Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato

This Ground Turkey Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan meal packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and bold seasonings. With zucchini, corn, black beans, and tomatoes, this dish is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it on its own, over rice, or with tortillas for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup and easy to make.
  • Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and fresh veggies.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
  • Customizable – Serve over rice, in tacos, or as a burrito filling.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground turkey
  • Zucchini, diced
  • Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • Black beans, drained and rinsed
  • Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Directions

  1. Cook the Turkey – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables – Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Add Corn, Beans, and Tomatoes – Stir in corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.
  4. Adjust Seasoning & Serve – Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or more chili powder.
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheese or top with crumbled feta.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as is.
  • Mexican-Inspired: Wrap in tortillas for tacos or burritos.
  • Extra Protein: Add an egg on top or mix in quinoa.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.

How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?

Sauté the zucchini briefly to retain some crunch, and avoid overcooking.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes instead of canned.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with rice, tortillas, avocado slices, or a side salad.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground turkey with extra beans or tofu.

How can I add more flavor?

Try adding smoked paprika, a splash of lime juice, or fresh herbs.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just check that your seasonings and canned ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! Top with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crumbled feta.

How do I make this dish creamier?

Stir in a little Greek yogurt, sour cream, or avocado before serving.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you serve it on its own, in tacos, or over rice, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal in just 30 minutes!

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Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato

Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This one-pan ground turkey skillet is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh veggies. It’s a light, flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes—great for meal prep or a quick dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Juice of 1 lime (for brightness)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Cotija)
  • Avocado slices
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Tortilla chips or rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Turkey:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add ground turkey and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • Add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the Veggies & Seasonings:

    • Stir in zucchini, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with juices).
    • Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
    • Stir to combine and let cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Finish & Serve:

    • Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro.
    • Serve hot with tortilla chips, rice, or in taco shells!

Notes

Want more heat? Add a diced jalapeño or extra red pepper flakes.

Make it low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 4 days or freezes for 3 months.

 

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