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
- 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.
- Sauté the Vegetables – Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Corn, Beans, and Tomatoes – Stir in corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.
- 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
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!
PrintGround Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato
- 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
- 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
-
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.
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
-
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.
-
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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