Easy Ground Turkey Skillet – Healthy, Quick, and Full of Flavor

Ground turkey is one of the most versatile and lean proteins you can cook with. This easy ground turkey skillet recipe is the perfect weeknight solution—quick to prepare, high in protein, and endlessly adaptable.

This one-pan dish brings together ground turkey with colorful vegetables, warm spices, and a touch of tomato for a meal that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying. Whether you serve it over rice, stuff it into lettuce wraps, or eat it as-is, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll make on repeat.

Ingredients Overview

Ground Turkey

Lean and mild, ground turkey takes on flavor beautifully. Use 93% lean for a balance of moisture and health. Avoid overly lean (99%) or it may turn out dry.

Bell Peppers

A mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds color, sweetness, and crunch.

Onion & Garlic

These foundational aromatics give the dish depth and bring out the savoriness of the turkey.

Zucchini

Adds moisture and bulk to the skillet, making the dish more filling and veggie-forward.

Diced Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes bring acidity and juiciness, helping tie all the ingredients together.

Tomato Paste

Adds richness and umami, giving a slow-simmered flavor in less time.

Spices

A mix of cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder gives the turkey a warm, mildly smoky flavor without overwhelming heat.

Olive Oil

Used for sautéing the aromatics and locking in flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

• Black beans for fiber and protein

• Corn for sweetness and color

• Spinach or kale for extra greens

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook another 30 seconds.

2. Brown the Turkey

Add 1 lb of ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables

Stir in:

• 1 diced red bell pepper

• 1 diced green bell pepper

• 1 small zucchini, chopped

Cook for another 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften.

4. Season and Simmer

Add:

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices

• Salt and pepper to taste

Stir everything together. Simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm as a bowl with rice, over salad, inside lettuce cups, or stuffed into tortillas.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips

• Use medium heat to prevent the turkey from drying out.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet so the meat browns rather than steams.

• Dice vegetables evenly so they cook uniformly.

Variations

• Southwest-style: Add black beans, corn, and lime juice

• Italian-style: Use Italian seasoning, omit chili, and top with Parmesan

• Asian-style: Swap cumin and paprika for ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil

Substitutions

• Ground chicken or lean beef work in place of turkey

• Use fresh tomatoes in summer months

• Substitute carrots or mushrooms for zucchini if preferred

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This recipe is meal-prep friendly and makes great leftovers. Serve with:

• Rice or quinoa

• Roasted sweet potatoes

• Stuffed into bell peppers or tacos

• Topped with avocado and Greek yogurt

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners

• Work lunches

• Clean-eating meal plans

• Low-carb and high-protein diets

Nutritional & Health Notes

Ground turkey is a lean protein source that’s low in saturated fat and rich in nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. Combined with vegetables and cooked in olive oil, it’s a balanced and heart-healthy meal.

Each serving (without rice) is:

• High in protein (~25g)

• Low in carbs

• Moderate in fat (healthy fats from olive oil)

• High in fiber if beans or corn are added

Make it gluten-free by checking that your tomato paste and canned tomatoes have no added gluten ingredients.

FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze this ground turkey skillet?
A1: Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.

Q2: Is ground turkey healthier than ground beef?
A2: It can be. Ground turkey (especially 93% lean or leaner) is lower in saturated fat and calories than ground beef, making it a lighter alternative.

Q3: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A3: Yes. Add them directly to the skillet and cook off any excess moisture. Frozen bell peppers or zucchini work well.

Q4: How can I add more spice?
A4: Increase the chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. You can also sauté chopped jalapeño with the onion.

Q5: What’s the best pan to use?
A5: A large, nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best. Make sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients without overcrowding.

Q6: Can I use tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes?
A6: Yes, but reduce the amount slightly or let the sauce simmer longer to avoid a soupy consistency.

Q7: How long does it last in the fridge?
A7: Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to 4 days. It’s great for lunchboxes or meal-prep bowls.

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