This tasty ground turkey and zucchini skillet is a quick and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy days. It’s packed with flavor and colorful veggies, making it both yummy and appealing!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish in one pan. Just cook the turkey, toss in the zucchini, and dinner is ready. Talk about a win-win! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein in the dish. If you prefer other meats, ground chicken or even beef works well. For a healthier option, you could try lentils or chickpeas to make it vegetarian.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a nice texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great substitute. Eggplant can also work, but make sure to cook it longer since it takes more time to soften.
Corn: I used fresh corn when in season, but frozen corn is just as good. If you’re avoiding corn, feel free to toss in diced bell peppers or peas for a different flavor.
Black Beans: Canned beans save time, but you can use cooked dried beans if preferred. If you want to avoid beans altogether, diced mushrooms can give a nice meaty texture.
Spices: The cumin, chili powder, and paprika are key for flavor! You can adjust these to your taste. For a different twist, try taco seasoning or even Italian herbs if you want a new flavor profile.
How Do I Cook the Turkey So It’s Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking ground turkey can be tricky since it can dry out easily. Here’s how to keep it juicy:
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the meat while ensuring it cooks through.
- Use a spatula to break the meat apart into smaller pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown evenly.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let it sit for a minute before stirring to get those nice brown bits, which add flavor.
By following these steps, your turkey will be flavorful and tender, making the whole dish shine!
Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for added spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy ground turkey and zucchini skillet recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. In just about 30 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious and wholesome meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it for about 6–8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink—this means it’s cooked through!
3. Add the Spices:
Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it cook for another minute to toast the spices, which will deepen the flavor of the dish.
4. Mix in the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the diced zucchini, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix everything well to ensure all the ingredients are combined.
5. Let it Simmer:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape.
6. Final Touches:
Take a moment to taste your skillet dish and adjust the seasoning if you want. Add more salt, pepper, or any other spices you enjoy!
7. Serve It Up:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve your delicious creation hot, with lime wedges on the side. If you like a bit of heat, offer sliced jalapeños too!
Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use a Different Protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or even pork. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or crumbled tofu to maintain the dish’s texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli would all work great in this skillet. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This skillet is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with rice, quinoa, or even tortillas for a complete meal. A side salad would also complement it nicely!
