This hearty ground turkey skillet comes together quickly with tender peppers, onions, savory seasonings, and optional rice for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a fantastic go-to when you need a wholesome dinner without the fuss. It cooks entirely in one skillet, making cleanup effortless and the entire process fast. The flavors come together beautifully thanks to the combination of sautéed vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and savory spices. It’s also easy to adapt based on what you have on hand—swap vegetables, adjust seasonings, or use a different ground meat. Plus, it freezes well, ensuring you always have a convenient meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the diced bell peppers and red onion for 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground turkey. Cook, breaking it apart as it browns, until fully cooked through.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the tomato paste, 3/4 cup tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
If using rice, stir it in and add additional tomato sauce as needed for desired consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. Top with shredded cheese and fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 25 minutes
Variations
Replace ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Make it spicier by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne.
Swap rice for cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Use smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper, more robust flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if needed, or warm in the microwave until heated through.
FAQs
How can I keep the turkey from drying out?
Use ground turkey with a bit more fat, such as 85/15, and avoid overcooking it once browned.
Can I make this recipe without rice?
Yes, the rice is completely optional. Serve it on its own, over quinoa, cauliflower rice, baked potatoes, or noodles.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the entire dish, cool it, and refrigerate. Reheat when ready to serve.
What type of skillet works best?
A 10–12 inch skillet is ideal. Cast iron or nonstick both work well.
Can I add tomatoes?
Yes, diced tomatoes make a great addition and add extra texture.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
It is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add cheese on top.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger skillet and double all ingredients.
How do I make it milder?
Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can I use frozen peppers and onions?
Yes, frozen pre-chopped vegetables work great and save time.
What can I serve this with?
Serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or over your favorite grain.
Conclusion
This Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner is fast, wholesome, and family-friendly—a dependable recipe you can easily customize to suit your preferences. With its one-pan convenience and rich, comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weeknight rotation.
This Simple Ground Turkey Skillet Dinner is a hearty, one-pan meal made with ground turkey, peppers, onions, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Optional rice and cheese make it flexible and satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the diced bell peppers and red onion for 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground turkey. Cook, breaking it apart as it browns, until fully cooked through.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the tomato paste, 3/4 cup tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
If using rice, stir it in and add additional tomato sauce as needed for desired consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. Top with shredded cheese and fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
Use frozen peppers and onions to save time.
Omit or reduce red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Replace rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb option.
This dish freezes well and is great for meal prep.
Add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
