If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, nourishing, and utterly satisfying dinner, this Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe is just what your weeknight meals have been missing. Bursting with colorful bell peppers, tender ground turkey, and a symphony of spices, this dish is a perfect balance of savory flavors and delightful textures that come together in one quick and easy skillet. It’s a hearty meal that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen but delivers maximum comfort and taste with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but pack a flavorful punch. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s the aroma, the color, or the juiciness that makes this dish so addictive and wholesome.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up spices beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and bringing a silky richness to the skillet.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced: For a colorful crunch and natural sweetness that lightens the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic boost that complements the turkey perfectly.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Offers a subtle smoky flavor that rounds out the spices wonderfully.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Brings earthiness and a hint of spice to each bite.
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional): Adds a touch of heat for those who love a little extra kick.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: A gentle seasoning that adds mild warmth.
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the mixture juicy and helps meld the flavors.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds richness and a slight tanginess to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos: Infuses a touch of umami and depth.
- Juice of ½ lime (optional): Lifts the dish with a zesty brightness at the end.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and let them soften until translucent, about 3 minutes. The sweet softened onions create a perfect base for the flavors that follow. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—this only takes about 30 seconds but makes a huge difference in richness.
Step 2: Brown the ground turkey
Next up, add the ground turkey to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart evenly, allowing it to brown nicely. This process usually takes 5 to 6 minutes. Browning is key here, as it develops a deep flavor and a nice texture that makes the dish more satisfying.
Step 3: Spice it up and add the peppers
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder if you like a bit of heat, salt, and black pepper. Stir these spices around so they coat the turkey evenly. Then, toss in the sliced bell peppers. Let everything cook together for 3 to 4 minutes, so the peppers get tender but still maintain a refreshing crunch.
Step 4: Add the liquids and simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, stir in the tomato paste, and drizzle the soy sauce or coconut aminos over the mixture. Allow everything to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This simmer softens the peppers further and transforms the skillet into a luscious, saucy delight.
Step 5: Brighten and serve
Just before serving, squeeze the juice of half a lime over the skillet for a burst of brightness and tang. Give everything one last mix and serve hot for a dinner that is both comforting and vibrant.
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe by sprinkling some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sliced avocado works wonders for added creaminess and freshness. A few red pepper flakes can also be a fun, spicy touch.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs exceptionally well with steamed white or brown rice, giving a neutral base to soak up those delicious juices. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or crispy roasted potatoes. Even a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements it perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, fill warm tortillas with the turkey and peppers mixture and top with cheese and salsa for quick tacos. Or, scoop it over baked sweet potatoes for a comforting bowl meal. The colorful veggies also make it a beautiful and hearty filling for stuffed bell peppers if you want to serve it a bit more fancifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
This Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe freezes well—perfect for batch cooking. Cool completely and freeze in a sealable container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water during reheating helps restore the skillet’s saucy goodness without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well, though ground turkey’s slightly richer flavor complements the spices perfectly. The cooking times and steps remain the same.
What can I substitute for soy sauce if I have allergies?
Great question. Coconut aminos is an excellent gluten-free and soy-free alternative that offers a similar umami depth. Tamari is another option if you are gluten-sensitive but can have soy.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe has mild heat by default, but the chili powder is optional. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more, less, or no chili powder at all.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To make it vegetarian, swap out ground turkey for firm tofu crumbles or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegan-friendly.
How can I make this recipe lower in sodium?
Use low-sodium chicken broth and soy sauce or opt for alternatives like coconut aminos. Adjust added salt carefully, and taste as you go to keep the flavors balanced without overdoing sodium.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe has become one of my go-to weeknight dinners because it’s quick, customizable, and full of vibrant flavors that never disappoint. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family meal or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Give it a try—you just might find your new best skillet supper!
Print
Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and healthy Ground Turkey and Peppers skillet recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Ground turkey is sautéed with vibrant bell peppers, aromatic spices, and a tangy lime finish, creating a delicious and nutritious meal that serves 4.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Juice of ½ lime (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook the ground turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Add spices and bell peppers: Season the turkey with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sliced bell peppers and cook until they are tender yet still crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Simmer with liquids: Mix in the low-sodium chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and finish the dish with a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve hot immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or lean ground beef for the turkey if preferred.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the sodium content lower.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, quinoa, or wraps for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
