Name: Meal-Prep Turkey Cobb Salad
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups deli turkey, cubed; 4 cups mixed greens; 4 hard-boiled eggs, halved; 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup cucumber, diced; Optional dressing of choice (vinaigrette or ranch)

There’s something incredibly satisfying about opening your fridge on a busy weekday and finding a vibrant, flavor-packed salad ready to go. That’s exactly why I love this Meal-Prep Turkey Cobb Salad. It checks all the boxes—easy to make, filling, and loaded with ingredients that keep well for days. Inspired by the classic Cobb salad, this version has a fun little twist: we’re swapping the traditional grilled chicken for tender, cubed deli turkey and replacing blue cheese with sharp cheddar for a more approachable, family-friendly flavor.

I first started making this salad during a particularly hectic season of life when my workdays blurred into each other and takeout was becoming a bad habit. I needed something easy to prep on Sunday that would carry me through the week without any lunchtime regret. That’s when this turkey Cobb salad came to the rescue. It quickly became a meal prep hero in our household—not just because it’s delicious, but because it holds up so well and keeps you full for hours.

Between the creamy hard-boiled eggs, crispy turkey bacon, fresh greens, and that generous sprinkle of cheddar, this salad has all the texture and richness you want in a meal. And yet, it’s totally balanced with plenty of protein, healthy fats, and a good hit of fiber. Whether you’re working from home, packing lunch for the office, or just trying to make smarter choices during the week, this salad is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to add this Meal-Prep Turkey Cobb salad to your regular meal prep rotation. First off, it’s incredibly easy to throw together. You don’t need to do a lot of chopping, sautéing, or simmering. Most of the ingredients are either already cooked—like deli turkey and hard-boiled eggs—or require minimal prep. It’s truly beginner-friendly.

Secondly, it’s super satisfying. The combination of protein from the turkey and eggs, plus the richness of the cheddar and the crunch of fresh veggies, creates a salad that doesn’t feel like a compromise. You won’t be left hungry an hour later, which is a big win if you’re someone who typically finds salads underwhelming.

Another reason you’ll fall in love with this dish is its versatility. Not a fan of turkey? Swap it out with cooked chicken, leftover rotisserie meat, or even canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Want to add more veggies? Go for it. Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cherry tomatoes would all be right at home here.

And finally, it’s ideal for meal prep. Just portion everything into containers, store the dressing separately, and you’ve got lunch sorted for days. That’s the kind of organization that makes your future self so, so happy.

Health Benefits

This Meal-Prep Turkey Cobb salad isn’t just tasty—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. With a mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich greens, it fuels your body and keeps your energy steady throughout the day. Here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting:

High protein: With 15 grams of protein per serving, this salad supports muscle maintenance, curbs hunger, and helps you stay full for longer.
Good fats: The turkey bacon and cheddar cheese provide satisfying fats that add flavor and help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.
Fiber: The mixed greens, avocado, and vegetables bring in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar.
Low in carbs: With only 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it’s a great option for anyone watching their carb intake.
Vitamin-rich: This salad is bursting with nutrients, including vitamin A for eye health, vitamin C for immune support, and folate for energy metabolism.
Potassium and magnesium: Essential minerals like potassium and magnesium are great for muscle function and hydration.

All in all, it’s a smart, balanced meal that feels indulgent while still aligning with your health goals.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (if cooking bacon and boiling eggs)
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Serving Size: 3 cups

Nutrition Per Serving:

Calories: 275
Protein: 15g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 498mg

Vitamins & Minerals:

Vitamin A: 178% DV
Vitamin C: 12% DV
Folate: 39% DV
Calcium: 12% DV
Iron: 9% DV
Magnesium: 7% DV
Potassium: 10% DV

Ingredients List

2 cups deli turkey, cubed – This lean protein is convenient and flavorful. Choose low-sodium for a healthier option.
4 cups mixed greens – A mix of spinach, romaine, and arugula works beautifully here.
4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved – A creamy, rich source of protein and healthy fats.
4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled – Adds that crispy, smoky bite without using pork.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Brings a tangy richness that melts into each bite.
1 avocado, sliced – Adds creaminess and heart-healthy fats.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – For freshness and a pop of color.
½ cup cucumber, diced – Cool and crisp, it balances out the richness.
Optional dressing: A simple vinaigrette or your favorite store-bought dressing. Keep it on the side for meal prep.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the turkey
- If you haven’t already, cube the deli turkey into bite-sized pieces. Aim for roughly ½-inch chunks so they’re easy to eat and mix well into the salad.
Cook the turkey bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Let it cool slightly, then crumble or chop into small pieces.
Boil the eggs
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 10 minutes. Transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool, then peel and slice in half.
Chop the vegetables
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and bright.
Assemble the salads
- In individual meal prep containers or bowls, start with a base of mixed greens.
- Layer with cubed turkey, halved eggs, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, avocado slices, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
- For meal prep, store the dressing separately to keep the greens from wilting.
Serve or store
- If serving immediately, drizzle your dressing over the top and give it a gentle toss.
- If prepping for the week, seal each container tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

How to Serve

Serve this salad cold, directly from the fridge or after a quick 5-minute rest at room temperature.
Add your favorite dressing just before eating to keep the greens crisp.
Top with freshly cracked pepper or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for extra texture.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes: Try a cup of lentil soup, a whole-grain roll, or some roasted sweet potatoes to make it a complete meal.
For kids: Serve the deconstructed version with dressing on the side, and let them pick and choose their favorite parts.
Drink pairings: Enjoy it with a cold sparkling water with lemon, a homemade iced tea, or a fresh cucumber-mint cooler.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage: Keep prepped salads in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store dressing separately to avoid soggy greens.
Freezing: Avoid freezing this salad, as the fresh veggies and boiled eggs don’t thaw well.
Reheating: No reheating needed—this salad is best enjoyed cold. If you’d like to warm the turkey or bacon, you can microwave them separately and add them to the salad just before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not draining the eggs: Wet eggs can make your salad soggy. Pat them dry before slicing.
Overloading on dressing: Too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh flavors. Add just enough to coat.
Chopping avocado too early: It browns quickly, so slice it right before serving or toss in lemon juice to preserve the color.
Not cooling the bacon: Hot bacon can wilt your greens. Let it cool before adding it to the mix.
Using overly salty deli meat: Choose low-sodium turkey to balance out the saltiness of bacon and cheese.

Pro Tips

Meal prep like a pro: Use compartmentalized containers to keep ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat.
Upgrade your greens: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a flavor boost.
Make your own dressing: A simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of garlic powder works beautifully.
Batch-boil eggs: Boil a dozen at the start of the week and use them in other meals, too.
Customize your protein: Don’t hesitate to rotate proteins—try tuna, chickpeas, or shredded rotisserie chicken to keep things interesting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use another protein instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, chickpeas, tuna, or even grilled tofu all work great.

What kind of dressing goes best with this salad?
A simple vinaigrette, honey mustard, or creamy ranch are all delicious options. Go with your favorite!

Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, just leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?
Slice it right before eating or coat the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your deli turkey and bacon are certified gluten-free.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days, especially if you store the dressing and avocado separately.

Can I prepare everything in advance?
Yes! Pre-chop and portion the ingredients, but keep delicate items like avocado and dressing separate until ready to eat.

What’s the best way to cook turkey bacon?
In a skillet until crispy, or baked in the oven at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.

Do I need to peel the cucumber?
Not at all—leave the skin on for extra fiber and color.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheddar often tastes better and melts more evenly if you’re warming up any part of the salad.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s a reason this Meal-Prep Turkey Cobb Salad has become a favorite in my kitchen—it’s everything you want in a weekday lunch: quick to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, save time, or just enjoy a satisfying, no-fuss meal, this salad checks all the boxes.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it goes for you! Snap a photo and tag me on social media, or leave a comment sharing your favorite tweaks or substitutions. Meal prep doesn’t have to be boring, and with this turkey Cobb salad, your lunches just got a serious upgrade.