with tomato sauce, spaghetti, or mashed potatoes.
5. Tacos: Combining ground turkey and beef makes flavorful taco meat. Add taco seasoning and cook the meat with onion, garlic, and chili powder to add flavor.

FAQs

In Conclusion 

Mixing ground turkey and beef is a great way to create delicious and healthy meals. The combination of these two types of meat can provide a well-balanced flavor and texture while also reducing the overall fat content of a dish. 

However, it is essential to consider the differences between the two types of meat, such as their fat content and cooking times, and adjust cooking methods accordingly. 

By following the recommended guidelines and experimenting with different ratios and dishes, you can create various flavorful and satisfying meals using a mixture of ground turkey and ground beef.

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/693/meat-and-poultry/turkey/ground/
2. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/photos/ground-beef-recipes