ne-Pan Zucchini & Ground Turkey Skillet (Quick, Fresh & Loaded with Flavor)

If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with protein, veggies, and serious flavor, this Zucchini & Ground Turkey Skillet is about to be your new best friend. It’s fresh, healthy, and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, you only need one pan—because who likes washing dishes after dinner?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple – No fancy ingredients or complicated steps.
• Healthy & Filling – Lean ground turkey + fresh zucchini = a meal that satisfies.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients you can find anywhere in the U.S.
• Meal-Prep Approved – Tastes just as good the next day (hello, easy lunch).

Tips for the Best Skillet Dinner

✅ Use the Right Pan – A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron) gives the best sear on the turkey and veggies.

✅ Don’t Overcook the Zucchini – It should be tender but not mushy. Nobody wants zucchini soup in their skillet.

✅ Make It Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like more heat.

✅ Switch Up the Cheese – Parmesan is classic, but feta or goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy twist.

✅ Low-Carb Option – Skip the rice and serve it over cauliflower rice or just enjoy it as-is!

How to Store & Reheat

This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep!

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.

Why This Recipe Works

This skillet meal is a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and fresh flavors. The lean turkey keeps it light, while the zucchini and peppers add color and crunch. The chicken broth and seasonings tie everything together, creating a dish that’s both hearty and healthy.

Best of all? It’s easy, quick, and delicious. One bite, and you’ll see why this Zucchini & Ground Turkey Skillet is a must-try dinner for busy weeknights.

Enjoy!

ne-Pan Zucchini & Ground Turkey Skillet (Quick, Fresh & Loaded with Flavor)

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• Author: Chelsea Catalan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: 4 servings
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Healthy, Low-Carb

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Description

• A quick and easy one-pan meal made with lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, bell peppers, and simple spices. This healthy, high-protein dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep

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Ingredients

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Protein & Veggies:

• 1 lb ground turkey (lean, preferably 93% lean / 7% fat)
• 2 medium zucchini, diced (about 3–4 cups)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced

Seasoning & Flavor:

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a little smoky kick)
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Garnishes (optional, but highly recommended):

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta
• Avocado slices (for a creamy contrast)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
3. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Transfer the turkey to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook for 2 minutes until softened.
2. Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

1. Toss in the red and green bell peppers and stir for 2 minutes.
2. Add the zucchini and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but are still slightly firm.

Step 4: Bring Back the Turkey & Season It

1. Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet.
2. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes, and a little more salt & pepper.
3. Stir everything together to coat the turkey and veggies in those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Simmer for Extra Flavor

1. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
2. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 1 more minute—just enough for them to soften slightly without turning mushy.

Step 6: Final Touches & Serve

1. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. If you like a little extra richness, grate some Parmesan or crumble some feta on top.
3. Serve hot with brown rice, quinoa, or warm crusty bread.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
• You can swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef.
• Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• If you like spice, add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg