Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 medium zucchinis; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1⁄2 medium onion; 2 cloves garlic; 1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika; 1⁄4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1⁄2 teaspoon salt; 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper; 1⁄4 cup chicken broth; 1⁄2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Author: Lora

Published: May 13, 2025

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Introduction to Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Welcome to the world of easy, flavorful dinners! If you’re anything like me, juggling family commitments and work can sometimes leave little time for elaborate meals. That’s where my Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet comes in, a quick solution for your busy days. This dish brings together healthy ground turkey and fresh zucchini in a way that’s not only delicious but super satisfying. Picture the melted cheese bubbling on top—doesn’t that just make your mouth water? Let’s dive into this recipe, so you can impress your loved ones and enjoy stress-free cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is the ultimate one-pan wonder! It comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weeknights. The combination of lean turkey and fresh zucchini keeps it healthy without sacrificing flavor. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy more quality time with your family. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients for Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is packed with wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s break them down, shall we?

Ground Turkey: Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for a healthy dinner.
Zucchini: Fresh and versatile, zucchini adds moisture and a lovely texture to the dish.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that starts us off with a flavorful base.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; I love using yellow or white onions for their mild flavor.
Garlic: Aromatic and savory, it makes everything better! Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Dried Oregano: A sprinkle of this herb brings a hint of earthiness to each bite.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat! Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten every flavor.
Chicken Broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses deliciousness. You can use low-sodium if that’s your preference.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! Melty and gooey, it creates that delightful topping.

Feel free to mix it up! You could toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients. Or, for a heartier meal, serve the skillet over rice or quinoa. All ingredient measurements are at the bottom of the article for easy printing, so you can get cooking in no time!

How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Making this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a breeze. I’ll walk you through the steps, so you can enjoy a healthy and delicious meal in no time. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Skillet

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. I love a good non-stick skillet here; it works wonders for easy cleanup.

Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil, swirling it around to coat the bottom. This creates a flavorful base for our dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

Now, it’s time to add 1 pound of ground turkey to the skillet. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, break it apart as it cooks.

Let it sizzle for about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally. You’re looking for that beautiful golden-brown color, with no pink remaining.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

While your turkey browns, chop half a medium onion into tiny pieces. This will keep things nice and uniform!

Once the turkey is cooked, toss the chopped onion into the skillet. Stir it in and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion turns soft and translucent. Next, peel and mince those 2 cloves of garlic, because we all know garlic makes everything better!

When the onion is ready, add in the minced garlic. Stir it for about 30 seconds until it releases that wonderful fragrance.

Step 4: Incorporate the Spices

Time to get a bit creative! Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

Stir well to coat everything in those aromatic spices. Trust me, your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!

Step 5: Stir in Zucchini and Chicken Broth

Now, grab those 2 medium zucchinis. Slice them in half lengthwise, and then cut each half into half-moon shapes.

Add the zucchini to the skillet, mixing it with the turkey and onions. Then, pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Cover the skillet and let it cook for 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll want the zucchini to become tender and release some of its moisture.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Once the zucchini is cooked to your liking, uncover the skillet and give everything a gentle stir to redistribute those delicious veggies.

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again, and let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. You want that cheese to melt and bubble up nicely.

Once it’s gloriously melted, remove the skillet from heat. There you have it, a delightful Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet, ready to be served!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
Adjust seasoning to taste; don’t hesitate to add more spices if you prefer.
Use a lid while cooking for softer zucchini—steam works wonders!
Experiment with additional veggies for more nutrients and flavor.
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream before serving.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great, but any large frying pan will do.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Use these for stirring and breaking up the turkey.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping veggies efficiently.
Measuring cups: Handy for measuring broth and cheese accurately.

Variations of Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Spicy Southwest Twist: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn for a Tex-Mex flair. A sprinkle of taco seasoning would complement this variation beautifully!
Mediterranean Style: Incorporate olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese for a refreshing Mediterranean spin. The combo of flavors will transport you straight to the coast!
Low-Carb Delight: Swap out zucchini for riced cauliflower for a lower-carb option. It still lends that wonderful veggie texture without the extra carbs.
Herb-Infused: Substitute the dried spices with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish in surprising ways!
Veggie-Packed: Add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for an extra nutrient boost. The more the merrier when it comes to colorful veggies!

Serving Suggestions for Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
A side of garlic bread pairs perfectly for those bread lovers!
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color.
Enjoy with a crisp salad for added freshness.
A glass of sparkling water with lemon complements the savory flavors beautifully.

FAQs about Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Here are some common questions I often hear about the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet. Let’s tackle them together!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve. It’s just as delicious the next day!

What can I substitute for ground turkey?
If turkey isn’t your thing, lean ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives work great. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Can I freeze the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How can I make it more spicy?
If you like a kick, toss in an extra dash of red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños. Experimenting with your spice preference can make it even more exciting!

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The combination of flavors is mild yet tasty. If your little ones are picky about veggies, consider blending the zucchini into the turkey mixture for a sneakier approach!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, not a chore. This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet embodies that sentiment perfectly. Each time I make it, I’m reminded that healthy can also be delicious. It’s a feel-good meal that brings my family together at the table. Watching my loved ones enjoy every bite while I savor the simplicity of preparation makes it worthwhile. Plus, it adapts wonderfully to whatever you have on hand, making it a canvas for creativity. So go ahead, relish in the flavors and enjoy the moments that come with sharing a home-cooked meal!