This Quick Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a tasty, one-pan meal! With juicy ground turkey and fresh zucchini, it’s both easy to make and healthy.
I love how this dish comes together in no time. Just cook the turkey, add zucchini, and season! Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of your dish! Ground turkey is lean and healthy. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute with ground chicken or even lean beef.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture and mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, consider using yellow squash or bell peppers as a colorful alternative.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, use onion powder (about 1 tsp) instead, but fresh onion is always best for flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This optional ingredient adds a nice cheesy touch. You can replace it with any hard cheese like Pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Cook Ground Turkey without Getting it Dry?
The key to juicy ground turkey is to not overcook it! Here’s how to ensure it stays moist:
- Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the exterior while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Stir frequently so it cooks evenly.
- Leave some pink when you first remove it from the heat, as it will continue to cook in the residual heat while you add in the zucchini.
By following these tips, you’ll have tender and flavorful turkey in no time! Plus, adding the zucchini helps keep moisture in the dish, balancing everything perfectly.
Quick Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have a delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. The smell will start to fill your kitchen, making it quite inviting!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
3. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Now it’s time to add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Use a spoon to stir it around occasionally for even cooking.
4. Season It Up:
Season the turkey with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Give everything a good mix so the flavors combine nicely.
5. Add the Zucchini:
Finally, toss in the diced zucchini, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but still retains a slight crunch. This keeps the dish vibrant and delicious!
6. Final Touches:
Once everything is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if you’d like to add a touch of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this scrumptious skillet dish hot! It’s fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with rice or some crusty bread for a hearty meal. Enjoy!
FAQ About Quick Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use Other Ground Meats?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or even ground pork. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you’re looking to amp up the flavor, consider adding additional spices like paprika, cumin, or a splash of soy sauce during cooking. You can also incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze this skillet dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
