This easy ground turkey and zucchini skillet meal is a healthy and tasty option for dinner. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a colorful dish that is both filling and delicious!
If you’re like me and love quick meals, this one is perfect. I appreciate how it uses one pan and comes together in no time. Plus, it’s great for sneaking in those veggies! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat is perfect for a healthy meal. If you prefer a different protein, you can use ground chicken or lean beef. For a vegetarian option, try swapping in lentils or crumbled tofu. They both work well here!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a nice texture. If you can’t find it, yellow squash works too! For a low-carb alternative, try using cauliflower rice instead, just add it to the skillet a bit later in the cooking process.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If you don’t have them, you can use regular tomatoes chopped into small pieces. Canned diced tomatoes would also work but may change the dish’s texture slightly.
Italian Seasoning: This blend brings great flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs are even better, just chop and add at the end for a fresh punch.
How Do You Ensure the Ground Turkey Is Cooked Properly?
Cooking ground turkey evenly is key for a safe and tasty dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown nicely.
- Cook it until it reaches a temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one!
- Stir it often to avoid any sticking, which can help it cook evenly.
- Don’t rush this step; aim for about 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked turkey in no time!
Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano/basil mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick meal that delivers big flavors in no time at all!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
First, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté but not smoking. This step sets the stage for a tasty dish!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This will create a great base for your flavors!
3. Brown the Ground Turkey:
Next, add in the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to help it brown evenly. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked with no pink remaining. This is the hearty protein of your meal!
4. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook them for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften. This adds both color and nutrients to your dish!
5. Finish with Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Time to add those cherry tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. If you like a bit of spice, toss in the red pepper flakes as well. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened. This is where the magic happens!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed to make it just right for your palate. It’s your meal, so make it perfect!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked and seasoned to your liking, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a lovely finishing touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve this warm skillet meal by itself or alongside some rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. It’s a versatile and fulfilling dish that everyone will love!
Enjoy your nutritious one-pan Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey?
Yes, you can use frozen ground turkey! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quicker option. Be sure to drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet for browning.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Carbs?
If you’re looking to reduce the carbs, simply omit the cherry tomatoes or use a lower-carb vegetable, such as cauliflower. You can also skip any grains served on the side and enjoy it as a standalone meal!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the dish seems dry, adding a splash of broth or water can help refresh it!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, yellow squash works great! For a different texture, you could try bell peppers or even spinach, but add the spinach towards the end to avoid overcooking it.
