Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and hearty meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner. This recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable, ensuring that you can whip it up even on your busiest days. With tender ground turkey, colorful bell peppers, and a zesty tomato sauce, this dish is sure to please the whole family. Plus, it comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in 30 minutes or less.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and veggies.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans!

What You’ll Gather

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced (or red/orange)
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 3-4 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp cracked pepper
• Sea salt to taste
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
• Shredded cheese for topping (optional)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large skillet – for cooking all the ingredients together.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and mixing everything.
• Cutting board and knife – for chopping the veggies.
• Measuring spoons and cups – for accuracy in your ingredients.

Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced green and yellow bell peppers, along with the diced red onion, to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Turkey

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the 1 lb of ground turkey to the other side. Break it apart with your spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Add Flavor

Once the turkey is cooked through, stir in the minced garlic (or garlic powder), 3-4 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 can of tomato sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 6: Season It Up

Pour in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, cracked pepper, and sea salt. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Mix in the Rice (Optional)

If you’re using cooked rice, stir it in at this point. This will help absorb the flavors and create a hearty meal.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy it on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
• Bell peppers can be swapped for zucchini or spinach based on your preference.
• Tomato sauce can be substituted with salsa for extra flavor.
• Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a burst of freshness.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Not browning the turkey properly: Ensure it is fully cooked and browned for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables: They should be tender but still crisp for the best texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t skimp on the spices; they elevate the dish!
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the dish to simmer lets the flavors develop beautifully.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

The Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use lean ground turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! Lean ground turkey works great and will still provide a delicious flavor. Just be mindful that it may be a bit drier, so you might want to add a touch more olive oil.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, this dish is gluten-free!

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! This Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dinner is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, crusty bread, or even over a baked potato for a filling meal.

Weekend Projects

• Baking with Sally: Bake Sale Guide
• Meal Prep 101 by Pinch of Yum
• Vegan 30-Minute Chili by Minimalist Baker
• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

The Last Word

This Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner is a fantastic go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty and fulfilling without the fuss. With its vibrant colors and robust flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Plus, the best part? You can easily tweak it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds!