Ground Turkey and Peppers is a delicious and healthy meal that combines lean protein with colorful vegetables. This dish is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. With vibrant bell peppers and seasoned turkey, it’s a flavorful explosion that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, ground turkey is a lean protein option, making it a healthier choice for your meals. Third, this dish is flexible – you can use any bell peppers you have on hand and adjust the spices to your liking. It’s nutritious, tasty, and perfect for any dinner table!
How to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers
Making Ground Turkey and Peppers is simple. Follow these steps to create a satisfying meal:
Ingredients
- 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
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 3: Season and Add Peppers
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the turkey evenly with the seasonings. Add the sliced bell peppers and stir everything together. Let the peppers cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften but still retain some crunch.
Step 4: Add the Sauce Components
Pour in the chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and squeeze in the fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately, either on its own or with your favorite side!
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Peppers
Ground Turkey and Peppers can be served in many ways. Enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal, or serve it over rice, quinoa, or in tortillas. Pair it with a side salad for a complete dinner.
How to Store Ground Turkey and Peppers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers
- Use any color of bell peppers you prefer; they all add unique flavor and color to the dish.
- Feel free to adjust the spices based on your heat tolerance.
- To make this dish even heartier, consider adding black beans or corn.
Variation
For a dairy-free version, simply skip any toppings that include dairy. You can also add some cheese on top before serving if you prefer a creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, then the dish will be gluten-free.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve!