This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a simple one-pan meal that’s tasty and quick to make. It features lean turkey and fresh zucchini, cooked together with spices for a satisfying dish.
I love how this dish is nutritious and ready in no time! It’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, clean-up is a breeze—just one skillet to wash! Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein for the dish. If you’re aiming for a leaner meal, turkey is great. However, feel free to substitute with lean ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch and color. If zucchini isn’t available, you can substitute with yellow squash or even bell peppers. They’ll provide a slightly different flavor but still taste delicious!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber to the dish. If you prefer, you can swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas. If you need a grain alternative, quinoa or lentils are also great options.
Corn: Use any corn options you have on hand. Fresh, frozen, or canned all work well. If you’re avoiding corn, diced bell peppers or peas can be a nice replacement.
Spices: I love adding chili powder and smoked paprika for depth, but feel free to adjust the spice level to your taste. You can even use taco seasoning as a quick substitute, which contains many of the same spices!
How Do I Cook the Zucchini Just Right?
Cooking zucchini takes some finesse to get it just right! You want it tender but still a bit firm. Here’s the best way:
- Cut the zucchini into uniform pieces, so they cook evenly.
- Add them into the skillet when the turkey is almost done cooking. This way, they’ll have about 5-7 minutes to cook through without becoming mushy.
- Stir occasionally, but don’t overcook! You want that little bite of crunch in each piece.
Trust me, finding that balance will elevate your dish!
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, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional: sliced jalapeño for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients (chopping and measuring), and the cooking will take approximately 20 minutes. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious meal for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent and soft. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds—it should smell amazing!
2. Brown the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink. You’re doing great!
3. Add Your Spices:
Once the turkey is cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the turkey is fully coated in the spices. This adds tons of flavor!
4. Mix in the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the chopped zucchini, black beans, corn, and diced tomato. Stir everything well to combine. The colors will be beautiful!
5. Cook Until Tender:
Let everything cook together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the zucchini to be tender but still have a little crunch for texture. Taste it and see if you need more seasoning!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness. Serve your skillet with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish, and don’t forget the jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Enjoy this flavorful, healthy, and easy one-pan meal packed with veggies and lean protein!
FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be used in place of turkey if you prefer its flavor. Just choose lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can make it ahead of time. Just cool it completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No problem! You can substitute zucchini with bell peppers, yellow squash, or even carrots. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
The leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. For reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
