Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini, Corn, Black Beans, and Tomato

This ground turkey skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal made with lean turkey, fresh zucchini, sweet corn, black beans, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, packed with protein and fiber, and bursting with Tex-Mex-inspired flavors. Serve it on its own, over rice, or wrapped in tortillas for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
• Healthy and protein-packed – Loaded with lean turkey, beans, and fresh veggies.
• Versatile – Serve as is, with rice, in tacos, or as a filling for burritos.
• Quick and easy – Ready in 30 minutes or less.
• Meal-prep friendly – Great for leftovers and easy to store.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground turkey
• Zucchini, diced
• Corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• Black beans, drained and rinsed
• Tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Directions

1. Sauté the onions and garlic – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Cook the turkey – Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Season – Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add vegetables – Stir in the diced zucchini, corn, black beans, and tomatoes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender.
5. Finish and serve – Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle with shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese before serving.
• Make it Vegan – Replace turkey with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
• Extra Greens – Stir in spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Smoky Flavor – Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in portioned containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works well as a substitute.

Do I need to drain the tomatoes?

If using canned diced tomatoes, drain them slightly to avoid excess liquid.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it with rice, quinoa, tortillas, or on top of a salad.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep and reheats well throughout the week.

How do I prevent the zucchini from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook the zucchini—add it towards the end and cook until just tender.

What’s a good low-carb serving option?

Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps for a lower-carb meal.

Can I add bell peppers?

Yes! Diced bell peppers add sweetness and extra crunch.

How do I make this dish creamier?

Stir in Greek yogurt, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Can I use taco seasoning instead of individual spices?

Yes! Replace the spices with 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the onions, garlic, and turkey using the Sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes with a quick release.

Conclusion

This ground turkey skillet with zucchini, corn, black beans, and tomato is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, bold spices, and plenty of nutrients, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served in bowls, tacos, or with rice, it’s a satisfying and wholesome meal the whole family will love!

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