Ground Turkey and Peppers Recipe

Get ready for a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. This Ground Turkey and Peppers skillet is a warm, simple, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anyone who wants an easy recipe with big taste. It’s a simple homemade meal that comes together quickly, uses affordable ingredients, and cleans up fast. If you like other quick ground meat ideas, try this Chinese ground beef and cabbage stir-fry for a different flavor profile. This version works well for families, meal prep, or anyone needing a comforting, protein-forward dinner.

Why This One’s a Keeper

This Ground Turkey and Peppers dish balances practical benefits with feel-good appeal. It’s fast to make, uses one pan to cut down on cleanup, and adapts easily to what you have on hand. The peppers add color and sweetness, while ground turkey keeps the dish lean and nutritious. Emotionally, it hits that cozy, homemade spot without fuss, a satisfying weeknight dish that tastes like you spent more time on it than you did.

Ground Turkey and Peppers

A warm and simple dinner made with ground turkey, bell peppers, and spices, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey lean or 85/15 for juiciness
• 2 pieces bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced adds sweetness and color
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced for depth of flavor
• 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh is best
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained slightly optional for a saucy version
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper optional, for heat
• to taste Salt and black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• as needed Cooked rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for serving

Method

 

Preparation

1. Slice the bell peppers and onion into even strips so they cook uniformly.
2. Mince the garlic and set out the spices. Have your rice or side ready if serving immediately.

Cooking

1. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When shimmering, add the onions and peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
2. Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground turkey. Break it up with your spoon and season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Stir garlic into the turkey and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. If using tomatoes, add them now and simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or with warm bread.

Notes

Brown the turkey well for more flavor; don’t crowd the pan. For more moisture, stir in a splash of chicken broth or a spoonful of tomato paste. To prevent sticking, make sure the oil is hot before adding ingredients. Consider various serving suggestions including tacos, baked potatoes, or salads.

Here’s what you’ll need to make Ground Turkey and Peppers:

• 1 lb ground turkey, lean or 85/15 for juiciness
• 2 bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced, adds sweetness and color
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced, for depth of flavor
• 2 cloves garlic, minced, fresh is best
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained slightly, optional for saucy version
• 1 tbsp olive oil, or avocado oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika, or regular paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano, or Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper, optional, for heat
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for serving, see suggestions below

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan (10-12 inches)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep

1. Slice the bell peppers and onion into even strips so they cook uniformly.
2. Mince the garlic and set out the spices. Have your rice or side ready if serving immediately.

Cook

3. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When shimmering, add the onions and peppers. Sauté 4-5 minutes until softened.
4. Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground turkey. Break it up with your spoon and season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Stir garlic into the turkey and cook 30-60 seconds until fragrant. If using tomatoes, add them now and simmer 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or with warm bread.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

• Brown the turkey well for more flavor; don’t crowd the pan.
• If peppers cook too slowly, cover the pan for 1-2 minutes to steam.
• For more moisture, stir in a splash of chicken broth or a spoonful of tomato paste.
• Swap ground turkey for chicken or lean beef if preferred.
• If mixture is bland, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of soy sauce to brighten it.
• To prevent sticking, make sure the oil is hot before adding ingredients.
• Overcooked turkey can dry out; remove from heat as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Want spice? Increase crushed red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Ground Turkey and Peppers over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Top with a fried egg for extra richness or crumble feta for tang.
• Add it to tortillas for quick tacos or spoon into baked sweet potatoes.
• For an Asian twist, finish with a drizzle of hoisin or soy sauce.
• Try pairing with a crisp green salad or roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.
• For another flavorful ground-meat bowl, consider this Korean ground beef bowl as a tasty companion idea.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• To freeze, cool completely, place in freezer-safe containers, and store up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth, or microwave until steaming, stirring halfway.

Nutrition Notes

Ground turkey provides a lean source of protein and pairs well with fiber-rich peppers and tomatoes. Swapping in whole grains and adding extra veggies boosts fiber and micronutrients. Season smartly to control sodium if watching intake.

Food Safety

Always cook ground turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce. Chill leftovers promptly within two hours to reduce bacterial growth.

FAQs

Conclusion

Give this a try, you may be surprised how quickly it becomes a favorite. If you want a classic reference or a slightly different take, check out Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers Recipe for inspiration. With its ease and versatility, this easy recipe and simple homemade meal makes a wonderful weeknight dish.