This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a light and tasty dish! Packed with ground turkey, fresh zucchini, and a few simple seasonings, it’s perfect for a quick dinner.
You’ll love how colorful and healthy this meal is! I usually serve it with a side of rice or pasta, but honestly, it’s great on its own too. Who knew cooking could be this simple? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein and adds a great texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, lean ground chicken or beef work well too, but keep in mind that flavors will change slightly with different meats.
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchini are perfect for this dish. However, yellow squash can be a colorful substitute. If zucchini isn’t available, bell peppers or even chopped spinach can add lovely texture and nutrition.
Onion and Garlic: I love using yellow onions and fresh garlic for their strong flavor. You could use onion powder if you’re short on fresh onions, but the flavor won’t be the same. Shallots are also a nice alternative!
Red Bell Pepper: This is optional, but it adds a sweet crunch. You can swap it for green bell pepper if you prefer, or even use diced carrots or corn for a different sweetness and texture.
How Do You Cook Ground Turkey Without It Getting Dry?
Cooking ground turkey requires a little care to keep it juicy. Here are some tips to lock in moisture:
- Cook on medium heat to avoid over-browning. High heat can dry it out quickly.
- Don’t cook it too long! Ground turkey is done when it’s no longer pink but still slightly moist.
- Add a touch of broth or water while cooking if it seems too dry.
Following these tips will help you achieve a tender and tasty dish every time! Serve this skillet, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional for color and sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be made on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help to cook the onions and garlic evenly and enhance the flavors.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and the onions are soft.
3. Cook the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook it for around 6-8 minutes until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Make sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now, stir in the diced zucchinis and red bell pepper (if you’re using it). Cook everything together for another 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are tender but still have a little crunch.
5. Season the Skillet:
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes so the spices infuse into the dish.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked and flavorful, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot as is or over your choice of rice, quinoa, or pasta.
Enjoy your nutritious and easy one-pan meal! It’s a fantastic way to get a delicious dinner on the table quickly.
FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey?
Yes, you can use frozen ground turkey! Just make sure to thaw it completely first, preferably in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. This will ensure even cooking in your skillet.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender yet crisp!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help to moisten it if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey and vegetable mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving to enjoy the flavors fresh!
