Name: Italian Ground Turkey & Veggie Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey (90% lean recommended); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium zucchinis, cut into quarters lengthwise; 2 bell peppers (any colors), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 tsp garlic salt; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

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Introduction

This Italian Ground Turkey & Veggie Skillet is a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal that’s quick to make and packed with vibrant vegetables. Lean ground turkey is seasoned with classic Italian herbs and combined with zucchini and bell peppers for a satisfying, nutrient-rich dish.

A white plate holds a serving of cooked ground meat mixed with sliced green zucchini, small pieces of orange bell pepper, and bits of onion, all coated in a reddish sauce, creating a colorful and textured mix at the center bottom of the plate. Behind this, leaning against the food, is a single toasted slice of bread with a golden-brown, crispy surface and a layer of melted cheese visible on top. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there is a white plate with two more slices of toasted bread, slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground turkey (90% lean recommended)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried basil
1 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced (or to taste)
1 zucchini, cut into quarters
2 bell peppers, any color, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup water
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp garlic powder
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat or water. Season the turkey with chili powder, oregano, paprika, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then remove the turkey from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Add olive oil to the same skillet, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 3 minutes, or until fragrant and translucent.
Step 3: Add the zucchini and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then sprinkle garlic salt, garlic powder, oregano, basil, chili powder, and paprika over the veggies. Continue cooking until the vegetables reach your desired tenderness, approximately 5 more minutes.
Step 4: Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet. Lower the heat, then stir in the tomato paste and water. Adjust seasoning with additional garlic salt or herbs as desired. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Serve the skillet hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs well with garlic bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if preferred.
Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Include mushrooms or spinach for additional vegetables.
For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a cooked dish in a pan, consisting of minced meat that is light brown and crumbly, mixed with pieces of sautéed zucchini slices that are green and soft, small diced orange and yellow bell peppers, and finely chopped onions. The ingredients are coated in a slightly thick reddish sauce and sprinkled with small shreds of white grated cheese. The pan has a dark, textured interior with a honeycomb pattern, and the food looks moist and well-blended. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat?

Yes, ground chicken or beef can be used as an alternative to ground turkey. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or increase the amount of chili powder in the seasoning mix to suit your heat preference.