Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
This Ground Turkey and Zucchini skillet is packed with savory spices, fresh veggies, and lean protein—making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a light, protein-rich dish, this skillet delivers. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful skillet:
- 1 lb Ground Turkey and Zucchini (lean or regular)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Substitutions: Swap zucchini for bell peppers or mushrooms. Use ground chicken instead of turkey for a milder taste.
Timing
This recipe is a true time-saver! Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Compared to traditional stir-fries, this dish cooks faster thanks to the quick sautéing method. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Dice the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Mince the garlic. Having everything prepped ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
Add the Ground Turkey and Zucchini to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the turkey evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
Toss in the zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still crisp.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with a side of quinoa or crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
This dish is a nutritional powerhouse! Here’s a breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 10g
Rich in vitamins A, C, and potassium, this skillet supports immune health and muscle recovery.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Looking to make this even healthier? Try these swaps:
- Use Ground Turkey and Zucchini with 93% lean protein for fewer calories.
- Add spinach or kale for extra fiber.
- Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet is incredibly versatile! Here’s how to enjoy it:
- Over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- As a filling for whole-wheat wraps.
- Topped with a fried egg for extra protein.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure perfect results, steer clear of these pitfalls:
- Overcooking the zucchini: It turns mushy. Sauté just until tender.
- Skipping the spices: They add depth of flavor.
- Using too much oil: Stick to 1 tbsp for a lighter dish.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
For meal prep, portion into containers with a side of grains or salad for easy grab-and-go meals.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey and Zucchini skillet is a delicious, nutritious, and time-saving meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking on the fly, this recipe delivers big on flavor and health benefits.
Ready to try it? Tag us on social media with your creations or share your favorite tweaks in the comments below! For more healthy meal ideas, explore our collection of healthy recipes.
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Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Course: Healthy Dessert Recipes4
servings10
minutes30
minutes220
kcalIngredients
1 lb Ground Turkey and Zucchini (lean or regular)
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Dice the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Mince the garlic. Having everything prepped ensures a smooth cooking process.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
- Add the Ground Turkey and Zucchini to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the turkey evenly.
- Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
- Toss in the zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still crisp.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with a side of quinoa or crusty bread.