Name: Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 medium zucchinis (diced); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re seeking a nourishing, quick, and flavor-packed one-pan meal, the Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe is about to become a weeknight hero in your kitchen. With tender ground turkey, vibrant zucchini, sweet bell pepper, and a whisper of aromatic Italian seasoning, this skillet comes together in a flash and never fails to impress—whether you’re craving a low-carb dinner or a colorful lunch that reheats like a dream. Balanced, hearty, and brightened up with a final flourish of Parmesan and fresh parsley, this recipe keeps things simple and satisfying without skimping on taste.

Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of honest, everyday ingredients, this recipe proves that easy doesn’t ever have to be boring. Each element adds its own special touch, from texture to bold flavor or pops of color, making the Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe a true weeknight winner.

Ground turkey: Lean and mild, it’s a healthy and protein-rich base that soaks up all those savory spices.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps all the flavors meld together while keeping things heart-healthy.
Onion: Provides aromatic sweetness and depth to the skillet, forming the flavor foundation.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings sharp, savory undertones that uplift every bite.
Zucchini: Tender and juicy, zucchini adds bulk, color, and subtle garden-fresh flavor.
Red bell pepper: Pops of color and a touch of sweetness make the dish irresistibly vibrant.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs gives the recipe classic, comforting notes.
Paprika: A smoky, warm spice that deepens the overall flavor profile.
Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer and bringing the ingredients to life.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity to the finished skillet.
Parmesan cheese (optional): For a savory, nutty finish that melts right in—use it for extra comfort!
Chopped fresh parsley: A garnish that adds freshness and a hint of color to the final dish.

How to Make Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, letting it soften and turn fragrant. Next, stir in the garlic and cook just until it releases its aroma—about 30 seconds. This step builds a delicious base and sets up your Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe for full-bodied flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Crank up the flavor by adding ground turkey straight to the sizzling aromatics. Break it up with your spoon or spatula and let it brown evenly, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until no pink remains. This lean protein brings real substance to the dish and soaks up all those savory notes as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Veggies and Seasoning

Now toss in the diced zucchini and chopped red bell pepper, pouring in all that gorgeous color and crunch. Sprinkle over the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, keeping those veggies just tender—not mushy. The skillet will smell amazing and look even better.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

If you’re going for extra comfort, now’s the moment to sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s melty and melded into the skillet. Off the heat, shower the Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe with fresh parsley for a lively, fresh finish that pops against the warm, savory backdrop.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

This dish loves a finishing touch! After scooping the skillet onto plates, try a dusting of extra Parmesan, more fresh parsley, or even a few crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. The garnish adds not just flavor but a hint of elegance that makes the whole meal feel a little more special.

Side Dishes

While this recipe stands strong on its own (especially for a low-carb meal), you can serve it over brown rice, fluffy quinoa, or even buttery mashed potatoes for heartier appetites. Crusty bread on the side is fantastic for soaking up all those savory juices, or opt for a light green salad if you want to keep things ultra fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, stuff leftovers into warm pita pockets, wrap in crisp lettuce cups, or use as a filling for meal-prep burrito bowls. The Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe is remarkably versatile, so don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine—it’s just as at home at a casual weeknight dinner as it is packed up for lunch on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe stores beautifully! Transfer any extras to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it an ideal meal-prep solution for busy weeks.

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen, though the zucchini may soften further upon reheating. Let the skillet cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. For best texture, use within two months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave in 30-second bursts until hot, or return the skillet to the stovetop and heat over low, stirring often. If things look a little dry, a splash of water or broth will bring it right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in the Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe and yields a similarly light and protein-packed result. You could even try lean ground beef for a heartier, richer flavor profile.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative—everything else in the Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe is naturally dairy-free, so you won’t miss out on the creamy, savory goodness.

What other vegetables can I add?

This skillet is a fantastic way to use up odds and ends from the fridge. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, diced tomatoes, or even corn for extra sweetness and color. The recipe is as flexible as you are!

Can I make it saucier?

Yes! If you like more sauce, stir in a small can of diced tomatoes or a splash of chicken or vegetable broth along with the veggies. It creates a delightful juiciness and helps all the flavors marry together.

Is it suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely—this Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe is practically made for meal prep. Portion into individual containers and store in the fridge or freezer for grab-and-go lunches or effortless dinners anytime.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that comes together quickly, tastes fantastic, and leaves you with a happy, satisfied appetite. I hope you’ll give this Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe a spot in your weekly rotation—it just might become your new favorite way to bring everyone to the table with big flavor and minimal fuss!

Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe

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4.6 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with lean protein and veggies, it’s a healthy and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Turkey Skillet:

1 pound ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 medium zucchinis (diced)
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional:

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Heat the Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion, cook for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Cook Turkey: Add ground turkey, cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Veggies and Seasoning: Stir in zucchini, bell pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.