7-Day Instant Pot Turkey Challenge: Delicious Meals Under $4/Serving

By Rossi Voss | November 2024 | Prep: 10–15 mins | Cook: 15–35 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $2.75–$3.80/serving

Welcome to the 7-Day Instant Pot Turkey Challenge! If you think turkey is just for Thanksgiving, prepare to have your mind blown. This lean, protein-packed meat can be the star of your dinner table all year round — and we're going to show you how!

Each of these recipes comes in at under $4 per serving and uses your Instant Pot for quick, easy preparation after a busy day. After writing 100 Instant Pot Turkey Recipes (only $0.99!), I’ve perfected these meals to be flavorful, satisfying, and freezer-friendly.

💰 The Challenge Rules

• Cook one turkey recipe each day for 7 days
• Share your progress on social media with #TurkeyChallenge
• Try at least one new preparation method you haven't used before
• Note which recipes your family enjoys most!

Day 1: Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Cost: $3.25/serving | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins

Kick off your challenge with this hearty, flavor-packed chili that's perfect for a winter evening.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 cups chicken broth

1. Set Instant Pot to Sauté and brown turkey with onion and pepper.
2. Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
3. Seal and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
5. Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheese or Greek yogurt.

Day 2: Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy

Cost: $3.75/serving | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 35 mins

Enjoy tender, juicy turkey breast with a flavorful herb gravy that tastes like it simmered all day.

• 2 lb boneless turkey breast
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

1. Place turkey breast in Instant Pot with broth, onion, garlic, and herbs.
2. Cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes.
3. Natural release for 10 minutes.
4. Remove turkey and let rest.
5. Mix cornstarch and water, add to pot to thicken gravy.
6. Slice turkey and serve with gravy.

Day 3: Turkey & Vegetable Stew

Cost: $2.90/serving | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins

A comforting stew packed with vegetables and tender turkey pieces.

• 1 lb turkey thigh, cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 potato, cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1 bay leaf

1. Combine all ingredients in Instant Pot.
2. Cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
3. Natural release for 5 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Day 4: Turkey & Rice Bowl

Cost: $2.75/serving | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins

A simple, satisfying bowl that comes together in minutes.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Green onions, for garnish

1. Brown turkey in Instant Pot using Sauté function.
2. Add vegetables, soy sauce, oil, and garlic. Stir.
3. Add ¼ cup water, seal, and cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Quick release, stir, and serve over rice.

Day 5: Turkey Curry

Cost: $3.50/serving | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins

An aromatic curry that will transport your taste buds.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp ginger, grated

1. Sauté onion and garlic in Instant Pot.
2. Add turkey and cook until browned.
3. Stir in curry powder, tomatoes, coconut milk, and ginger.
4. Seal and cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Natural release 5 minutes, then quick release.

Day 6: Turkey Taco Soup

Cost: $3.10/serving | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins

All the flavors of tacos in a comforting soup.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 4 cups chicken broth

1. Brown turkey in Instant Pot.
2. Add all remaining ingredients.
3. Seal and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Quick release and serve with tortilla chips or avocado.

Day 7: Turkey & Stuffing Complete Meal

Cost: $3.80/serving | Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins

Thanksgiving flavors any time of year, made easy in your Instant Pot.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups stuffing mix
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 tsp sage
• 1/2 tsp thyme

1. Brown turkey in Instant Pot.
2. Add broth, stuffing, vegetables, and herbs.
3. Seal and cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Natural release 10 minutes, then fluff and serve.

Want More Turkey Recipes?

Discover 100+ delicious ways to prepare turkey in your Instant Pot!

Get my bestselling cookbook with step-by-step instructions and beautiful photos:

Instant Pot Turkey Recipes ($0.99 Kindle) Paperback Version ($7.99)

Expand Your Turkey Recipe Collection

Check out these other fantastic turkey cookbooks:

100 Unique Turkey Recipes ($0.99 Kindle) 120 Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipes ($0.99 Kindle)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, but add 5–10 minutes to cooking time for frozen turkey pieces.

What if I don't have all the ingredients?

These recipes are flexible! Substitute vegetables and spices with what you have on hand.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Join the Challenge!

Share your challenge progress with #TurkeyChallenge and tag @RossiVossCooking! We'll feature our favorite creations on our social media channels.

About Rossi Voss: A cookbook author and culinary educator with over 20 years of professional experience, Rossi specializes in demystifying complex restaurant techniques for the home cook. After training in French and Italian kitchens, Rossi now focuses on teaching through bestselling cookbooks and cooking classes that emphasize both the science and soul of cooking.