Print

Easy One-Pan Cheesy Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet

easy one-pan cheesy ground turkey zucchini skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy one-pan dinner featuring ground turkey, tender zucchini, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful skillet comes together in about 25 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 3 cups diced)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for salting zucchini)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the zucchini: Wash and dice zucchini into 1/2-inch cubes. Toss with 1/2 teaspoon salt and let sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry with a towel.
  2. Cook the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the ground turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes, then stir. Continue cooking until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Season the meat: Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper over the turkey. Stir and cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  5. Add zucchini and tomatoes: Add the diced zucchini and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine, spread into an even layer, and cook undisturbed for 3 minutes. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until zucchini is tender but not mushy.
  6. Add the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 2 minutes until cheese is melted and gooey. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a browned top.
  7. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Let sit for 1 minute before serving.

Notes

Salting the zucchini and letting it sit for 10 minutes is crucial to prevent a watery skillet. Shred your own cheddar cheese for the best melt. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free shredded cheese. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey zucchini skillet, one-pan dinner, cheesy zucchini skillet, easy weeknight dinner, low-carb skillet

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/easy-one-pan-cheesy-ground-turkey-zucchini-skillet/