Name: Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey, chicken, or beef; 1/2 cup Colby jack or cheddar cheese, shredded, divided; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced; 2 medium zucchini, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 x 14.5 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes; 2 Tbsps avocado oil or olive oil, divided; Sea salt and ground pepper, to taste; 2 tsps dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Cilantro, fresh; Lime wedges

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

The Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe is one of those all-in-one meals that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. It’s packed with lean ground turkey, vibrant veggies, and zesty seasonings that come together in a skillet to create a hearty, wholesome dish bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping ahead for busy lunches, this recipe combines simplicity and nutrition in a way that feels special every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a wooden cutting board filled with fresh, chopped vegetables, arranged in separate groups. On the top left are small, bright green broccoli florets with a detailed texture. To the right of the broccoli are medium cubes of zucchini with dark green skin and light green inside. Below the broccoli, at the bottom left, are finely diced white onions, and directly under those is a small pile of minced garlic, showing a soft texture. The sharp contrast between the green vegetables and white onions is clear against the wooden board. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its delicious profile. From fresh vegetables adding color and crunch to the savory ground turkey that brings protein and depth, every element is thoughtfully chosen to balance taste and texture.

Avocado oil or olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): These healthy oils provide a smooth base for sautéing and add subtle richness without overpowering the dish.
Large onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and a foundational flavor that softens beautifully when cooked.
Fresh garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the skillet with aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
Lean ground turkey (1 pound): A lean protein choice that cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors from the veggies and seasonings.
Sea salt and ground pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
Zucchini (2 medium, diced): Offers a tender, mildly sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the meat.
Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds vibrant green color plus a satisfying bite that’s full of nutrients.
Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): Brings a subtle earthiness that ties all the flavors together.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of herbaceous brightness to the skillet.
Fire-roasted tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Impart a smoky, tangy depth that makes the skillet pop with flavor.
Colby jack or cheddar cheese (1/2 cup shredded, divided): Melts to create a gooey, comforting topping that finishes the dish perfectly.
Cilantro and lime wedges (for garnish): Fresh herbs and citrus to brighten every mouthful and provide a delightful contrast.

How to Make Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Base Flavors

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of your chosen oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook it for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and stir as it becomes fragrant—this quick step forms the aromatic foundation that makes sure every bite is infused with savory goodness.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Add the lean ground turkey directly to the skillet once your aromatics are ready. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart while it cooks evenly and gains a lovely golden brown color. This step takes just a few minutes but is key for building the rich, hearty protein element that makes the Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe truly satisfying.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

With the turkey cooked and set aside briefly, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced zucchini and broccoli florets. Sauté these vibrant veggies until they are tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. This ensures that the veggies retain their texture and vibrant color to complement the meat.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked turkey to the skillet with the veggies, then stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes and dried herbs—oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat to medium and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly for a rich and concentrated sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese into the skillet and stir so it melts into the mixture, adding creamy, cheesy pockets of delight. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and let it melt gently for a few minutes more. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with bright lime wedges to add a fresh, zesty contrast to this cozy meal.

How to Serve Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe

The image shows a white pan filled with layers of cooked ground meat mixed with chunky pieces of bright green broccoli and light green zucchini with grilled marks, and red tomato sauce scattered throughout. On top, there is a layer of shredded pale yellow cheese that is starting to melt slightly. Near the bottom left, a wooden spoon is partially visible in the pan, blending some of the ingredients together. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a small part of a white bowl filled with shredded cheese visible in the upper left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple garnish can make all the difference. Fresh cilantro leaves add a pop of green and a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that complements the herbs and tomatoes beautifully. Lime wedges provide a bright splash of acidity that can be squeezed over the skillet to cut through the richness and lift every bite.

Side Dishes

This Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe is a complete meal, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside warm crusty bread, a crisp green salad, or a side of fluffy quinoa. Each one balances the skillet’s bold flavors with added texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop the skillet mixture into bell pepper halves or hollowed-out zucchinis for individual servings. You could also use it as a filling for whole-grain tortillas to make quick and tasty wraps, turning this easy skillet meal into a versatile dinner or lunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe keeps its flavor beautifully and makes for an easy next-day meal with minimal effort required.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, this skillet dish freezes very well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If it seems a bit thick, stirring in a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and bring back that fresh-from-the-skillet taste.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ground turkey with another meat?

Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps this dish lean and light, you can easily swap it for ground chicken, lean beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative depending on your preference or dietary needs.

What can I use if I don’t have fire-roasted tomatoes?

If fire-roasted tomatoes aren’t available, you can use regular canned diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes sautéed briefly. The fire-roasted variety adds a smoky depth, but other tomatoes still provide great flavor and moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely. This Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe is perfect for meal prep because it stores well, reheats easily, and remains delicious for several days. Prepare a batch ahead to enjoy quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.

Can I add more vegetables to the skillet?

Yes! Feel free to customize the skillet with your favorite veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly and stays vibrant.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and flavorful but not spicy. If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when simmering the tomatoes to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey and Veggie Skillet Recipe has quickly become a favorite go-to meal for busy days when you want something wholesome, delicious, and satisfying. With its wonderful blend of flavors, textures, and colors, it really shows how simple ingredients can come together to create comfort food you can feel good about eating. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!