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A colorful and hearty family-friendly ground turkey meal served on a plate.

Versatile Budget-Friendly Ground Turkey Skillet

This versatile ground turkey skillet is a budget-friendly and delicious meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor and can be easily customized with your favorite additions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey (93/7 lean recommended)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil (or any cooking oil)
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup Chicken or Vegetable Broth
  • 1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning (or preferred blend)
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Optional additions for budget tips
  • 1 cup cooked lentils or black beans
  • Frozen mixed vegetables
  • Pasta, rice, or tortillas for serving

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • pot

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the ground turkey until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon and draining any excess fat.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened; stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes and broth, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; add cooked lentils or beans now if desired.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens.
  5. Taste the dish and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
  6. Ladle the ground turkey meal over your chosen base, such as pasta or rice, and serve.

Notes

This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to substitute vegetables, add different spices, or serve it with various bases to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. It's a great way to use up ingredients and reduce food waste!