There’s something truly comforting about a meal that’s both healthy and packed with flavor. That’s exactly what I get with this Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe. It’s easy, versatile, and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether I’m looking for a high-protein, low-carb meal or a satisfying dish to serve over rice or pasta, this one is a winner. Ground Turkey and Peppers: A Flavorful, Healthy, and Quick Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutritious: Made with lean ground turkey and fresh bell peppers, this dish is packed with protein, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes!
Versatile: I can serve it on its own, over rice, in a taco, or stuffed into a wrap.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients I likely already have in my kitchen.
Meal-Prep Friendly: I make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground turkey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
Juice of ½ lime (optional, for brightness)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Turkey
I add the ground turkey to the skillet. Using a wooden spoon, I break it up into small pieces. I cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
Season and Add Peppers
I sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. I stir to coat the turkey evenly with the seasonings. Then, I add the sliced bell peppers and stir everything together. I let the peppers cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften but still retain some crunch.
Add the Sauce Components
I pour in the chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce. I stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finish and Serve
I turn off the heat and squeeze in the fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor. I garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. I serve immediately, either on its own or with my favorite side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetables: I add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice Level: If I like it spicy, I add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Sauce Variations: I swap soy sauce for Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for a different depth of flavor.
Protein Swap: I use ground chicken or lean ground beef instead of turkey.
Low-Carb Version: I serve in lettuce wraps instead of rice.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: I reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, I let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. I thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with Ground Turkey and Peppers?

I serve it over rice, pasta, in a wrap, or over a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, to adapt this recipe for a slow cooker:

I brown the ground turkey in a skillet first.
I transfer it to a slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients.
I cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until flavors meld together.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally dairy-free and can easily be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or time-consuming. With minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes, I have a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.