Homemade Dog Food Recipe Under $2 Per Serving With Turkey & Sweet Potato

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Fed up with expensive dog food and labels that read like a science experiment? It’s hard to tell what you’re actually feeding your pup, especially when health problems start cropping up.

You want to give them the best, but finding food that’s both good and affordable feels nearly impossible. Good news: there’s a smarter, cheaper homemade dog food recipe to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features turkey and sweet potato, offering a balanced meal that supports digestion and provides sustained energy.
• It’s budget-friendly, costing under $2 per serving.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey (93% lean): $6.50
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: $2.00
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped: $1.50
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced: $1.00
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (uncooked): $0.50
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth: $0.25
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: $0.10
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits): $0.05
• Optional: High-quality canine multivitamin/mineral supplement (consult vet for brand/dosage): $0.50 (per batch est.)

Total Estimated Cost: $12.40 (for 8-10 servings)

Substitutions:

• Ground turkey can be swapped with ground chicken or lean ground beef.
• Sweet potatoes can be replaced with pumpkin or butternut squash.
• Green beans and carrots can be substituted with peas or chopped spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the ground turkey and break it apart with a spoon.
• Cook until the turkey is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat from the pot.
• Next, add the diced sweet potatoes, chopped green beans, and diced carrots to the pot.
• Pour in the water or low-sodium chicken broth.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• After 15 minutes, stir in the rolled oats and turmeric (if using).
• Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the oats are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely before serving.
• If using a canine multivitamin, stir it in after the food has cooled to preserve nutrient integrity.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4 cups per day.
• Giant breeds (over 90 lbs): 4.5+ cups per day.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might need more food, divided into smaller, more frequent meals.
• Older or less active dogs may need slightly less to maintain a healthy weight.
• For pregnant or nursing dogs, increase portions significantly as advised by your vet.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations based on your dog’s specific health, activity level, and life stage.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground turkey provides high-quality lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall energy.
• Sweet potatoes are packed with complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and are a great source of dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion. They also offer vitamins A and C.
• Green beans and carrots add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Carrots are particularly good for vision.
• Rolled oats contribute additional fiber for digestive health and provide a good source of energy.
• Olive oil offers healthy fats, including Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin and coat health.
• Turmeric is an optional anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help with joint health.
• Adding a canine multivitamin ensures a complete and balanced nutrient profile, covering essential vitamins (A, D, E, K, B-complex) and minerals (Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, etc.).

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Always ensure the food is cooled to a safe temperature (warm or room temperature) before serving.
• You can serve this meal on its own, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to gradually transition them or add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely. This recipe is great for meal prepping. Freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months and thaw as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have specific nutritional needs, especially for calcium and phosphorus for bone development. Always consult your vet about supplementing and portion sizes for puppies, especially regarding a canine multivitamin.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, is this safe?

This recipe uses lean turkey and easily digestible sweet potatoes and oats, which are generally good for sensitive stomachs. However, introduce any new food slowly and watch for any adverse reactions. Your vet can advise further.

How can I make sure this recipe is nutritionally complete?

For long-term feeding as a primary diet, adding a vet-approved canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is crucial. This ensures your dog gets all necessary micronutrients that homemade diets can sometimes miss.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog homemade meals is a loving choice, and this turkey and sweet potato recipe makes it easy and affordable. It’s healthy, delicious, and budget-friendly. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!