Exciting news for busy home cooks! Ground turkey is your secret weapon for quick, healthy, and delicious skillet dinners. From comforting classics to fresh twists, these recipes are perfect for weeknight meals. Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these 23 mouthwatering ideas that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Turkey and Vegetable Skillet Stir-Fry
Kickstart your weeknight dinner with this protein-packed skillet that comes together in minutes. Grab your favorite veggies and let’s fire up the pan—this stir-fry is about to become your new go-to.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or sub ground chicken)
– 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (seeds removed)
– 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (adjust for salt preference)
– 1 tsp ginger, grated (fresh or jarred)
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula into small crumbles.
3. Cook turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains and it’s lightly browned.
4. Tip: If excess fat renders, drain it for a leaner dish before proceeding.
5. Add diced onion and sliced bell pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine with the turkey.
6. Sauté vegetables for 3-4 minutes until onions turn translucent and peppers soften slightly.
7. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant to avoid burning.
8. Add broccoli florets to the skillet, tossing everything together evenly.
9. Pour in soy sauce and sprinkle red pepper flakes (if using) over the mixture.
10. Tip: For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of water or broth if ingredients stick.
11. Reduce heat to medium, cover the skillet, and let cook for 4-5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.
12. Tip: Uncover and stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
13. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then remove from heat immediately.
Yield a vibrant, savory dish where the turkey stays juicy and the veggies add a satisfying crunch. Serve it over quinoa for a hearty bowl or stuff into warm tortillas for a fun twist—either way, it’s a flavor bomb waiting to happen.
Cheesy Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet
Ready to transform your weeknight dinner game? This cheesy ground turkey and rice skillet delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
– 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
– 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika (smoked adds depth)
– ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 lb ground turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until no pink remains.
3. Stir in diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
4. Add 1 cup uncooked rice, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper; toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly to coat.
5. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow rice to steam fully.
8. Fluff the mixture with a fork, then sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9. Cover again for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and gooey.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
A creamy, cheesy masterpiece with tender rice and savory turkey that’s perfect straight from the skillet. Try topping with diced tomatoes or a dollop of sour cream for a fresh twist—leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day!
Southwestern Ground Turkey Skillet
Craving a flavor-packed dinner that comes together in one pan? This Southwestern ground turkey skillet delivers bold spices and fresh ingredients in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying fast.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken for a leaner option)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 small yellow onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained (or frozen corn, thawed)
– 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 lb ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no pink remains, 5–7 minutes.
3. Tip: If the turkey releases excess liquid, drain it for a better sear.
4. Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle in 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, and salt and pepper; toast spices for 1 minute.
7. Tip: Toasting spices enhances their flavor—don’t skip this step!
8. Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies; stir to combine.
9. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
10. Tip: For a saucier skillet, add a splash of broth or water if needed.
11. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Vibrant and hearty, this skillet boasts a tender texture from the turkey and beans, with a smoky-spicy kick from the spices and chilies. Serve it over rice, in tortillas for tacos, or topped with avocado for a creamy contrast—leftovers taste even better the next day!
Mushroom and Turkey Skillet Pasta
Ready to level up your weeknight dinner game? This one-pan wonder combines savory turkey, earthy mushrooms, and tender pasta in a creamy sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or sub ground chicken)
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced (baby bellas work too)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best!)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 8 oz short pasta like penne or fusilli
– 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 lb ground turkey and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until no pink remains.
3. Stir in diced onion and sliced mushrooms; sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables soften.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
5. Pour in 8 oz uncooked pasta, 2 cups chicken broth, and 1/2 cup heavy cream; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
7. Uncover and stir in 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
8. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
9. Remove from heat and fold in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Keep it cozy with its creamy, hearty texture and rich umami flavors from the turkey and mushrooms. Try topping with a fried egg for a brunch twist or serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Ground Turkey and Spinach Skillet
Hearty, healthy, and on your table in 20 minutes—this one-pan wonder is weeknight dinner perfection. Packed with protein and greens, it’s a flavor bomb that’s as easy as it is delicious. No fuss, all flavor.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
– 4 cups fresh spinach (about 5 oz)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Parmesan)
– Salt and black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains, 5–7 minutes.
3. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for even browning.
4. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
7. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
8. Tip: Simmer uncovered to thicken the sauce slightly.
9. Add fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted, about 2–3 minutes total.
10. Season with salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
11. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
12. Cover the skillet and cook over low heat until cheese is melted, 2–3 minutes.
13. Tip: For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes after melting (watch closely!).
14. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Juicy turkey mingles with tender spinach in a savory tomato base, topped with gooey cheese. Serve it over quinoa for a hearty bowl, or stuff it into tortillas for easy wraps. Leftovers? They’re even better the next day.
Spicy Ground Turkey and Quinoa Skillet
Transform your weeknight dinner game with this protein-packed skillet that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 medium yellow onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust for heat)
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– ½ tsp smoked paprika
– ½ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– ½ cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
– ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink.
5. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, coating the turkey evenly.
6. Add rinsed quinoa, red bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet, stirring to combine.
7. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
9. Uncover and stir in black beans and corn, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
10. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice.
Serve immediately with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices for creaminess. The quinoa soaks up all the spicy flavors while keeping the texture light and fluffy—ideal for stuffing into tortillas or topping with a fried egg for breakfast.
Zucchini and Turkey Skillet with Parmesan
Let’s transform that zucchini lurking in your fridge into a flavor-packed dinner. This one-skillet wonder combines lean protein and fresh veggies for a meal that’s both healthy and seriously satisfying.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced into ½-inch cubes
– 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 small chopped yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add 1 lb ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink.
5. Stir in 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Add 2 diced zucchinis and cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp-tender.
7. Sprinkle ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mixture.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 2 minutes to melt the cheese and meld flavors.
9. Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving.
You’ll love the tender zucchini paired with savory turkey and that salty Parmesan punch. Serve it over quinoa for a complete meal or stuff it into warm tortillas for a quick wrap—either way, it’s a weeknight win.
Lemon Herb Ground Turkey Skillet
Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner game with this zesty, protein-packed skillet. Ground turkey meets bright lemon and fresh herbs for a dish that’s both light and satisfying—perfect over rice, quinoa, or tucked into tacos.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean works best)
– 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn.
4. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula into small crumbles.
5. Cook turkey until no pink remains, 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Sprinkle in dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
7. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
8. Pour in fresh lemon juice and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
9. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes to let flavors meld.
10. Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
Fresh herbs and lemon juice brighten every bite, while the turkey stays tender and juicy. Serve it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or stuff it into warm pita pockets with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Ground Turkey and Black Bean Skillet Chili
Ditch the boring dinners and dive into this flavor-packed skillet chili that comes together in under 30 minutes. Bold spices, lean protein, and hearty beans create a weeknight winner everyone will crave.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken for variation)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust for more heat)
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 lb ground turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until no longer pink.
3. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure proper browning for deeper flavor.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
5. Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, toast for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
6. Pour in undrained diced tomatoes, drained black beans, and 1 cup chicken broth.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Tip: Simmer uncovered to allow the chili to reduce and intensify in flavor.
9. Season with salt and pepper, taste and adjust spices if needed.
10. Tip: Let it rest for 5 minutes off heat for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Perfectly hearty with a smoky kick, this chili boasts a thick, stew-like texture that clings to every spoonful. Serve it over rice, with tortilla chips for dipping, or top with a dollop of cool sour cream to balance the warmth.
Pesto Turkey and Tomato Skillet
Zesty pesto meets juicy turkey in this one-pan wonder that’s ready in 20 minutes. Grab your skillet and let’s get sizzling! Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep magic.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or sub ground chicken)
– 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for best flavor)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
2. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula.
3. Cook turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Tip: Don’t burn the garlic—it turns bitter fast!
6. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
7. Stir in pesto, salt, and black pepper until everything is coated evenly.
8. Tip: If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
9. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes to meld flavors.
10. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning now—add more salt or pepper if needed.
11. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil if using.
Mouthwatering and hearty, this skillet boasts tender turkey with bursts of sweet tomatoes, all hugged by herby pesto. Serve it over zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist or stuff it into warm pita pockets for a quick handheld feast.
Asian-Inspired Ground Turkey Skillet
Hustle-free dinner dreams come true with this flavor-packed skillet! Transform ground turkey into an umami bomb in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when takeout tempts.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean works best for moisture)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil (or any neutral oil)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for max punch)
– 1 tbsp ginger, grated (peel first for smooth texture)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar (adds bright acidity)
– 1 tsp sriracha (adjust for heat level)
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color for crunch)
– 1 cup frozen peas (no thaw needed)
– 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine or white for fluffiness)
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish and freshness)
Instructions
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula into small crumbles.
3. Cook turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains and it starts to brown.
4. Tip: Let turkey sit undisturbed for 1 minute to develop a golden crust before stirring.
5. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Tip: Avoid burning garlic by keeping heat medium-high and moving quickly.
7. Stir in diced bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
8. Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha, mixing thoroughly to coat everything.
9. Add frozen peas and cooked rice, folding gently to combine without mashing rice.
10. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and mixture is heated through.
11. Tip: If skillet seems dry, add 1-2 tbsp water to loosen and prevent sticking.
12. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
The tender turkey mingles with crisp peppers and fluffy rice, all glazed in a savory-sweet sauce that clings perfectly. Serve it straight from the skillet for a family-style vibe, or top with a fried egg for extra richness.
Ground Turkey Skillet with Bell Peppers and Onions
Tired of boring weeknight dinners? Transform your skillet into a flavor bomb with this protein-packed, veggie-loaded masterpiece. Ready in under 30 minutes—let’s get sizzling!
Ingredients
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced (yellow or white works best)
– 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color mix for vibrancy)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika (smoked adds depth)
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and black pepper (to season throughout)
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional but brightens it up)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until no longer pink, 5–7 minutes.
3. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet—work in batches if needed for even browning.
4. Add diced onion and sliced bell peppers, stirring to combine with the turkey.
5. Sauté until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Sprinkle paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the mixture.
8. Tip: Toast spices briefly for 30 seconds to enhance their aroma.
9. Reduce heat to medium and cook for another 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well blended and heated through.
10. Tip: For extra moisture, add a splash of broth or water if the skillet looks dry.
11. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Mouthwatering and hearty, this skillet boasts a juicy texture from the turkey and a sweet crunch from the peppers. Serve it over quinoa for a grain bowl twist or stuff into tortillas for quick tacos—leftovers taste even better the next day!
Balsamic Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Kickstart your weeknight dinner with this protein-packed skillet that comes together in under 30 minutes. Savory ground turkey meets sweet potatoes in a tangy balsamic glaze—perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– ½ tsp dried thyme
– ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F).
2. Add 1 lb ground turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until no pink remains.
3. Stir in 2 diced sweet potatoes, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
4. Pour in ¼ cup chicken broth, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Uncover and add 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the liquid reduces and coats the ingredients.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Yields a hearty, sweet-savory blend with tender potatoes and crispy turkey bits. Serve over quinoa or stuff into warm tortillas for a flavorful twist.
Italian Seasoned Turkey Skillet with Tomatoes
A skillet sensation that’ll have your taste buds dancing! This Italian-seasoned turkey dish comes together in minutes, bursting with juicy tomatoes and savory herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave big flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or sub ground chicken)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
4. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until no pink remains, 5–6 minutes.
5. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the turkey.
6. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Now that’s a flavor-packed skillet! The turkey stays tender, the tomatoes add a bright acidity, and the herbs tie it all together. Serve it over zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist or with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Skillet
Jumpstart your weeknight dinner with this protein-packed skillet that comes together in under 30 minutes. Just grab your pan and let’s transform simple ingredients into something seriously satisfying.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
– 1 medium yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking for 5-6 minutes until no pink remains.
3. Add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet and toss to combine with the turkey mixture.
6. Sprinkle paprika, red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper over the ingredients.
7. Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce, then bring to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook for 10 minutes until cabbage is tender but still has some crunch.
9. Uncover and cook for 2-3 more minutes to evaporate excess liquid, stirring frequently.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
The cabbage becomes tender yet retains a pleasant crunch, while the turkey soaks up the savory soy and paprika flavors. Serve it over rice for a complete meal, or stuff it into tortillas for a quick wrap—either way, it’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down.
Garlic Butter Turkey and Broccoli Skillet
Ready for a flavor-packed dinner that comes together in one pan? This garlic butter turkey and broccoli skillet delivers juicy protein and crisp veggies in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet effortless.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey (or sub ground chicken)
– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter (salted works, adjust seasoning)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (use more for extra kick)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
– Salt and black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula into small crumbles.
3. Cook turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains and it’s lightly browned.
4. Tip: Drain excess fat from the skillet if needed to prevent greasiness.
5. Push turkey to one side of the skillet and add broccoli florets to the empty space.
6. Sauté broccoli for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
7. Tip: For even cooking, cut broccoli into uniform-sized florets.
8. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the center of the skillet, letting it melt fully.
9. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning.
10. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate browned bits.
11. Sprinkle paprika, salt, and black pepper over the mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly.
12. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the ingredients.
13. Tip: Let it rest off heat for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
14. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Effortlessly satisfying, this dish boasts tender turkey with a rich, buttery garlic sauce and crisp-tender broccoli. Try it over quinoa or rice for a complete meal, or stuff it into warm tortillas for a quick wrap—leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day!
Conclusion
Cooking with ground turkey has never been easier or more delicious! These 23 skillet recipes offer quick, healthy meals perfect for busy weeknights. Try your favorites and let us know which ones you love in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest to help other home cooks discover these tasty ideas!
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
