There is something wonderfully comforting and vibrant about this Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe. It combines lean ground turkey with the sweet crunch of colorful bell peppers, all simmered in a medley of smoky and savory spices. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that make weeknight dinners extraordinarily satisfying. Whether you’re after a protein-packed meal or simply craving a wholesome skillet supper, this recipe has got you covered with bright colors, fresh aromas, and a perfect balance of tender and crisp textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each contributing to the harmony of taste, texture, and color in the dish. You’ll find that combining these pantry staples creates a truly vibrant and hearty skillet meal that’s bursting with flavor.
- 1 lb ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps this dish light yet satisfying.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps to soften the onions and peppers beautifully.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed to softness.
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced: Offer a wonderful crunch, sweetness, and a vibrant pop of color.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant punch that elevates the entire skillet.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Gives a lovely smoky undertone that blends perfectly with the turkey.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds warm earthiness and complexity.
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional): Just a hint of heat to gently tease the palate.
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for a bit of spice and depth.
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the skillet moist while enhancing savory notes.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds richness and a slight tang that ties everything together.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos: Introduces a subtle umami kick for extra flavor complexity.
- Juice of ½ lime (optional): Brightens the entire dish with fresh citrusy zing.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish: Provides a burst of herbal freshness at the end.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by warming your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This creates the perfect base to gently soften the vegetables while bringing out their natural sweetness and aromas.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Toss in your diced onion and cook it until it becomes soft and translucent, around 3 minutes. This step unlocks the subtle sweetness hidden in the onions, laying a flavorful foundation for the dish.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic and cook just until it’s fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Garlic’s warmth will subtly infuse the skillet and make your kitchen smell absolutely inviting.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Turkey
Add your ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown evenly until no pink remains, roughly 5 to 6 minutes. This step ensures every bite has tender, well-cooked meat with plenty of flavor.
Step 5: Season Generously
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder if you’re using it, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything to coat the turkey evenly with these aromatic spices that truly define this Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe.
Step 6: Stir in the Bell Peppers
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook everything together for 3 to 4 minutes. The peppers should become just tender enough to keep their wonderful crunch and vibrant color.
Step 7: Add Broth and Tomato Paste
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the tomato paste. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly, coating the meat and veggies with deliciousness.
Step 8: Finish with Lime and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat, then squeeze in fresh lime juice if you like that citrus burst. Finally, sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh herbal note before serving.
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley truly brightens the dish and adds an inviting freshness. You can also add a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or a light sprinkle of shredded cheese if you want a little indulgence and creaminess on top.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or even a simple quinoa salad. The choice depends on your mood and dietary preferences, but all options welcome the vibrant flavors beautifully and help round out a nutritious meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe over a baked sweet potato or stuffed into roasted bell pepper halves for a colorful, fun presentation. It also makes a fantastic filling for lettuce wraps if you’re craving something light and crunchy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the skillet to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers remain fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want extra convenience, this recipe freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 2 months, ready for when you need a wholesome meal without the effort.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly and maintain that fresh skillet texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken will work just as well, offering a slightly milder flavor but the same lean protein goodness. The spices and peppers will still shine beautifully.
What can I substitute for bell peppers if I don’t have any?
Try using zucchini, mushrooms, or even diced carrots for a different kind of crunch and sweetness. Each adds its own texture and color, keeping the dish vibrant and tasty.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you choose gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos. It’s an excellent option for those watching their gluten intake.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The chili powder is optional and used modestly, so the overall dish is mildly spiced. You can always leave it out or increase it according to your taste for a little extra kick.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in zucchini, corn, tomatoes, or even spinach. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep everything perfectly textured.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe is truly a keeper. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and versatile enough for many meal occasions. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to add a wholesome, colorful, and satisfying dish to their dinner rotation. Give it a try—you’re going to love how approachable and delicious it is!
Print
Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Turkey and Bell Pepper Skillet that combines lean ground turkey with vibrant bell peppers and aromatic spices, cooked in a single pan for an easy, healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main 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
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Liquids and Extras
- 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, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare the pan for sautéing.
- Sauté onions: Add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes, to build the flavor base.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Cook turkey: Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes, to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Season meat: Sprinkle smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder if using, salt, and black pepper over the turkey, mixing well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add peppers: Stir in the sliced bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp, adding texture to the dish.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat, add lime juice if desired, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can use a mix of bell pepper colors to brighten the dish and add varying flavors.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the chili powder entirely.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or with tortillas for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
