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!

Print

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

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Ground Turkey Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed one-pan meal featuring lean turkey, fresh zucchini, sweet corn, black beans, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in 30 minutes, packed with protein and fiber, and great for tacos, rice bowls, or meal prep!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Healthy

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (lean 93/7 preferred)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 medium zucchini (diced into small cubes)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained & rinsed)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for a little kick)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds depth, optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime (for brightness, optional but recommended)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

  • Cooked rice or quinoa (for a bowl-style meal)
  • Tortillas (for tacos or wraps)
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
  • Avocado slices
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess liquid if necessary.
  3. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add the Veggies & Spices

  1. Add zucchini, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet.
  2. Stir in salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender and flavors meld together.

Step 3: Finish & Serve

  1. Squeeze in lime juice and stir in fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Serve hot with rice, quinoa, tortillas, or as a standalone dish.

 

Notes

  • Spicy Version? Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño.
  • Make It Cheesy: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star