Protein-Packed Turkey & Veggie Skillet
A vibrant, one-pan wonder that’s full of flavor, color, and nutrients.
Looking for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Protein-Packed Turkey & Veggie Skillet is your go-to! Loaded with lean ground turkey, fresh seasonal veggies, and simple pantry spices, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes—and it’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and totally customizable depending on what you have on hand. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or when you just want to eat something that feels good.
Here’s a full recipe for a Protein-Packed Turkey & Veggie Skillet—a quick, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner!
Servings: 4
⏱ Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 yellow squash, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup baby spinach
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional topping)
Instructions:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic and sauté for about 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
Add bell pepper, zucchini, and yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
Toss in the cherry tomatoes, spinach, and seasonings (paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper). Stir to combine and let cook until spinach wilts—about 2 more minutes.
Drizzle with soy sauce and lemon juice, stir well, and cook for another minute to blend flavors.
Serve warm, topped with optional cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations:
Swap turkey with ground chicken or beef.
Add cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro to make it heartier.
Make it spicy with a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes.
For extra protein, crack an egg on top and cover until cooked to your liking!
Tips & Variations:
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to dial up the heat.
- Switch up the veggies: Try mushrooms, broccoli, kale, or even shredded carrots if you have them.
- Boost the fiber: Stir in canned black beans, lentils, or chickpeas.
- Add healthy fats: Top with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of hemp seeds, or a drizzle of tahini.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese at the end for a creamy, protein-boosted finish.
- Meal prep friendly: This keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully in a skillet or microwave.
- Serve it your way: Over rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or wrapped in lettuce cups or tortillas for a fun twist.
❓ Q&A: Protein-Packed Turkey & Veggie Skillet
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to sauté off excess moisture so the skillet doesn’t get watery. Frozen stir-fry blends work great.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Divide into containers with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for balanced grab-and-go meals.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
A: Definitely—swap ground turkey for a plant-based crumble, cooked lentils, or crumbled tofu. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, it’s completely gluten-free.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):
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Calories: ~290
-
Protein: ~27g
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Carbohydrates: ~10g
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Fiber: ~3g
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Sugars: ~5g (from natural veggie sugars)
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Fat: ~15g
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Saturated Fat: ~3g
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Sodium: ~400mg (adjustable depending on soy sauce)
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and exact measurements.