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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

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

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Veggies:

  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean, preferably 93% lean / 7% fat)
  • 2 medium zucchini, diced (about 34 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)

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.

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