Ingredients for Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides the initial base for sautéing, ensuring the turkey browns beautifully and vegetables soften. Use extra virgin for robust flavor.
• 1 pound lean ground turkey: The star lean protein foundation of this skillet. Essential for a healthy, satisfying meal. Choose 93/7% ground turkey for best flavor.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Forms the aromatic base, adding fundamental savory sweetness and depth. Dice finely for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the skillet with essential pungent, savory flavor. Always use fresh minced garlic for the most impactful, delicious results.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds vibrant color and mild, sweet crunch, enhancing the skillet’s visual appeal and flavor complexity. Red bell pepper is sweetest.
• 2 medium zucchini, chopped into ½-inch pieces: The essential tender vegetable, absorbing flavors beautifully. Chop into ½-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and avoid mushiness.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds crucial moisture, tangy acidity, and body to form a savory sauce base. Undrained tomatoes contribute essential liquid.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Provides essential liquid for simmering, adding savory depth and preventing the skillet ingredients from sticking. Use low-sodium broth.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Deepens the umami and richness of the sauce with concentrated tomato flavor. Sauté briefly to enhance its savory notes.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: An essential umami booster, adding complex, savory depth that truly elevates the dish. A little goes a long way.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Basic seasoning that enhances and balances all other flavors in the skillet. Adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild spice and warmth, providing a subtle peppery finish to the savory dish. Freshly ground pepper offers the best aroma.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the skillet with classic savory Mediterranean notes, providing an aromatic herbal foundation. Rub between palms to release aromas.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh garnish that adds brightness, vibrant color, and a herbaceous finish. Stir in at the very end for maximum impact.
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, for serving: Adds a salty, nutty, cheesy finish, enhancing the savory skillet. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and tastes best.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Brown Turkey:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. This forms the delicious base for your Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet.

Sauté Aromatics:

Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add diced yellow onion and red bell pepper to the turkey, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic for one minute until fragrant, but don’t burn it.

Simmer Flavors:

Stir in the chopped zucchini, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring all ingredients are well combined for this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet.

Cook Skillet:

Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Cook until the zucchini is tender-crisp and the sauce has slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Avoid overcooking the zucchini for best texture.

Finish Dish:

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley, allowing its vibrant flavor to meld. Give everything a final gentle mix. Your savory Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is almost ready to serve!

Serve Warm:

Ladle the comforting Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet into individual bowls. Garnish generously with shredded Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your easy weeknight meal!

How to Store Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

To store your Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Beyond that, zucchini can become too soft, and the dish loses its fresh appeal. Always check for any off-smells or discoloration before reheating to avoid spoilage.

For make-ahead convenience, chop your vegetables a day in advance, storing them separately. Don’t pre-mix them, or you’ll end up with watery zucchini – a mistake I’ve made! Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What to Serve with Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Serve this comforting Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet warm directly from the pan. For a vibrant presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. It’s perfect to pair with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, or a simple green salad. You’ll enjoy every bite.

My favorite way to enjoy this skillet is over fluffy quinoa or brown rice. The grains perfectly absorb the rich, savory juices, creating a truly satisfying and complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent mushy zucchini when making this skillet dish?

To prevent mushy zucchini, cook until just tender-crisp, not soft. Overcooking makes it watery, a mistake I’ve made. Keep an eye on it during simmering and remove it from heat promptly.

→ Can I use ground beef instead of turkey in this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for turkey. Choose a lean ground beef (85-90%) to keep it similar. You might need to drain more fat after browning, as I learned from experience.

→ Can I freeze this Quick & Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet for later?

Freezing isn’t ideal for this skillet. Zucchini can become very soft and watery upon thawing, losing its texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days, as I discovered through soggy experiments.

→ How long can I store leftover ground turkey and zucchini in the fridge?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Beyond that, the zucchini often loses its appeal and texture. Always check for freshness before reheating, trust me.

→ Can I make this skillet suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, this skillet can easily be gluten-free. Ensure your chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat. It’s a simple swap for a delicious, worry-free meal.