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This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe is a simple, weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together in about 25 minutes — perfect for busy families and meal-prep days. The skillet cooks lean protein and tender zucchini in one pan for fast cleanup and big, comforting flavor. If you love zucchini-forward dinners, try this cheesy baked ziti with ground beef and zucchini for another crowd-pleasing option that stretches your veggies in a different direction.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe:
- One-pan dinner: minimal cleanup and fast cook time.
- Lean, protein-packed, and family-friendly.
- Easy to customize for picky eaters or meal prep.
- Bright, fresh veggies so the dish feels light but satisfying.
- Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients Needed
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
Vegetables & aromatics
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Dice the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and bell pepper along with 2 tsp Italian seasoning. Cook until the vegetables are tender yet still slightly crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe
- Spoon over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a hearty bowl.
- Serve with crusty bread or warm tortillas for easy weeknight tacos.
- Pair with a simple green salad and a squeeze of lemon for a bright contrast.
- Want another turkey-and-vegetable bake idea? Try this healthy sweet potato and ground turkey bake for a cozy, oven-baked option.
Tips for Success Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: give the turkey room to brown for better flavor and texture.
- Use medium heat for vegetables so they soften without turning mushy.
- If zucchini releases a lot of water, increase heat slightly and cook a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture.
- Mix in a splash of chicken broth or a teaspoon of tomato paste if you want a saucier finish.
- For meal prep, store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days — reheat gently to avoid drying out. For another guide on planning and safety, see this 5-day juice fast recipes and safety considerations article for general meal planning tips.
variation (if any)
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken, lean beef, or plant-based crumbles.
- Add 1 cup diced tomatoes or 1/2 cup marinara for a saucier skillet.
- Stir in 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan at the end for a cheesy finish.
- Make it spicy: add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the bell pepper.
What if my turkey is dry — how can I add moisture?
A quick fix is to stir in 2–4 tbsp chicken broth, a splash of olive oil, or a spoonful of tomato paste. Heat gently until incorporated so the meat stays tender.
Can I freeze this skillet meal?
Yes. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
How can I make this low-carb or keto-friendly?
Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles. Skip any starchy sides and add an extra pat of butter or cheese for added fat and flavor.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground turkey Choose a lean variety for a healthier dish.
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Dice the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and bell pepper along with Italian seasoning. Cook until the vegetables are tender yet still slightly crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
