Ground Turkey and Peppers is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines lean protein with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. It’s not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal dish for a busy weeknight. Whether served on its own, over rice, or in a wrap, it’s versatile and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to make and packed with flavor. The ground turkey provides lean protein, while the bell peppers add a fresh, crisp texture. The seasoning blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder gives the dish a wonderful depth of flavor without being overly spicy. Plus, the optional squeeze of lime at the end brightens everything up. This meal is great for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste!

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

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

Directions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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!

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: You can add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and variety of the dish.
Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
Sauce Swap: If you prefer, replace the soy sauce with Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Protein Alternatives: Use ground chicken or lean ground beef instead of turkey.
Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly meal, serve the mixture in lettuce wraps instead of over rice.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing, and cook until they’re heated through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. Ensure that the soy sauce is labeled gluten-free or substitute with coconut aminos.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the lime juice and garnish. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh lime juice and garnish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over medium heat.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey and Peppers is a versatile, quick, and healthy dish that is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With its rich flavor profile and flexibility in ingredients, it’s a meal that can be adapted to suit any dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it as is or with a variation, it’s a delicious and wholesome option for any day of the week.