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Healthy High-Protein Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet

healthy high-protein ground turkey zucchini skillet - featured image

A quick and easy skillet recipe combining lean ground turkey and tender-crisp zucchini, perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights. This healthy, high-protein dish is flavorful, nourishing, and naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis (about 8.8 oz each), sliced into half-moons
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (5.3 oz), halved (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 0.9 oz) (optional)
  • A handful of fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Slice the zucchini into half-moons about 1/3 inch thick. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes if using. (About 10 minutes prep)
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring frequently. Add minced garlic during the last 30 seconds and stir to avoid burning.
  4. Push the onions to one side, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the ground turkey. Break it up with a spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink and starting to brown. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Add the zucchini slices, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook uncovered for about 6 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp and golden.
  6. If using, stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 more minutes until softened but still holding shape.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and let it melt slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow turkey to brown properly. Cook zucchini until tender-crisp to prevent mushiness. If turkey is very lean, add a splash of broth or olive oil to prevent drying out. Let skillet rest a few minutes off heat before serving to meld flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before plating adds brightness. For dairy-free, omit cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast or toasted nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey, zucchini skillet, high protein, healthy dinner, meal prep, quick recipe, low carb, gluten free