This Quick Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Dinner is full of flavor and super easy to whip up! It combines lean turkey with fresh zucchini for a healthy, tasty meal.
On busy nights, this is my go-to! Just a one-pan wonder that keeps cleanup simple. Plus, I love how colorful it looks on the plate—almost too pretty to eat! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat is perfect for a healthier meal. If you’re looking for a substitute, ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives work well. For a richer flavor, you could use ground beef or pork, but be mindful of the fat content.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential here, but if you’re in a pinch, yellow squash or bell peppers can be great alternatives. They add a nice pop of color and flavor!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient, but you can swap them for kidney beans, pinto beans, or cooked lentils for a different twist. If you’re avoiding beans, feel free to add more veggies instead!
Corn: You can use fresh corn, frozen, or canned. If corn isn’t available, try adding diced carrots or peas for a different texture and sweetness.
Spices: The cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika add depth to the dish. If you prefer more heat, add cayenne pepper or use a spicy taco seasoning mix!
How Do I Get the Turkey to Brown Perfectly?
Getting that nice brown color on your turkey is key to adding flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the turkey. It should sizzle when it hits the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can make the turkey steam instead of browning. If your skillet is small, cook it in batches.
- Use a spatula to break up the turkey as it cooks, ensuring it all gets an even sear.
By focusing on these steps, your turkey will have a great texture and flavor in your skillet dinner!
Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Dinner
Ingredients:
- 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)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Sliced jalapeño (optional, for extra heat)
Estimated Time:
This delicious skillet dinner will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3 minutes. This will add a wonderful flavor base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Turkey:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the ground turkey. Break it apart using a spatula and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
3. Mix in the Veggies:
Stir in the chopped zucchini, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still has a little crispness, about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the dish fresh and vibrant!
4. Final Touches:
Taste your skillet dinner and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you love a bit of heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños.
5. Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot, accompanied by lime wedges for a zesty kick. This meal pairs well on its own or with rice or tortillas.
Enjoy your colorful, healthy, and easy skillet dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for turkey and can give you a similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as ground chicken may cook a bit faster.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute the chili powder with a spicier blend or add a splash of hot sauce while cooking!
Can I Prep This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance! Chop the vegetables and cook the turkey mixture, then refrigerate it. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through—this can save you time on busy weeknights!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months; just thaw completely before reheating.
