Ground Turkey and Peppers Skillet

This Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe is my weeknight lifesaver whenever I want something quick wholesome and big on flavor without fussing too much at the stove. It strikes the perfect balance between healthy and hearty so I can whip it up after a long day yet never sacrifice on taste or satisfaction.

I made this dish for the first time without a plan on a night I was short on time and groceries. My family now expects it at least once a week and I never get tired of how adaptable it is.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: brings lean protein and a mild base for soaking up all the spice Choose the freshest package for tenderness
• Olive oil: adds moisture and helps brown the ingredients Cold-pressed olive oil gives a richer flavor
• Onion: sweetens the mix as it cooks and builds foundational flavor Look for a firm small onion with papery skin
• Bell peppers: provide vibrant color crunch and natural sweetness Use a trio for the best flavor medley Pick firm shiny peppers with no soft spots
• Garlic: gives a savory aromatic punch Choose plump cloves for the brightest flavor
• Smoked paprika: creates subtle smoky warmth Opt for genuine Spanish smoked paprika if you can
• Ground cumin: delivers earthiness and depth Check the aroma for freshness
• Chili powder: gives a gentle heat Use sparingly or skip if heat is not your thing A fresh bottle is best for zing
• Salt and black pepper: enhance and balance the overall flavors Grind fresh if possible for best results
• Low-sodium chicken broth: brings moisture and binds the sauce Pick broth with clean ingredients and low added sodium
• Tomato paste: gives umami richness and thickens the sauce Go for double-concentrated tubes for deep taste
• Soy sauce or coconut aminos: boost savoriness and integrate the flavors Coconut aminos are a great gluten free swap
• Lime juice: brightens everything Adds a fresh zesty finish Use a juicy in-season lime
• Fresh cilantro or parsley: delivers herbal lift for the final garnish Use leafy bright bunches

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Gently warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add diced onion and stir regularly allowing it to soften and turn translucent over roughly three minutes Add the minced garlic and continue to stir for about thirty seconds The scent should become more intense and fragrant This slow sauté unlocks the sweetness and amplifies flavor complexity

Brown the Ground Turkey:

Place ground turkey into the skillet Break it up with a wooden spoon aiming for small crumbly pieces Cook it until all pinkness disappears and it begins to brown which usually takes five to six minutes A little browning catches flavor on the pan’s bottom so scrape these bits as you stir

Season and Add Peppers:

Once turkey is fully cooked sprinkle in the smoked paprika cumin chili powder salt and pepper Give it a thorough stir to color the turkey evenly Add in the sliced bell peppers and toss to coat Let them cook uncovered for three to four minutes You want peppers slightly softened but still with snap for texture contrast

Add the Sauce Components:

Pour in chicken broth tomato paste and soy sauce Stir this mixture well so every bit is coated by the sauce Flavor will develop in these two to three minutes of gentle simmer Keep the heat moderate so nothing burns and the liquid reduces a little

Finish and Serve:

Once everything is fragrant and coherent take the pan off the heat Squeeze fresh lime over the dish Stir in freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for brightness Serve hot and enjoy right away either as is or with your favorite accompaniments

Pin it

My favorite ingredient in this recipe is smoked paprika It takes the dish to a different level adding a complexity I love My kids always fight for the brightest red pepper strips and it sparks lively chat at the table

Storage Tips

This meal keeps beautifully in a tightly sealed container for three days in the fridge If you need it longer portion individual servings and freeze for up to two months I like to reheat in the skillet with a splash of broth which restores the sauciness without drying out the turkey

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground chicken works just like turkey and keeps the meal lean If you are after beefier flavor try lean ground beef Just be sure to drain excess fat You can use any trio of peppers or even swap in zucchini strips if you are low on peppers Coconut aminos is a great substitute if you need to avoid soy sauce

Serving Suggestions

For maximum comfort spoon the turkey and peppers over fluffy rice It also makes a vibrant filling for tacos tostadas or stuffed inside a baked potato Sometimes I serve it over noodles with a sprinkle of cheese for that extra cozy touch

Cultural Context

Ground turkey is a newer spin on classic pepper stir fry which you will spot in many cuisines Italian Hungarian and Mexican This version borrows the smoky notes of paprika and builds an easy weeknight meal that bridges global flavors with familiar comforts

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I add extra heat to this dish?

Add more chili powder or toss in diced jalapeño along with the bell peppers for extra spice.

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well and cooks similarly. Adjust seasoning to taste as needed.

→ What sides pair well with this skillet meal?

It’s great with rice, quinoa, pasta, or even tucked into tortillas for a handheld option.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely for lunches or easy dinners midweek.

→ How do I keep the bell peppers crisp?

Cook peppers until just tender but still vibrant, adding them once the turkey is browned.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. No dairy required.