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Ground Turkey and Peppers: A Quick, Healthy Skillet Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning & Sauce

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for mild heat)
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust 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)

For Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Build the Base
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just until fragrant.
  • Cook the Turkey
    Add the ground turkey and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5–6 minutes until no longer pink. You’ll notice the mixture start to brown slightly—that’s where the flavor deepens.
  • Add Seasonings
    Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the turkey is evenly coated. This is the moment your kitchen starts smelling incredible.
  • Add the Peppers
    Toss in the sliced bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes, just enough to soften them slightly but keep a bit of crunch. The color contrast here is half the joy of this dish.
  • Simmer the Sauce
    Pour in the chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.
  • Brighten & Finish
    Turn off the heat and squeeze in fresh lime juice for that clean, zesty finish. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top, and you’re done.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Chop your veggies up to 2 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Dinner comes together even faster.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Cook the full recipe, let it cool completely, and freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.
  • Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve the turkey-pepper mix in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
  • For Kids: Reduce or skip chili powder and add a sprinkle of mild shredded cheese for extra appeal.
Keyword healthy