Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Looking for a quick, healthy, and mouthwatering dinner idea that’s packed with protein and loaded with veggies? Say hello to the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet – the perfect one-pan meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or simply looking for a low-carb dinner option, this skillet recipe checks all the boxes.
This simple yet hearty dish features lean ground turkey, tender zucchini, and a medley of wholesome ingredients that blend into a savory, satisfying meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes. It’s low in calories, rich in protein, gluten-free, and can be made keto-friendly with a few tweaks.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons this ground turkey and zucchini skillet will become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation:
- One-Pan Simplicity: Everything cooks in a single skillet – less mess, less stress.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and essential vitamins.
- Flavorful and Versatile: A bold blend of herbs and spices makes this anything but boring.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for days and reheats beautifully – perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Customizable: Add cheese, grains, extra veggies, or spice it up to fit your preferences.
- Low-Carb and Keto Options: Naturally low in carbs and easy to modify for stricter diets.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for the perfect Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet (Serves 4):
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor or Texture
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for a cheesy top)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos (for umami depth)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (if you want to serve it over grains)
How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Wash and dice your zucchini, chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and easy.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and break it up with a spatula.
- Cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
- Season with salt, pepper, and half the paprika and cumin.
- Remove turkey from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in bell pepper and garlic; cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Add zucchini and sauté for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender but not mushy.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Return the cooked turkey to the skillet.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, the remaining paprika and cumin, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix well and let simmer for 5–10 minutes to let the flavours marry.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5 (Optional): Make It Cheesy
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover for 2 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm!
Pro Tips & Variations
- Low-Carb/Keto Option: Skip the tomato paste and use fresh tomatoes. Avoid adding rice or grains.
- Bulk It Up: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or cauliflower rice.
- Make It Spicy: Add jalapeños or more red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Vitamin A | 25% DV |
| Vitamin C | 60% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
Conclusion
In today’s busy world, we all crave meals that are quick to make, healthy to eat, and satisfying enough to keep us going. The Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet isn’t just a recipe – it’s a smart solution for modern cooking. It saves you time with minimal prep and cleanup, supports your nutrition goals with lean protein and fresh vegetables, and pleases even the pickiest eaters with bold, balanced flavour.
This dish is the perfect blend of convenience and health. Whether you’re a home cook looking to eat clean, a parent needing a weeknight lifesaver, or someone focused on fitness-friendly recipes, this skillet delivers every time.