Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe
Looking for a quick, wholesome dinner that doesn’t skimp on color or flavor? The Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to weeknight hero. Tender ground turkey mingles with sweet, vibrant bell peppers and a cozy mix of spices, all sizzling together in one skillet for a meal that checks every box—healthy, hearty, and bursting with personality. Whether you’re meal prepping or just hungry after a long day, there’s no better way to dig into something delicious and satisfying with so little fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is how each straightforward ingredient offers something unique—richness, brightness, aroma, or the perfect savory kick. Gather these pantry and fridge staples and you’ll have the foundation for a stand-out Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe.
- 1 lb lean ground turkey: Delivers lean protein and soaks up every bit of flavor from the seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Gives a silky base for sautéing and brings a subtle richness without heaviness.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Sweet and savory, onions lay down the aromatic foundation for the whole dish.
- 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced: Choose a mix for color and crunch—they transform the skillet with sweetness and vibrancy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Just a bit of minced garlic infuses bold aroma and deepens every bite.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This smoky spice gives the skillet a warm, gentle kick and gorgeous color.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Adds a hint of spice and earthy depth; feel free to adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Provides an herby, floral note for balance.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing everything together—don’t skip it!
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and rounds out the flavors.
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water: Keeps the skillet juicy and melds the flavors; broth is best, but water works in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional): A spoonful brings richer color and a subtle tang—give it a try if you love tomato flavor!
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Fresh herbs brighten the final dish and add a pop of green.
How to Make Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the diced yellow onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent—this step builds a savory base and lightly sweet aroma that you’ll notice throughout the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
Next, add your ground turkey straight into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Continue to stir and crumble until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. The turkey should be golden with no pink left—this is when it picks up the most flavor!
Step 3: Add Garlic and Bell Peppers
Stir in your minced garlic and those gorgeous slices of bell pepper. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peppers will soften just a bit but still retain some crunch, while the garlic fills the kitchen with an inviting scent. It’s a promise of good things to come.
Step 4: Season
Now’s the time for depth and spice. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so every morsel gets coated. The smoked paprika and chili powder give warmth and character, while dried oregano offers a fragrant lift.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and tomato paste if using. Stir to combine, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step lets the flavors meld and the skillet thicken just a touch so every bite is super satisfying. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is more than just a pretty touch—it delivers a little hint of green freshness that lifts each hearty spoonful. For extra indulgence, a squeeze of lemon over the top or a sprinkle of grated cheese can add a bright finish or creamy boost, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This skillet is truly adaptable when it comes to sides. Serve it over fluffy steamed rice, nutty quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Pair with a simple green salad or warm tortillas to soak up every bit of the saucy veggies and turkey.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe into stuffed bell peppers by spooning the mixture into pepper halves and roasting until toasty. Pile leftovers into a wrap or onto a baked potato for lunch, or tuck it into lettuce cups for a crunchy, handheld option. It’s also fantastic atop nachos for a fun, family-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully! Let the skillet cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep lunches or busy weeknight dinners—just scoop, reheat, and dive in!
Freezing
This recipe freezes like a champ. Portion the cooled Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for an easy, healthy meal whenever you need it.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. For microwaving, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel; heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between. The peppers might be a little softer, but the flavors get even richer!
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! The Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe works just as well with ground chicken for a similar light flavor, or ground beef if you want richer, heartier results. Adjust cook times as needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not especially! The smoked paprika and chili powder add warmth but not much heat. If you love a little kick, feel free to double the chili powder or toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
What vegetables can I add to customize the skillet?
This is the perfect recipe for using up what’s in your fridge—try mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes. They’ll add extra nutrients and bulk up the dish without much effort.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes! The Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written, so you can serve it to nearly anyone. Just check labels on your chicken broth if you’re extra cautious.
How long does it take from start to finish?
You’ll have dinner ready in about 30 minutes. Between the quick chopping and sauteing, this skillet is truly designed for busy evenings when you need something wholesome, colorful, and fast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for one of those easy, crowd-pleasing meals you’ll want to make again and again, give the Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe a spot in your weekly rotation. Every time you serve it up, you’ll see how a handful of simple ingredients can transform into something warm, nourishing, and completely delicious right in your own kitchen.
Print
Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. With lean ground turkey, colorful bell peppers, and a blend of spices, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Skillet:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook Onions and Turkey: Add diced onion and cook until softened. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Add Peppers and Spices: Stir in garlic, bell peppers, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until peppers are tender.
- Simmer: Add chicken broth and tomato paste. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
