This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal is a quick and tasty dish you’ll love! With ground turkey, fresh zucchini, and simple spices, it’s both healthy and delicious.
You only need one pan, which means less cleanup—yay for that! I like to serve it with rice or pasta for a filling meal that won’t take forever to make. It’s a weeknight winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is a lean option that’s great for healthier meals. If you’re looking for a substitute, ground chicken or even ground beef will work well, though they may have a richer flavor.
Zucchini: The star of this dish! If you don’t have zucchini, try using yellow squash or even eggplant. They’ll add their own unique taste and texture.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a flavor base. If you’re out of fresh onion, onion powder can work in a pinch. For garlic, garlic powder is a decent alternative, just remember to reduce the amount.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs gives depth to the dish. You can make your own blend with equal parts dried oregano, basil, and thyme if you’re out!
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice touch at the end. If you don’t have Parmesan, pecorino or a sprinkle of mozzarella can also add creaminess.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Zucchini Without Making It Soggy?
Cooking zucchini can be tricky since it tends to release water. Here are some tips to keep it crisp:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the zucchini room to cook evenly.
- Cook on medium-high heat so it gets browned quickly, sealing in the flavor.
- Try not to overcook it—just a few minutes until tender but still slightly firm is best.
Your zucchini will stay vibrant and retain that lovely crunch, making your dish even more enjoyable!
Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal
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 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its delicious aroma!
2. Cooking the Ground Turkey:
Now it’s time to add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring and cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure there are no pink spots left in the turkey.
3. Seasoning the Turkey:
Once the turkey is cooked, season it with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together so that the meat is well-coated with the spices and vegetables. This will help bring out all the wonderful flavors.
4. Adding the Zucchini and Bell Pepper:
Next, toss in the diced zucchini and red bell pepper (if you’re using it). Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still has a slight crunch. This step is key for keeping that fresh texture!
5. Final Touches:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When it’s just right, remove the skillet from heat. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top while it’s still hot so it melts a bit.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm on its own or with a side of rice, pasta, or some crusty bread for a hearty meal. Enjoy your delicious and healthy skillet dish!
FAQs for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Meal
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even lean ground beef can work as great substitutes. Just keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor and fat content slightly.
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! However, be sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture to avoid making the dish watery. Sauté it for a shorter time since it’s already pre-cooked.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is cooked properly but still tender.
