Let’s be honest—some nights, cooking feels like running a marathon in stilettos. That’s why I’m beyond excited to share this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet with you. It’s one of those magical dishes that ticks all the boxes for busy weeknights: quick, healthy, and so delicious it might just make your picky eaters sing your praises.
With lean ground turkey soaking up savory spices and tender zucchini adding a fresh, slightly sweet crunch, this skillet meal is a true dinner hero. And the best part? You’ll have it on the table in about 30 minutes. Hello, new weeknight favorite!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
- Fast and fuss-free. You’ll go from chopping board to dinner table in under half an hour. Perfect for those “I’m starving and can’t even think” nights.
- Healthy but hearty. Lean protein, loads of veggies, and just enough cheese to keep things cozy.
- Big on flavor. Garlic, onion, oregano, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes create layers of savory goodness.
- Versatile. Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, pasta, or just scoop it straight out of the pan. No judgment here!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the magic lineup for this flavorful Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet:
- Ground Turkey – Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up spices.
- Zucchini – The star veggie, offering a fresh, slightly sweet bite.
- Olive Oil – For that silky sauté action.
- Onion – Adds a gentle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic – Because garlic makes everything better.
- Dried Oregano – Earthy, herbal notes that tie the dish together.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Seasoning essentials.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but fabulous for a little kick.
- Chicken Broth – Keeps things moist and adds savory richness.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Melty, nutty, and downright delicious.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ready to whip this up? Let’s go!
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Chop the onion. Finely dice half an onion.
3. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. Mince the garlic. Peel and finely chop two cloves.
5. Add the garlic to the skillet, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the ground turkey, crumbling it with a spoon.
7. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink.
8. Prep the zucchini. Wash, trim, and slice into ¼-inch half-moons.
9. Add the zucchini to the skillet, stirring to combine.
10. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the zucchini starts softening but still has a bit of crunch.
11. Season with oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
12. Pour in the chicken broth and stir.
13. Lower the heat and simmer 3-4 minutes, letting flavors meld.
14. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the skillet and stir until melted and creamy.
15. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
16. Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!
Aneta’s Kitchen Tip
Don’t panic if your skillet looks a bit watery before you add the cheese—that’s normal! The Parmesan acts like a little culinary superhero, thickening things up and adding that perfect savory finish.
Oh, and if your kids “don’t like zucchini,” try chopping it smaller—they might not even notice it’s there. (Mwahaha.)
A Little Story From My Skillet to Yours
The first time I made this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet, it was one of those crazy days when the laundry was overflowing, my inbox was screaming, and my stomach was basically yelling, “Feed me now!”
I tossed some ground turkey into the pan, rummaged through my veggie drawer, and landed on zucchini. And just like that, dinner magic happened. It’s been my weeknight lifesaver ever since—and now it’s yours too!
FAQs About Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I substitute ground chicken for the turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works beautifully here and soaks up all the same flavors.
How can I make this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet spicier?
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
How should I store leftovers?
Pop leftovers into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet?
Yes! Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Bring the Magic Home
Whether you’re craving something healthy, quick, or simply delicious, this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet has your back. It’s one of those trusty recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen superhero—even on the busiest days. So grab that skillet, turn up some music, and let’s make dinner magic happen tonight!
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving more tasty skillet or zucchini creations, or simply looking for easy weeknight dinners, check out these delicious ideas from Chicken Magic Recipes:
- For another veggie-packed skillet wonder, try my Caprese Chicken Zucchini Skillet — it’s fresh, cheesy, and perfect for summer vibes.
- Keep the healthy momentum going with my Healthy Chicken Breast with Zucchini and Squash for a light, colorful dinner option.
- If Tex-Mex flavors are calling your name, you’ll love my Tex-Mex Chicken and Zucchini, another one-pan beauty loaded with bold spices.
- Or explore hearty skillet flavors with the savory Chicken and Vegetables Skillet — a comforting meal that comes together in a flash.
Each of these dishes makes busy nights a breeze and brings a bit of Chicken Magic to your table. Happy cooking!
Print
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a quick, healthy dinner bursting with savory flavor, tender zucchini, and lean turkey. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
½ onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground turkey
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch half-moons
1 tsp dried oregano
¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
⅓ cup chicken broth
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
Add sliced zucchini and stir well. Cook for 4-5 minutes until zucchini begins to soften but stays slightly crisp.
Sprinkle in dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Chop the zucchini smaller if you have picky eaters—they might not even notice it’s there!
Adjust the crushed red pepper for more or less heat.
Delicious over rice, pasta, cauliflower rice, or enjoyed on its own for a low-carb meal.
Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg