Slow Cooker Italian Turkey Patties with Peppers Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the onions in a separate pan before adding them to the slow cooker, though this is optional. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce can introduce a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the turkey. Always ensure the slow cooker lid is properly sealed to maintain the necessary moisture levels throughout the long cooking duration.

When serving, consider the visual presentation by placing the patties on a warm plate and spooning the pepper and sauce mixture directly over the top.

This not only keeps the dish warm for longer but also ensures that every portion receives an equal amount of the flavorful vegetables and sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the patties once cooked and whisk a small amount of cornstarch into the remaining liquid on high heat.

Variations

• Spicy Turkey Patties: Add one tablespoon of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce before cooking to introduce a pleasant heat that complements the sweetness of the bell peppers.
• Cheesy Topped Patties: During the final ten minutes of cooking, place a thin slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each patty, allowing it to melt into the sauce for a decadent finish.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming hot.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the turkey patties and sauce will maintain their quality in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, ensure the dish is heated thoroughly until steaming hot throughout, maintaining the food safety standards required for poultry dishes to prevent bacterial growth.

The patties can be shaped and stored in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking. Keep them in a flat, covered container to prevent them from losing their shape. The peppers and onions can also be sliced in advance and kept in a separate container.

When ready to cook, simply arrange the cold patties in the slow cooker, add the prepared vegetables and sauce, and proceed with the standard cooking instructions as outlined.

Serving ideas

These turkey patties are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. For a classic Italian-inspired meal, serve them alongside a portion of al dente pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, which holds the marinara sauce exceptionally well.

Alternatively, a side of creamy polenta or roasted garlic mashed potatoes provides a comforting base that absorbs the savory juices of the braised turkey and peppers, creating a well-rounded dinner experience.

If you prefer a lighter side, a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, slow-cooked flavors of the turkey. A piece of crusty sourdough bread is also an excellent addition, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce from the plate.

Regardless of the side chosen, ensure the dish is served warm, and consider garnishing with a small amount of fresh basil or parsley if you desire a pop of color.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Italian Turkey Patties with Peppers

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey, shaped into 4 patties
• 2 cups bell peppers, sliced into strips
• 1/2 cup onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Shape the ground turkey into four equal-sized patties. Arrange the raw patties around the inner wall of the slow cooker insert, ensuring they are placed evenly to allow for consistent heat distribution during the cooking process.
2. Distribute the sliced bell peppers and onions into the center and around the turkey patties. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the top of the turkey and vegetables to ensure every bite is well-flavored.
3. Pour the marinara sauce over the patties and vegetables. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Once cooked, verify the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow the patties to rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure tenderness.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

7 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.