Ground Turkey and Peppers Dish

This hearty ground turkey and peppers dish has become my weeknight dinner savior when I need something nutritious yet satisfying in a hurry. The combination of lean protein with colorful bell peppers creates a meal that's as visually appealing as it is delicious, and the simple spice blend transforms ordinary ingredients into something truly special.

I first created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed quick healthy meals. My family was so impressed with how flavorful it was despite the minimal effort that it's now become our go to solution whenever we need a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey (1 lb): The star protein that absorbs all the flavors beautifully while staying lean. Look for 93% lean for the best balance of flavor and nutrition
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Creates the foundation for sautéing while adding a touch of richness
• Small onion, diced (1): Provides essential aromatic base. Choose yellow onions for their balanced sweetness
• Bell peppers (3 - red, yellow, or green, sliced): Adds color, nutrition, and slight sweetness. Mix colors for visual appeal and varied flavor notes
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Fresh is always best here
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Delivers a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Spanish varieties offer the most authentic flavor
• Ground cumin (1 tsp): Provides earthy warmth that complements the turkey perfectly
• Chili powder (½ tsp, optional for heat): Adds gentle spice without overwhelming. Adjust based on your heat preference
• Salt (½ tsp or to taste): Balances and enhances all other flavors
• Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds necessary background heat and depth
• Low sodium chicken broth (¼ cup): Creates moisture and prevents dryness while adding subtle flavor
• Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Concentrates umami richness and ties the flavors together
• Soy sauce or coconut aminos (1 tbsp): Brings savory depth and seasoning. Choose coconut aminos for a gluten-free option
• Juice of ½ lime (optional): Cuts through richness with fresh acidity
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish: Adds finishing color and herbaceous notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add the diced onions, spreading them evenly across the pan, and cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and translucent with slightly golden edges. Add the minced garlic evenly across the pan and stir continuously for just 30 seconds to prevent burning while releasing its aromatic qualities.

Brown the Ground Turkey:

Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon to maximize browning surface area. Continue breaking and stirring the meat, ensuring all pieces cook evenly for 5 to 6 minutes until no pink remains. Look for slight browning on some pieces which indicates developing flavor.

Season and Add Peppers:

Evenly sprinkle all seasonings directly over the turkey—smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat every piece of meat, ensuring even distribution of spices. Add the colorful sliced bell peppers and fold them into the seasoned turkey mixture. Allow everything to cook together for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure peppers soften slightly while maintaining their pleasant crunch and vibrant color.

Add the Sauce Components:

Pour chicken broth around the perimeter of the pan, allowing it to deglaze any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add tomato paste and soy sauce, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. Stir everything together and let the entire dish simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to intensify and harmonize.

Finish and Serve:

Turn off the heat and drizzle fresh lime juice over the entire dish, stirring gently to incorporate its brightness. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Generously sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, allowing the herbs to wilt slightly from the residual heat. Serve immediately in bowls, either on its own or alongside your preferred accompaniment.

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You Must Know

• Perfect for those following high-protein or low-carb eating plans
• Contains a full rainbow of nutritious vegetables in one simple dish
• Can be prepared ahead and reheated without losing quality
• Makes excellent planned leftovers for lunches

The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient that elevates this dish from ordinary to exceptional. I discovered this when I accidentally used twice the amount called for in an early version and found that the deeper smoky notes created a richness that makes the dish taste like it cooked for hours instead of minutes. Now my spice drawer always has a fresh tin ready to go.

Make Ahead and Storage

This ground turkey and peppers recipe shines as a meal prep champion. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days, maintaining both flavor and texture. When reheating, add a small splash of water or broth to revitalize the sauce. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to three months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish adapts to countless serving styles. For a complete meal, serve it over cauliflower rice for a low carb option or traditional brown rice for added fiber and substance. It also pairs wonderfully with quinoa, which adds complementary protein. For a lighter presentation, spoon it into butter lettuce cups for fresh handheld wraps. During cooler months, try serving it over creamy polenta or mashed sweet potatoes for ultimate comfort. The flavors also work beautifully as a filling for stuffed bell peppers if you want to elevate the presentation for guests.

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Simple Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute for turkey with nearly identical cooking times. For a heartier texture, try using ground beef with a lean to fat ratio of 85/15. Vegetarians can replace the meat with crumbled extra firm tofu or tempeh, adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for savory depth. If bell peppers aren't your favorite, substitute zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant cut into similar-sized pieces. For those avoiding soy, replace the soy sauce with coconut aminos or simply use additional salt and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for umami richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or quinoa, or can be used as a filling for tacos and burrito bowls.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I make this spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra chili powder, red pepper flakes, or fresh diced chili for an added kick.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include zucchini, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for more variety and nutrition.