If you’re searching for an easy, delicious meal that comes together in a single pan, you’ll love this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet. This dish is a weeknight hero, featuring juicy bites of lean turkey, tender zucchini, and a medley of savory seasonings all brought together with a melty topping of Parmesan. It’s full of color, flavor, and texture, making it both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re looking to sneak more veggies into your dinner or simply want something hearty without the heaviness, this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet absolutely delivers.

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about a dish that only needs a handful of simple ingredients, each one playing a special role. These kitchen staples not only make preparation a breeze but also work together to create a dinner that’s next-level tasty!

Ground turkey: Lean and full of protein, it absorbs all the wonderful flavors in the skillet.
Zucchini: When sliced and cooked, zucchini turns tender but keeps a lovely bite, adding gorgeous color and freshness.
Olive oil: This helps the onions and garlic get perfectly golden and fragrant at the start.
Onion: Sautéed onion adds sweetness and a savory base that makes the whole dish sing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of aromatic flavor that brightens every bite.
Dried oregano: Just a sprinkle brings a classic Mediterranean touch to the skillet.
Salt: Essential for bringing all those flavors to life.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle background warmth and depth.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For a subtle kick that keeps you coming back for more.
Chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and melds all the ingredients together in a savory bath.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts over the finished skillet, delivering a creamy finish and salty tang.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Pour the olive oil into a large, sturdy skillet and set it over medium heat. While the oil is warming, peel and finely chop your onion. Add it to the pan and stir occasionally as it softens and turns translucent, infusing the oil with sweetness—this is your flavor foundation!

Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma

Once the onion has mellowed, peel and mince the garlic cloves. Stir them into the skillet and let them cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This quick step makes a huge difference, filling the kitchen with a welcoming aroma.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey

Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it up with your spoon. Give it a good stir as it cooks, helping it brown evenly and soak up those aromatic flavors. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and no longer pink.

Step 4: Prep and Add the Zucchini

While the turkey is browning, wash and dry your zucchinis. Trim off the ends, then slice them in half lengthwise. Cut each half into half-moon slices—about a quarter inch thick. Add these vibrant zucchini pieces to the skillet, stirring them right in with the turkey.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour in the chicken broth and mix everything together. Lower the heat to let the skillet gently simmer for a few minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld and the zucchini to become perfectly tender.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Finish

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese across the skillet, stirring until it melts into a creamy coating for every bite. Taste the mixture and adjust with a little extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you crave more kick. Once the cheese is perfectly melted, your Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is ready to serve!

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Garnishes

This hearty skillet truly shines with a fresh sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top, but a handful of chopped fresh herbs—like parsley or basil—adds more color and a pop of flavor. A drizzle of olive oil just before serving is another pro tip that ties everything together.

Side Dishes

The Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or even a simple green salad. If you want to keep things low carb, serve it solo or over a bed of cauliflower rice for extra veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this dish into a fun family meal by stuffing the mixture into halved bell peppers and baking until tender. Or, serve it over quinoa for a protein-packed bowl. A zesty dollop of Greek yogurt on top can also make it feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras, simply transfer your Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet to an airtight container once cooled. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days, making lunch or dinner a breeze the next time hunger strikes.

Freezing

This skillet meal holds up surprisingly well in the freezer! Just spoon it into freezer-safe containers or bags, letting it cool completely before sealing. Lay flat for easy storage, and use within 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the skillet gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth. Alternatively, pop a portion in the microwave, covering loosely, until steaming hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?

Absolutely; ground chicken or lean ground beef both work beautifully in this skillet, although each will lend a slightly different flavor. Use what you have on hand!

How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?

Keep the zucchini pieces thick enough—about a quarter inch—and avoid overcooking. Add them after browning the turkey and simmer just until tender but still vibrant for perfect results.

Is this dish spicy with the red pepper flakes?

It has a mild kick, but you’re in control! Feel free to use less (or more) crushed red pepper flakes, or leave them out altogether if serving young kids or spice-sensitive eaters.

Can I make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or swap in a dairy-free alternative. The skillet will still be hearty and delicious, with all that savory, herby goodness.

What veggies can I add to mix things up?

Try tossing in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even baby spinach toward the end. This recipe is super flexible and perfect for using up odds and ends in the crisper drawer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet a spot on your dinner rotation. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again—simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. If you try it, be sure to share your variations and let this skillet become a classic in your own kitchen!

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 18 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of ground turkey, zucchini, and seasonings cooked together creates a delicious and satisfying dish.

Instructions

Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion: Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft and translucent.
Cook garlic: Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Cook turkey: Crumble ground turkey into the skillet and cook until browned.
Prepare zucchini: Slice zucchinis and add to the skillet.
Season: Add oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add broth: Pour in chicken broth and simmer.
Finish with cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the skillet and stir until melted.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve hot.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or over cooked pasta.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Ground Turkey, Zucchini, Skillet Recipe, One-Pan Meal