Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
why make this recipe
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a quick and healthy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines lean ground turkey with fresh zucchini, making it a nutritious choice. This dish is packed with flavor thanks to simple seasonings and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone in the family!
how to make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet and let it heat up for about 1 minute.
- Once the oil is hot, add the ground turkey to the skillet.
- Break the turkey apart using a spatula or spoon and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- While the turkey is cooking, wash the zucchinis and trim off both ends.
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise, then cut them into half-moon shapes, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet with the cooked turkey.
- Stir to combine the turkey and zucchini evenly.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika over the mixture.
- Stir the mixture again to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Cook the turkey and zucchini mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini becomes tender but still slightly crisp.
- Once the zucchini is cooked to your desired tenderness, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Remove the lid and stir gently to incorporate the melted cheese into the turkey and zucchini.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.
how to serve Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
This dish can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a side of rice or quinoa for added heartiness. It’s great as a warm dish and can also be enjoyed in wraps or lettuce cups for a lighter option.
how to store Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, or microwave it until heated through.
tips to make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
- Make sure to use lean ground turkey to keep the dish healthy.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste by adding more or less of each spice.
- You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer, you can use ground chicken instead of turkey.
variation
You can easily turn this skillet dish into a vegetarian meal by replacing the ground turkey with black beans or lentils. This will keep it just as tasty while making it suitable for vegetarian diets.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture when cooking for some extra heat.

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and healthy meal featuring lean ground turkey and fresh zucchini, packed with flavor and topped with melty mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet and let it heat for about 1 minute.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- While the turkey is cooking, wash and slice the zucchinis into half-moon shapes.
- Once the turkey is cooked, remove excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika over the mixture and stir well.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the mixture and cover for 1-2 minutes to melt.
- Stir gently to incorporate the melted cheese and remove from heat.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish before serving.
Notes
Serve as a standalone meal or with rice or quinoa. Great in wraps or lettuce cups. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American