Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Get ready for your new weeknight hero! This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is fast, flavor-packed, and absolutely loaded with juicy turkey and tender veggies. The magic happens all in one pan for the ultimate low-mess, high-reward experience.

Lean ground turkey brings satisfying, savory goodness, while vibrant zucchini, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic herbs brighten up every forkful. Each bite is hearty but light, making it perfect for lunch prep or a family-approved dinner.

What really sets this recipe apart? It’s so incredibly simple to make—no fancy ingredients, just wholesome staples and bold seasoning. It’s a go-to at my house when life gets busy but we still want something warm and nourishing on the table.

Easy, adaptable, and downright delicious—this is one skillet dinner you’ll make again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Seriously quick clean-up! Everything cooks in just one skillet.
• Wholesome and filling. Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies for balanced nutrition.
• Naturally low carb and gluten free. Diet-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy to customize. Swap in your favorite veggies or add grains to bulk it up.

Key Ingredients for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Ground Turkey

This is your lean, protein-packed base that soaks up all the flavorful seasonings in the pan. Look for 93% lean ground turkey for just the right balance of moisture and taste. If you prefer, ground chicken or lean ground beef also work—just know ground beef may result in a slightly richer, juicier skillet.

Zucchini

Zucchini brings tender texture and a subtle sweet earthiness. Slice it into half-moons or small quarters for faster, even cooking. Any summer squash can be subbed in, or feel free to use extra peppers or mushrooms if you’re all out.

Bell Pepper

Bell pepper adds a pop of color and bright sweetness that balances the savory turkey. Red, yellow, or orange all shine here. If you’re aiming for more heat, toss in a diced jalapeño, or swap in poblano for a smoky layer.

Onion

Sautéed onion lays the aromatic foundation, lending a touch of sweetness when caramelized. Yellow or white onion are ideal, but red will do in a pinch. Don’t skip this vegetable—it deepens the flavor of the whole dish!

Italian Seasoning

A generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning brings vibrant, herbal notes that tie everything together. If you don’t have a pre-made blend, mix up dried oregano, basil, and thyme. For a different twist, taco seasoning or smoked paprika can swap in for a new flavor spin.

Instructions for Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep and Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and the onion turns translucent. Toss in the garlic and sauté another 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful, as garlic can burn fast!

Brown the Ground Turkey

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the remaining olive oil. Crumble in your ground turkey and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and (if using) the red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking up the turkey with a spatula, until it’s fully browned and no pink remains.

Add Zucchini and Tomatoes

Stir the sliced zucchini into the skillet, mixing them with the browned turkey and softened veggies. Pour in the drained diced tomatoes, and give everything a good stir so flavors combine. Continue cooking for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.

Simmer and Finish

Let the skillet mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together and any excess liquid evaporates. Taste and adjust your seasonings as needed.

Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil over the skillet just before serving for a burst of herby freshness. Spoon into bowls and enjoy right away!

Recipe Variations

Make It Cheesy

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan over the skillet in the last two minutes of cooking. Cover and let the cheese melt for a gooey, comforting finish.

Go Spicy

Swap in a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while browning the turkey for a little heat. You could also finish with a dash of hot sauce right before serving!

Veggie-Only Option

Replace the ground turkey with an extra zucchini, more bell peppers, mushrooms, or even chopped spinach. Crumbled tofu also works well for a plant-based protein option.

Add Grains for Heft

Stir in a cup of cooked quinoa, rice, or even orzo pasta at the end to bulk up the meal and make it extra satisfying. Great for meal prep and leftovers!

Mediterranean Twist

Use oregano, basil, and a pinch of cinnamon for a Greek flair. Add olives or feta cheese on top before serving for a burst of briny, creamy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet with fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to make it a complete, hearty meal. It’s also delicious scooped into whole wheat pita, served over mixed salad greens, or alongside a slice of crusty bread. For a finishing touch, garnish with lots of fresh herbs, an extra squeeze of lemon, or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—just defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as needed. Refresh with extra herbs or a splash of olive oil if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a different protein instead of ground turkey?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean ground beef work wonderfully. For a vegetarian twist, crumbled tofu or tempeh are great substitutes.

Q: How do I prevent the zucchini from getting mushy?
A: Slice the zucchini slightly thick and don't overcook it—just sauté until fork-tender. The squash will soften as it rests, so keep an eye on texture.

Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes! The skillet keeps beautifully in the fridge and reheats well, making it perfect for prepping lunches or dinners in advance.

Q: Can I make this dairy free and gluten free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten free as written, and stays dairy free unless you add cheese at the end!

This Easy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is your ticket to a fresh, stress-free dinner bursting with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Give it a try this week—then come back to leave a comment or rating! I can’t wait to hear what you think.