Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

Category: Dinner Ideas

This easy ground turkey and zucchini skillet is a quick meal that’s healthy and flavorful! With tender turkey and fresh zucchini, it’s a one-pan wonder that brings happiness to dinner time.

You know it’s a win when you can whip this up in about 30 minutes. Plus, it tastes great and leaves you feeling good. I love serving it with a side of rice or some crusty bread! 🍽️

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is a great choice for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use ground chicken or even ground beef if that’s what you have on hand.

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds nice texture and moisture. If zucchini isn’t available, you could use yellow squash or even bell peppers for a different flavor.

Canned Black Beans: These beans add protein and fiber. If you prefer, white beans or kidney beans work well too, providing a different color and taste.

Corn: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. If you want to skip corn, peas can be a good alternative with a bit of sweetness.

Spices: Cumin and chili powder bring warmth to the dish. Feel free to adjust these to your taste. If you like more heat, adding cayenne or using a spicy chili powder can give it a kick!

How Do You Cook the Perfect Ground Turkey?

Cooking ground turkey well is all about keeping it moist and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:

  • Start by heating olive oil in your skillet before adding the onion. This helps to develop a good base flavor.
  • Make sure to break up the turkey into small pieces while cooking. This ensures even browning and cooking.
  • Don’t rush the browning process; letting it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring helps achieve a nice sear.
  • Adding spices while cooking the turkey allows the flavors to soak in better. Coat the meat evenly!

These tips will help ensure you have perfectly cooked turkey that adds great taste to your skillet dish!

Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime (plus wedges for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: sliced jalapeño for garnish or extra heat

How Much Time Will You Need?

This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking, making the total time about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will help to sauté your veggies and brown the turkey nicely.

2. Sauté the Onions:

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This is where all the delicious flavors begin!

3. Add Garlic:

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!

4. Cook the Turkey:

Now it’s time to add the ground turkey. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

5. Season the Meat:

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure the turkey is nicely coated with these spices.

6. Add the Veggies:

Stir in the chopped zucchini, black beans, corn, and diced tomato. Cook while stirring occasionally until the zucchini is tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

7. Finish with Lime:

Once everything is cooked, squeeze some lime juice over the mixture and toss to combine for that refreshing kick.

8. Taste and Adjust:

Before serving, taste your skillet and feel free to adjust any seasonings if necessary.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños for a bit of extra heat if desired. Dig in and enjoy this colorful, protein-packed meal!

Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, pork, or even beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the fat content of the meat you choose.

What if I Have Leftover Zucchini?

No problem! You can easily throw in extra zucchini or other veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or carrots. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.

Can I Make This Skillet Ahead of Time?

Yes, it keeps well! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your meal later on!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment