Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s simple to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground turkey (93% lean)
• 2 medium zucchini (about 300g), sliced thin
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prep your ingredients by slicing the zucchini into thin half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Step 4: Add ground turkey to the skillet, spreading it out. Let it cook without stirring for 2 minutes to brown, then stir and break up the meat. Cook until no pink remains and turkey is browned, about 6-8 minutes total.
5. Step 5: Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the tomato paste darkens slightly.
6. Step 6: Add zucchini slices and pour chicken broth over the mixture. Stir to combine, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through.
7. Step 7: Remove the lid and cook uncovered for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon zest if using before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a different flavor, try substituting ground chicken or lean beef for the turkey.
• Add bell peppers or mushrooms along with zucchini for extra veggies and texture.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta to make it a more filling meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. If the mixture dries out when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini instead of fresh?

Frozen zucchini can be used but may release more water, so cook uncovered a little longer to evaporate excess moisture and avoid a watery dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your chicken broth and tomato paste don’t contain any gluten additives.

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 535 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A quick and flavorful ground turkey and zucchini skillet recipe, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Lean ground turkey is browned and simmered with fresh zucchini, onions, garlic, and a touch of tomato paste and Italian seasoning, resulting in a hearty, low-calorie dish bursting with savory, fresh flavors. Optional Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest add a bright finishing touch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground turkey (93% lean)
• 2 medium zucchini (about 300g), sliced thin
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnishes

• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: Slice the zucchini into thin half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves to prepare for cooking.
2. Sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Let it cook without stirring for 2 minutes to allow browning. Then stir and break up the meat. Continue cooking until no pink remains and turkey is browned, about 6-8 minutes total.
5. Season mixture: Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the tomato paste darkens slightly to develop deeper flavor.
6. Cook zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini and pour the chicken broth over the mixture. Stir to combine, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
7. Evaporate excess liquid: Remove the lid and cook uncovered for 1-2 minutes to evaporate any remaining liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Finish and serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and lemon zest if using for a fresh and flavorful finish. Serve warm.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
• For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth and limit added salt.
• Optional Parmesan, parsley, and lemon zest add brightness but can be left out for a dairy-free or simpler version.
• Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to make it a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: ground turkey skillet, zucchini recipe, healthy turkey dinner, quick skillet dinner, low fat turkey recipe, easy weeknight meal