Ground Turkey and Peppers Recipe | Easy, Healthy Skillet Dinner in 30 Minutes

Introduction

Ground Turkey and Peppers is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. Inspired by comforting classics like “Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers” from Simply Recipes, and easy weeknight staples from FAS Kitchen and Recipe Rave, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

Lean ground turkey is sautéed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then seasoned with just the right amount of spice. It’s a flexible recipe that can be served on its own, over rice or quinoa, or tucked into wraps or lettuce cups for a lighter option. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s a go-to for meal preppers and home cooks alike.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish is a satisfying, budget-friendly favorite that’s easy to customize and even easier to love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe is a weeknight hero. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when time is short but you still want something wholesome and homemade. With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you’ll have a colorful, protein-packed meal on the table in no time.

It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice, or stuff it into wraps, tacos, or lettuce cups for a low-carb twist. The combination of lean turkey and vibrant bell peppers makes it both nutritious and satisfying.

Budget-conscious? This recipe stretches a pound of ground turkey into multiple servings, and you can easily bulk it up with extra veggies or grains. It’s also great for meal prep—just portion into containers and reheat throughout the week.

Tip: Add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of cheese to switch up the flavor profile.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple and satisfying dish:

Core Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder or paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1–2 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami depth
• ½ cup diced tomatoes for a saucier texture
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa to make it a one-pan bowl
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish and brightness

This combination of lean protein and colorful vegetables makes for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal. The chili powder or paprika adds a gentle kick, while garlic and onion provide aromatic depth. Bell peppers bring natural sweetness and crunch, making every bite vibrant and flavorful.

Tip: For extra richness and flavor, use ground turkey thighs instead of breast meat. They’re still lean but offer more moisture and taste.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers

Follow these simple steps for a quick and delicious one-pan dinner:

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and translucent.
3. Brown the turkey: Add 1 lb of ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until fully browned and no longer pink.
4. Add the peppers: Stir in the sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, and green). Cook for another 5–7 minutes, until the peppers are tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Season: Sprinkle in 1 tsp chili powder or paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
6. Optional enhancements: Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for extra depth, or stir in diced tomatoes for a saucier finish.
7. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—use a large skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming. If needed, cook in batches.

Serve hot as-is, or spoon into bowls, wraps, or lettuce cups for a customizable meal. It’s also great over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete dish.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Protein swaps: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
• Mediterranean twist: Add sliced olives, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor.
• Asian-style: Use sesame oil instead of olive oil, and season with soy sauce, green onions, and a dash of rice vinegar.

This dish also makes a great base for bowls—just add grains, greens, and your favorite sauce (like tahini, tzatziki, or sriracha mayo) for a complete meal.

Tip: Double the batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.