Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Sizzle Your Taste Buds with a Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Ever had a meal that made your kitchen smell so good you could hardly wait to dig in? This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet combines the savory notes of turkey with the fresh crunch of zucchini, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Plus, it comes together in a single skillet, meaning you’ll have minimal dishes to wash. Can we get a hallelujah for easy cleanup?

Why Make This Recipe

Why will you love this one-pan wonder? Here are a few reasons:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something fast but delicious. Less time cooking means more time binge-watching your favorite show, am I right?
  • Healthy and Affordable: Ground turkey is a lean option that’s kind on your wallet, ensuring you’re fueling your body without breaking the bank.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The flavors are mild enough for picky eaters, but you can easily add some extra spice for a grown-up kick.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Peel and finely chop the onion.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  7. Cook the turkey for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no longer pink.
  8. Wash the zucchinis and trim the ends. Cut them in half lengthwise, then slice into half-moon shapes about 1/4 inch thick.
  9. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet with the turkey mixture.
  10. Stir the zucchini into the meat and cook for 4-5 minutes, until it starts to soften but still retains some firmness.
  11. Sprinkle the oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over the mixture.
  12. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring everything to combine.
  13. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  14. Once the zucchini is tender and the broth has reduced slightly, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet.
  15. Stir the cheese into the mixture until it melts and coats everything evenly.
  16. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
  17. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if you like!

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet (Overview)

Think of this recipe as a little dance in your kitchen. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic until they’re beautifully fragrant, then add your ground turkey. As it browns, the zucchini joins the party. Let it all simmer together, encouraging those flavors to mingle. Don’t forget the Parmesan at the end — it adds that irresistible creamy touch. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic; it elevates the whole dish from good to dynamite!

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Serve this skillet meal with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all those savory juices. The vibrant greens and golden turkey create a feast for the eyes and a smell that could make anyone drool. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of zucchini with each bite, and let the melted Parmesan ooze just a little.

How to Store Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you’ve got leftovers, they also freeze well for up to three months. To reheat, simply toss it back in the skillet or microwave until warmed through. Perfect for meal prep lovers — just make sure it’s at least semi-cool before you pop it in the freezer!

Tips to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

  1. Use fresh zucchini: The flavor and texture of fresh zucchini can’t be beat.
  2. Season to your taste: Feel free to up the spice level or introduce new flavors like paprika or cumin for another twist.
  3. Add other veggies: Bell peppers or spinach can blend beautifully with the turkey.
  4. Cook the turkey until it’s browned: That caramelization adds depth; don’t rush it!
  5. Use a non-stick skillet: It’ll make your cleanup a breeze!

Variation

Looking to switch things up? Try using ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter twist. Add some Italian seasoning for more complex flavors or throw in some cheese-filled tortellini for a hearty, all-in-one meal!

FAQs

Can I meal prep this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just store portions in airtight containers and reheat for quick meals.

Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes! Vegetable broth works great if you want a vegetarian twist.

How long can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet recipe with vibrant vegetables in a pan

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

A quick, healthy one-pan dish combining ground turkey and zucchini with savory spices for a family-friendly meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Healthy
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey Lean protein option.
  • 2 medium zucchinis Fresh, sliced.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking.
  • 1/2 medium onion Peeled and chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic Peeled and minced.

Spices and Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano For flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt To enhance flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes For a mild kick.

Finish and Serve

  • 1/4 cup chicken broth To keep the dish moist.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For creaminess.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Peel and finely chop the onion.
  • Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds.

Cooking

  • Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon.
  • Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully browned and no longer pink.
  • Wash the zucchinis, cut them in half lengthwise, then slice into half-moon shapes.
  • Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet with the turkey mixture.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes, until zucchini starts to soften.
  • Sprinkle the oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over the mixture.
  • Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  • Once zucchini is tender, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet.
  • Stir the cheese into the mixture until it melts.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.

Serving

  • Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use fresh zucchini for best results. Feel free to add other veggies or adjust spices to taste. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months.
Keyword Ground Turkey, Healthy Skillet, one-pan meal, Zucchini

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