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Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

4.4 from 69 reviews

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan meal. Featuring lean ground turkey, fresh zucchinis, aromatic garlic and onion, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner packed with protein and veggies. The dish is seasoned with oregano and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, all simmered together in chicken broth for a tender, well-blended flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1/2 medium onion
  • 2 cloves garlic

Seasonings and Liquids

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
  2. Chop the onion: Peel and finely chop the half onion to ensure it cooks evenly and releases its flavor.
  3. Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Prepare garlic: Peel and finely mince the two garlic cloves to maximize their flavor release.
  5. Cook garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Add ground turkey: Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking.
  7. Brown the turkey: Cook the turkey for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink in the center.
  8. Prepare zucchini: While the turkey cooks, wash the zucchinis, trim the ends, and cut each in half lengthwise.
  9. Slice zucchini: Cut each half into half-moon shapes approximately 1/4 inch thick for even cooking.
  10. Add zucchini to skillet: Stir the sliced zucchini into the browned turkey mixture.
  11. Cook zucchini: Sauté the mixture for 4-5 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften but still retains some firmness.
  12. Season: Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes evenly over the skillet contents.
  13. Add broth and combine: Pour chicken broth into the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  14. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to meld and broth to reduce slightly.
  15. Add cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet and stir until it melts and evenly coats the turkey and zucchini.
  16. Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
  17. Serve: Serve the dish immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground chicken or lean ground beef for turkey if preferred.
  • For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a bit more Parmesan cheese.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level to your liking.
  • Serve over rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: ground turkey skillet, turkey zucchini recipe, healthy turkey skillet, low fat dinner, zucchini skillet