If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s equal parts effortless and eye-catching, let me introduce you to the Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet. This one-pan wonder is brimming with juicy ground turkey, tender bell peppers in a rainbow of colors, a punch of garlic, and just the right amount of cozy seasoning. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, nutrient-packed meal on the table that feels both hearty and light, with bold flavors and gooey cheese (if you wish!). I promise, this is the kind of quick skillet recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet is that every ingredient serves a real purpose—nothing extra, nothing fussy. Bold colors, robust flavors, and a comforting, saucy texture come together thanks to these easy-to-find staples:
- 1 pound ground turkey: Lean and protein-rich, this is the star of the skillet for a lighter, healthier base than beef.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps the turkey brown beautifully while preventing sticking.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Sweet and aromatic, onion forms the savory backbone of the dish.
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced: A trio of peppers brings color and a sweet, subtle crunch you’ll love.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For irresistible aromatics and a hint of spice that warms everything up.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses those Mediterranean notes you crave.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness for depth and a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Lends just the right touch of heat to round things out.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Adds juicy freshness and helps create a luscious, tomatoey sauce.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and brightens the mix—use low-sodium if preferred.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional): For a final gooey, melty flourish if you want a little bit of indulgence.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of green at the end makes the skillet pop and adds freshness.
How to Make Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, add your ground turkey. With a wooden spoon or spatula, break it apart and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The goal is to get those delicious caramelized bits on the turkey—don’t rush this part, as that deep flavor really sets the tone for your whole skillet. Once the turkey is mostly browned, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Peppers
Toss in your diced onion, the rainbow of bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté everything together, stirring frequently. In about 4 to 5 minutes, the veggies will soften and turn beautifully fragrant. This step brings that sweet and savory balance—you’ll notice the kitchen really starts to smell inviting right about now!
Step 3: Season Like a Pro
Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give the skillet a good stir so the seasonings coat every bite. This is your chance to build big flavor with very little effort, and that hint of smoked paprika will make the whole dish taste special.
Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth. Give everything a gentle stir, lower the heat a bit, and let the whole mixture simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. The flavors will come together and the sauce will thicken up slightly, making your Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet luscious and just saucy enough.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re craving that cheesy pull, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar over the skillet during the last 2 minutes. Cover with a lid so the cheese gets irresistibly gooey without drying out your turkey and peppers. If you prefer to keep it lighter, feel free to skip the cheese—it’s delicious either way!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before you’re ready to dig in, shower the skillet with plenty of fresh parsley. This final step elevates the dish visually and adds a fresh, herbal bite that contrasts with the rich, savory filling. The Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet is best enjoyed hot, right out of the pan.
How to Serve Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet
Garnishes
Sprinkle plenty of chopped fresh parsley over each serving just before eating—it adds color, freshness, and a garden-bright finish. For extra zest, add a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a handful of sliced scallions for sharper flavor. These simple touches make every bowl of this skillet pop with flavor and vibrancy.
Side Dishes
This dish is incredibly versatile! Spoon your Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet over fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or a twirl of whole-grain pasta for a heartier meal. For a low-carb take, serve it with cauliflower rice or pile it atop a bed of steamed greens. Crusty bread also makes a great partner for mopping up that saucy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can stuff leftovers into warm pita or tortillas for a quick wrap, or serve atop baked sweet potatoes for a comforting twist. Transform your skillet into a brunch-worthy meal by topping with a fried egg, or use it to fill bell pepper halves and bake for a showstopping entrée. However you plate it, the colors and textures always shine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes it a stellar option for meal prep or quick lunches—just scoop out a portion and reheat as needed, and the flavors deepen even more overnight!
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead, it freezes beautifully. Ladle cooled skillet portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture, and don’t forget to add fresh parsley after reheating!
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the mixture looks a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen things up. For single servings, the microwave works great—simply cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to distribute the heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps things lean and light, ground chicken or lean beef are both excellent alternatives that work perfectly in this skillet. You might notice a slightly different flavor, but all the seasonings and veggies will still shine through.
Is the Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet spicy?
Not at all—it’s full of warmth and flavor, but not spicy. If you love a little kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when adding the seasonings in step 3.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Simple—just leave out the cheese. The dish is plenty flavorful, saucy, and satisfying without any dairy, so you won’t miss out at all. You can also experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives if you like the melt factor.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes! The Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet is one of my favorite meal-prep dinners because it holds up beautifully in the fridge for several days. Make a batch ahead of time, divide into containers, and you have tasty, healthy lunches ready to go.
What’s the best way to add extra veggies?
Feel free to toss in chopped zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or even corn when you add the peppers. The skillet is a flexible base for whatever veggies are in your fridge or garden!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something soothing and satisfying about making a Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet—especially when you know that in only 30 minutes, you’re sitting down to a colorful, nourishing meal. Give it a try, make it your own, and watch it become a go-to favorite at your table, too!
Print
Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delicious recipe for a Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet that is packed with flavor and nutrients. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily customized to suit your tastes.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Skillet:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
- Cook ground turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Add onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add cheese: If using cheese, sprinkle over the top in the last 2 minutes of cooking and cover until melted.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal.
- You can also swap ground turkey for chicken or lean beef.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
