Dinner

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Recipe

Byreem everly November 3, 2025November 3, 2025

Introduction

This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it combines savory spices and a touch of Parmesan for a comforting, healthy dish.

The image shows a close-up top view of a cooked dish in a white pan placed on a white marbled surface. The dish has a first layer of chunky ground meat in a rich brown-red sauce mixed with melted yellow-orange cheese. The second layer consists of thin green zucchini slices spread evenly on top. Small chopped green parsley leaves are sprinkled all over the dish, adding a fresh touch. The texture looks soft and moist with a mix of smooth melted cheese and tender meat pieces, layered with fresh vegetable slices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
2 medium zucchinis
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 medium onion
2 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Peel and finely chop the onion, then add it to the skillet. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Peel and mince the garlic cloves, add them to the skillet, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: While the turkey cooks, wash the zucchinis. Trim the ends, cut in half lengthwise, and slice into 1/4-inch thick half-moons.
Step 6: Add the zucchini slices to the skillet. Stir to combine with the turkey and cook for 4-5 minutes until just tender but still firm.
Step 7: Sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over the mixture.
Step 8: Pour in the chicken broth, stir, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 9: Once the zucchini is tender and broth slightly reduced, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the skillet. Stir until melted and evenly coats the mixture.
Step 10: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if you like.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
Substitute ground chicken or lean beef if turkey isn’t available.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian alternative (replace turkey with mushrooms or tofu).
To spice it up more, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the zucchini tender but not mushy.

How to Serve

A round black pan filled with a cooked mixture of finely ground meat and small round slices of green zucchini, all coated in a light brown sauce with visible bits of cooked onion scattered throughout. Bright green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top and mixed in for fresh color contrast. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with green parsley leaves scattered around it, giving a fresh and clean look. On the side, a white bowl with more parsley and a small bowl of coarse salt and pepper are partially visible, adding to the natural ingredients theme. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground turkey for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground turkey. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What can I serve with this skillet dish?

This dish pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement it nicely for a balanced meal.