Ground Turkey and Peppers: A Simple, Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Ground Turkey and Peppers is a delicious, quick, and healthy meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This one-pan dish combines lean ground turkey with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a touch of chipotle or chili powder for extra depth. It’s a perfect dinner option for busy weeknights, and it can be served on its own or with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Why Make This Recipe

Quick and Easy

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t require hours of prep work.

Healthy and Lean

Ground turkey is a lean protein, making this dish healthier than those made with fatty meats. You’re getting plenty of protein with minimal fat. The addition of vegetables like bell peppers and onions provides essential nutrients, fiber, and vitamins.

One-Pan Meal

This recipe is a great option for busy families or anyone looking to cut down on cleanup time. With only one pan to wash, it’s a breeze to make and clean up after.

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Dish:

  • 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil adds healthy fat and flavor. You can use any cooking oil you prefer, like avocado oil or vegetable oil.
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion: Yellow onions provide a sweet, savory flavor. You can substitute with red onions for a slightly different taste.
  • Chopped greens from green onions (optional): Adding green onions is optional, but it adds a fresh, mild onion flavor. You can skip it or use fresh parsley instead.
  • 1 bell pepper (red or yellow preferred), chopped: Red or yellow bell peppers are sweeter. You can also use green bell peppers if you prefer a more earthy flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a fragrant, savory depth to the dish. If you love garlic, feel free to add more.
  • Kosher salt: Adjust the salt to your taste.
  • 1 pound ground turkey, preferably ground turkey thighs: Ground turkey thighs are more flavorful and juicy than breast meat, but you can use ground turkey breast if you prefer leaner meat.
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder: Chipotle powder adds a smoky kick, but you can substitute with chili powder or even paprika if you want a milder flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a refreshing note. You can use either, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

2. Cook the Ground Turkey:

  • Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, leaving the other side empty.
  • Add the remaining olive oil to the empty side of the pan.
  • Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up into chunks. Sprinkle with salt and chipotle or chili powder.
  • Let the turkey cook without stirring until it is browned on one side. Turn the pieces over to brown the other side, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Once the turkey is fully cooked, stir the vegetables back into the pan and mix everything together. Season with more salt and chili powder if necessary.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley or cilantro.

3. Serve:

  • Serve the ground turkey and peppers on its own, or with steamed rice or noodles for a more filling meal.

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Peppers

This dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Pair it with a side of rice for a more filling meal, or enjoy it as-is for a lighter option. It can also be served in taco shells or as a topping for salads.

How to Store Ground Turkey and Peppers

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Tips to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers

  1. Make it spicier: If you prefer more heat, add extra chipotle powder, red pepper flakes, or fresh jalapeños.
  2. Meal prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have quick and easy meals for the week.
  3. For added crunch: Serve with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top for a crunchy texture.

Variations

  • Low-carb: Skip the rice and serve this dish with cauliflower rice or on a bed of greens for a low-carb option.
  • Add veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach, for extra nutrients and flavor.
  • For more texture: Add black beans or corn to make the dish even heartier.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the turkey if you prefer, but keep in mind that ground turkey is leaner and will result in a lighter dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prep.

How do I know when the turkey is cooked through?
The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer, or it should no longer be pink when cut open.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey and Peppers is a healthy, quick, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a balance of savory turkey, crisp vegetables, and smoky spices, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Easy to make and full of flavor, this one-pan recipe is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation!

Ground Turkey and Peppers

A quick and healthy one-pan meal with lean ground turkey, bell peppers, onions, and smoky spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  

  • 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • Chopped greens from green onions optional
  • 1 bell pepper red or yellow preferred, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 pound ground turkey preferably ground turkey thighs
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Add remaining olive oil and ground turkey, breaking it into chunks. Season with salt and chipotle powder.
  • Brown the turkey on both sides, then stir in the vegetables. Season with more salt and chili powder to taste. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley or cilantro.
  • Serve with steamed rice or noodles, or on its own.

Notes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
This meal is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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