This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a one-pan wonder! It’s packed with lean turkey and fresh zucchini, making it a healthy and tasty meal for busy days.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how quickly it comes together. Plus, clean-up is easy—just one pan! You can serve it over rice, and you have a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein is ideal for a healthy meal. If you want to reduce fat even further, ground chicken or turkey breast works great. Alternatively, you can use vegetarian options like crumbled tempeh or lentils for a meat-free version.
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are best for this dish. If you can’t find them, yellow squash or eggplant can be good substitutes. Just chop them similarly and watch cooking times as they may vary slightly.
Onion and Garlic: These add so much flavor to the skillet. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can be used instead, but fresh ingredients always pack the best punch! Shallots also make a nice substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: For those who prefer a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, you can use a dairy-free cheese that melts if you want to keep it creamy.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Turkey Without It Becoming Dry?
Cooking ground turkey can be tricky; if it gets overcooked, it can dry out. Here are tips to keep it moist:
- Cook on medium heat and avoid high heat which can cause it to toughen.
- Add seasoning early while cooking—this helps to lock in moisture from the start.
- Break it into smaller pieces, allowing even cooking.
- Don’t overcook it! Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
By following these steps, you’ll have flavorful, juicy turkey every time!
Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have it ready in roughly 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it starts to smell amazing!
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Allow it to cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Remember to season it with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and dried oregano for an extra burst of flavor!
3. Set Aside the Turkey:
Once the turkey is cooked, remove the mixture from the skillet and set it aside. This way, you’ll have room to cook the veggies next!
4. Sauté the Zucchini and Pepper:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced zucchini and red bell pepper (if using). Season with a little salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch to them.
5. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the turkey mixture to the skillet and gently stir everything together. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so that all the flavors meld perfectly.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh kick. If you wish, add the grated Parmesan cheese for some extra creaminess and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the skillet warm on its own or over rice, quinoa, or pasta. It’s a delightful, healthy meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy your healthy and simple ground turkey and zucchini skillet!
FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, lean beef, or even ground pork. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tempeh or lentils to maintain a similar texture and flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on how long each vegetable takes to become tender.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked skillet dish for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cool it thoroughly before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
