This ground turkey and peppers skillet is one of those reliable dinners you’ll want on repeat. It’s quick to make, full of bold flavor, and comes together in one pan with simple ingredients you probably already have.
Healthy without feeling boring, it’s the kind of meal that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for meal prep.
Everyone leaves the table satisfied.
For Ground Turkey and Peppers
- Ground Turkey – A lean, high-protein base that cooks quickly and absorbs the seasonings beautifully without feeling heavy.
- Olive Oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and prevent sticking while adding a subtle richness.
- Onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth as it softens in the skillet.
- Bell Peppers – Bring color, crunch, and a mild sweetness that balances the savory turkey. Any mix of red, yellow, or green works well.
- Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor and adds a bold, savory backbone to the dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Gives a warm, slightly smoky flavor that makes the dish taste slow-cooked.
- Ground Cumin – Adds earthiness and a subtle spice that pairs perfectly with the peppers.
- Chili Powder – Optional, but great if you like a little heat.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; adjust to taste.
For the Sauce and Finish
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and helps create a light sauce without overpowering the dish.
- Tomato Paste – Concentrated and rich, this adds depth and a touch of acidity.
- Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos – Provides savory umami flavor; using low-sodium keeps the seasoning balanced.
- Lime Juice – Optional, but adds brightness and freshness right at the end.
- Fresh Cilantro or Parsley – Used as a garnish for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Delicious Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet
This quick skillet meal delivers big flavor without extra fuss. Lean ground turkey pairs beautifully with sweet bell peppers, warm spices, and a savory sauce that comes together in minutes.
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Servings: 4
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Calories: 280 | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 600mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g
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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, for heat)
- 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, for brightness)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Onion and Garlic
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, just until fragrant. - Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5–6 minutes, until fully cooked and no pink remains. - Step 3: Season and Add Peppers
Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until the turkey is evenly coated. Add the sliced bell peppers and mix well. Cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften slightly while keeping some texture. - Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend together. - Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze in the lime juice, if using. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. - Enjoy right away on its own or alongside your favorite side dish.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh, but also excellent for meal prep.
- Seasoning can be adjusted to suit your spice preference.
- For a saucier result, add a little extra chicken broth or a splash of tomato sauce.
- Leftovers are great in tacos, burrito bowls, or even spooned over a baked potato.
Calories: 280 | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 600mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g
- Can I use a different protein instead of ground turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken, beef, or a turkey–beef mix works just fine. Just make sure it’s fully cooked—no pink should remain. - How do I get softer bell peppers?
If you like your peppers a little more tender, cook them a few extra minutes with the lid on. This steams them lightly without turning them mushy. - What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can swap in vegetable broth or even water. Keep in mind water won’t add extra flavor, so you may want to adjust the seasonings a bit. - How spicy is this recipe?
This dish is mild by default. If you like heat, stir in extra chili powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. - Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chop the veggies and mix the spices in advance, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just sauté and finish the recipe—it saves time on busy nights.
