Some of the best meals come together in one pan, using simple ingredients and bold spices to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Ground Turkey and Peppers is one of those recipes. It’s fast, versatile, and full of vibrant flavors—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish has roots in many home-style cuisines where ground meat and vegetables are seasoned generously and cooked until everything melds into a savory, satisfying meal. Ground turkey, often overlooked in favor of beef, shines here as a lean yet flavorful protein that absorbs spices beautifully. Combined with sweet bell peppers, aromatic onions, and smoky spices, it becomes anything but boring.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is how adaptable it is. You can serve it over rice, tuck it into tortillas, spoon it over quinoa, or enjoy it on its own. It’s naturally high in protein, customizable for spice level, and easy to scale up for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or preparing lunches for the week ahead, this skillet recipe earns a permanent spot in your rotation.
Recipe Overview
Ground Turkey and Peppers is a one-pan skillet meal made with lean ground turkey, colorful bell peppers, onions, garlic, and warm spices simmered in a light, savory sauce. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, packed with protein, and flexible enough to serve as a main dish, filling, or meal-prep staple.
Ingredients & Instructions
This recipe uses everyday pantry staples and fresh vegetables to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- 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)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor foundation of the dish.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
2. Brown the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small pieces. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the turkey is fully cooked and no longer pink.
Tip: Let the turkey sit undisturbed for short intervals to develop a bit of browning—this adds depth of flavor.
3. Season the Meat
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the turkey is evenly coated in the spices. Cooking the spices directly with the meat helps release their aroma and intensify their flavor.
4. Add the Bell Peppers
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 4–5 minutes, until the peppers soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch. This contrast in texture keeps the dish fresh and lively.
5. Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the tomato paste and soy sauce (or coconut aminos). Stir until the tomato paste dissolves and everything is well combined.
Reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes. The sauce will thicken just enough to coat the turkey and peppers without becoming heavy.
6. Finish and Garnish
Turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice if using. This final touch adds brightness and balances the smoky, savory flavors.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips & Variations
This recipe is intentionally flexible. Here are ways to adapt it to different tastes and dietary needs:
1. Make It Spicier or Milder
- Increase heat with extra chili powder, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Keep it mild by skipping chili powder entirely and focusing on smoked paprika and cumin.
2. Swap the Protein
- Ground chicken works well as a substitute.
- For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground alternative.
3. Add More Vegetables
Boost nutrition and volume by adding:
- Zucchini or yellow squash
- Mushrooms for a meaty texture
- Spinach or kale stirred in at the end
4. Change the Flavor Profile
- Add oregano and a pinch of cinnamon for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
- Use taco seasoning instead of individual spices for a Tex-Mex twist.
5. Meal Prep Friendly
This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day. Make a double batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Serving Ideas
Ground Turkey and Peppers is incredibly versatile:
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Use as a filling for tacos, wraps, or lettuce cups
- Spoon over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal
Ground Turkey and Peppers proves that quick meals don’t have to be bland or repetitive. With bold spices, fresh vegetables, and a light savory sauce, this skillet dish delivers flavor, balance, and flexibility in every bite. It fits seamlessly into busy schedules, meal-prep routines, and healthy eating plans without feeling restrictive.
Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner, a high-protein lunch option, or a base recipe you can customize endlessly, this dish checks all the boxes. Keep it simple, adjust it to your taste, and enjoy a meal that works as hard as you do.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. It stores well and reheats easily, making it ideal for meal prep.
2. Is ground turkey dry?
Not in this recipe. The sauce and vegetables keep it moist and flavorful.
3. Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes, but fresh peppers provide better texture. If using frozen, add them directly without thawing.
4. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Coconut aminos or tamari work well as alternatives.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
6. How can I make it low-sodium?
Use low-sodium broth and reduce or omit the soy sauce, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Ground Turkey and Peppers is a quick, healthy skillet dinner made with lean turkey, bell peppers, and bold spices. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, and easy customization.
