25-Minute Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Looking for a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying?

This ground turkey and zucchini skillet checks all the boxes!

It’s quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor – perfect for those hectic weeknights.

This dish is a powerhouse of nutrition and taste. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, one-skillet wonder!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy and healthy skillet meal, here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground turkey: A lean source of protein that’s perfect for quick meals.
• Zucchini: Fresh and mild, zucchini adds both texture and nutrients.
• Seasonings: Garlic, onion, paprika, and optional chili flakes for a touch of heat.
• Optional extras: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

This recipe is as easy as it gets! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious skillet meal:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing your zucchini into bite-sized pieces and mincing your garlic and onion. These prep steps will ensure everything cooks quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Zucchini and Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant and softened. Add the zucchini and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to soften but still has some bite to it.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Once the zucchini is cooked to your liking, add the cooked turkey back into the skillet. Season with paprika, salt, pepper, and any other spices you love. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for a couple of minutes. Optional: add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for extra flavor!

Tips for the Perfect Skillet Meal

To make sure your ground turkey and zucchini skillet turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a heavy-bottom skillet: This ensures even heat distribution and prevents food from sticking or burning.
• Don’t overcook the zucchini: Zucchini cooks quickly, and you want it to retain some texture. Avoid overcooking it to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Customize the flavors: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or throw in some chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color. You can even toss in a bit of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs to elevate the dish.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This skillet is super versatile! Here are some variations and ideas to make it your own:

• Variations: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet for extra veggies and flavor.
• Serving Ideas: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.
• Low-Carb Option: Enjoy the dish as-is for a light and low-carb meal, or pair it with a fresh salad for a full meal.

Storing and Reheating

This ground turkey and zucchini skillet makes great leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storage: Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to eat!

Can I use other types of meat in this skillet?

Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian protein like lentils or tofu.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

25-Minute Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining lean ground turkey with tender zucchini and aromatic spices, this one-pan meal is easy to make and full of nutrients.

With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes of cook time, it’s a deliciously satisfying dinner option.

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 275 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground turkey lean
• 2 medium zucchinis diced
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ tsp chili flakes optional, for a bit of heat
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for garnish, optional
• Lemon wedges optional, for serving

Instructions

 

Prep Your Ingredients

• Start by dicing your zucchini into bite-sized pieces and mincing your garlic and onion. These prep steps will ensure everything cooks quickly and evenly.

Cook the Ground Turkey

• In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the Zucchini and Aromatics

• In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant and softened. Add the zucchini and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to soften but still has some bite to it.

Combine and Season

• Once the zucchini is cooked to your liking, add the cooked turkey back into the skillet. Season with paprika, salt, pepper, and any other spices you love. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for a couple of minutes. Optional: add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for extra flavor!

Keyword Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet