Ground Turkey and Peppers – a quick and nutritious one-pan dinner
Introduction
This Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe is a simple yet flavorful one-pan dinner that fits perfectly into your healthy turkey recipes lineup. With lean ground turkey, vibrant bell peppers and bold seasoning, it’s a dish that comes together fast and keeps well for leftovers. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and satisfying.
Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients
- 3 to 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion, plus some chopped greens from green onions if available
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow preferred), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 pound ground turkey (preferably ground turkey thighs)
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
➜ Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
➜ Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring just until fragrant.
➜ Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, then add another tablespoon (or two) of olive oil in the empty space.
➜ Place the ground turkey into the pan (in the empty space) and cook without stirring until browned on one side, then turn and brown the other side. Season with salt and the chipotle or chili powder.
➜ Once the turkey is cooked through, stir the vegetables back in and mix everything together. Taste and adjust salt and seasoning if needed.
➜ Remove from heat, stir in the chopped parsley or cilantro, then serve hot.

Pro Tips
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes — you can cook the turkey and vegetables ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: What substitutions work?
A: If you prefer milder heat, swap chipotle powder for smoked paprika. You can also use ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey. Different colored bell peppers add visual variety and sweetness.
Q: How should I serve it?
A: This dish stands well on its own, but it’s also great served over steamed rice, quinoa or a bed of greens for a lower-carb option. Add a sprinkle of cheese or a side of avocado for extra richness if desired.

Nutrition Summary
This dish delivers lean protein and vibrant vegetables in a single skillet — a smart choice for anyone exploring healthy turkey recipes.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving (¼ of recipe) | approx. 451 kcal | ~30 g | ~9 g | ~34 g | ~2 g | ~4 g |
Nutrition facts are estimated.
Disclaimer
Nutrition facts are estimated and will vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
