Name: Italian Ground Turkey & Veggie Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2½ lb ground turkey; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp oregano; ½ tsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp basil; 2 tsp garlic (minced or powder); ½ yellow onion, diced; 2 zucchini, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped; 1 tsp garlic salt; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp oregano; ½ tsp basil; ½ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp paprika; 6 oz tomato paste; ½ cup water; 1 tbsp olive oil; Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional); Garlic bread or rice, for serving (optional)

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Introduction

This Italian Ground Turkey & Veggie Skillet is a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with aromatic herbs and colorful vegetables, it’s easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family.

The image shows a white plate with a colorful cooked dish inside, featuring three main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of ground meat and sauce with small chunks of tomatoes and orange bell peppers, the middle layer has sliced cooked zucchini with green skin and soft texture, and the top layer is a piece of toasted bread with a golden, crispy surface placed leaning against the edge of the plate. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, and a woman’s hand is holding the plate from the bottom right corner. In the background, blurred slices of toasted bread are visible in a white bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2½ lb ground turkey
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp basil
2 tsp garlic
½ yellow onion
2 zucchini
2 bell peppers
1 tsp garlic salt
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp basil
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp paprika
6 oz tomato paste
½ cup water

Instructions

Step 1: In a large saucepan, brown the ground turkey over medium-high heat. Drain any excess water or fat. Add salt, pepper, chili powder, oregano, paprika, onion powder, basil, and garlic to the turkey, stirring well to combine. Remove the turkey from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the same pan. Add the chopped yellow onion and garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the chopped zucchini and bell peppers to the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then sprinkle in garlic salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, chili powder, and paprika. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until vegetables reach your preferred tenderness.
Step 4: Return the seasoned ground turkey to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the tomato paste and water, combining everything thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Serve the skillet hot, optionally topped with parmesan cheese if not dairy-free. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings.
Swap bell peppers for mushrooms or spinach for a different veggie mix.
Use ground chicken instead of turkey for a slightly different flavor.
To make it dairy-free, omit the parmesan topping or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed. This skillet also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a pan filled with a cooked mixture that has three main layers: the bottom layer is made up of browned ground meat with a crumbly texture, mixed evenly throughout; the middle layer contains small, soft pieces of orange carrots and green bell peppers, adding bright color and a slightly crunchy texture; the top layer is lightly sprinkled with shredded white cheese that is starting to melt, covering some parts of the meat and vegetables. The pan has a dark, textured surface with a honeycomb pattern. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just add them a bit earlier in the cooking process to allow enough time to thaw and cook through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can be portioned out for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week.