Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a nourishing, one-pan wonder that’s full of color and bursting with flavor, this Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet will instantly become your new weeknight favorite. Juicy ground turkey, fresh bell peppers, a savory tomato base, and just enough spices to wake up your taste buds—this skillet is speedy, satisfying, and so easy you’ll want to make it again and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the joy of this Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet is just how approachable the ingredients are—each one plays a starring role in bringing out gorgeous color, juicy texture, and vibrant flavor. Here’s the simple lineup that makes every bite sing!

• Ground turkey (1 lb): Lean but packed with flavor, this forms a protein-rich base and soaks up all those delicious sauces and spices.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Locks in juiciness and gives your veggies a flavorful head start.
• Green & yellow bell peppers (1 each, diced): These peppers add crunch, color, and a sweet, mellow bite—feel free to use red or orange if that’s what you have.
• Red onion (½, diced): For gentle oniony warmth and a beautiful pop of color.
• Tomato paste (3-4 tbsp): Thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato flavor.
• Tomato sauce (¾-1 cup): Brings everything together into a savory, sippable skillet sauce.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Or use garlic powder for convenience—the aromatic backbone for this skillet.
• Worcestershire sauce (1½ tbsp): Adds that magical umami, almost steakhouse richness to the mix.
• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning (½-1 tsp): Delivers classic Mediterranean flair and brings those veggies to life.
• Red pepper flakes (¼-½ tsp): For a subtle heat—adjust to taste!
• Cracked pepper & sea salt: Essential for seasoning every element to perfection.
• Cooked rice (1–1½ cups): Optional, but it makes the dish extra hearty and soak-up-the-sauce delicious (or skip it for a low-carb version).
• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping): Melty cheese on top? Always a yes for that creamy, golden finish!

Variations

One of my favorite things about making this skillet is how easy it is to change things up. The Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet is practically begging for your own twist—so dive into your fridge or pantry and get creative!

• Swap the meat: Not feeling turkey? Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles slide right into this skillet without missing a beat.
• Change up the veggies: Toss in zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or whatever you need to use up—this recipe is super forgiving.
• Low-carb version: Simply skip the rice or swap it for cauliflower rice for a lighter, grain-free dinner that’s still hearty.
• Cheese it up: Anything from cheddar and Monterey Jack to smoky gouda will melt beautifully on top—try your favorite!

How to Make Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your diced onions and bell peppers, stirring occasionally for 2-3 minutes until they’ve started to soften and smell absolutely wonderful. Toss in the garlic (or sprinkle in garlic powder) and give everything another minute—this is where the skillet magic truly begins!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, then add the ground turkey. Break it up with your spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink—about 5-6 minutes is perfect. Once it’s cooked through, mix the veggies right back in so everything’s cozy and combined.

Step 3: Flavor & Simmer

Turn the heat down to low and stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce (start with ¾ cup and add more later if you love it saucy), Worcestershire sauce, your chosen herbs, red pepper flakes, cracked pepper, and salt. Stir well so every bite is beautifully flavored. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes—your kitchen will smell incredible!

Step 4: Add Rice and Cheese

If you’re adding rice, this is your moment—stir it in and let everything heat through, adding more tomato sauce if needed for extra moisture. Taste and adjust the seasoning, then scatter shredded cheese over the top and cover until everything is deliciously melty.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Top your Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Grab your plates, dig in while it’s piping hot, and enjoy that cozy, home-cooked goodness in every bite!

How to Serve Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley brings bright, garden-fresh flair to the Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet. If you’re all about that creamy finish, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese or even a dollop of Greek yogurt is totally welcome here. Chopped green onions or a shake of chili flakes will give it a little kick and punch of color if you’re feeling fancy!

Side Dishes

This skillet is a meal on its own, but if you want to round things out, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette or simple roasted veggies. Fluffy dinner rolls or garlic bread are the perfect finishing touch for soaking up all the flavorful sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

You can make dinner extra fun by spooning your Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet into roasted bell pepper halves for a colorful “stuffed” twist. Or, try piling it over baked sweet potatoes or scooping it into lettuce wraps for a hearty yet light presentation the whole family will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet is even better the next day! Just transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, making lunch a real treat.

Freezing

This skillet freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed. It’s perfect for meal prep or busy weeks!

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat until hot, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if it seems dry. The microwave works well for individual portions—just cover and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that checks the boxes for easy, comforting, and downright delicious, go ahead and give this Simple Ground Turkey Pepper Skillet a spot in your regular rotation. Every panful is packed with flavor and fresh ingredients, so I hope you’ll love it as much as my family does. Let me know how you make it your own and enjoy every last bite!

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