Quick & Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers: Your New Weeknight Favorite

Ingredients for Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics and turkey. Provides a smooth cooking base, preventing sticking. Use extra virgin for best flavor.
• 1 pound lean ground turkey: The star protein of this Quick & Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers. Choose lean for a healthier, less greasy dish. Brown well for deep flavor.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: A foundational aromatic, building a sweet and savory base. Sauté until translucent for optimal flavor release. Don’t rush this step.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent, aromatic depth to the dish. Mince finely for even distribution of flavor. Be careful not to burn it.
• 1 large red bell pepper, cored and diced: Provides vibrant color, sweetness, and essential crunch. Its natural sugars caramelize beautifully. A key vegetable in “Ground Turkey and Peppers”.
• 1 large green bell pepper, cored and diced: Offers a slightly more bitter, earthy contrast to the red pepper. Adds another layer of texture and flavor. Don’t omit for balance.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Introduces moisture, acidity, and a rich tomato base. Undrained liquid helps create a saucy consistency. San Marzano are excellent.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that adds deep umami and richness. Sautéing it briefly enhances its sweetness. A secret flavor booster.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Creates a savory liquid base, keeping the turkey moist and helping flavors meld. Use low-sodium to control overall saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex, savory, umami-rich depth. A little goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Another umami powerhouse, balancing flavors and adding a salty kick. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor. Essential for that comforting, savory spice profile. Freshly ground is always best.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a beautiful red hue and a mild, smoky depth. Enhances the overall savory experience of the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: The most essential seasoning, enhancing all other flavors. Adjust to your preference after cooking. Taste and adjust often.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a subtle warmth and mild spice. Freshly ground black pepper offers the best aroma and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a bright, herbaceous finish and a pop of color. Stir in at the very end for maximum freshness.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional: Offers a gentle heat and a subtle kick. Adjust to your desired spice level for a personalized touch.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick

Prep Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Brown Turkey:

Push the aromatics to one side of the skillet. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Veggies:

Stir the browned turkey and aromatics together. Add the red and green bell peppers, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, combining everything for your Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick.

Build Flavor:

Stir in the tomato paste, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Simmer Dish:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the peppers to tenderize and the sauce to thicken slightly, developing a rich consistency.

Finish & Serve:

Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve your delicious Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick warm over rice or as a standalone meal.

How to Store Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick

To store your Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long, otherwise, it can spoil quickly – trust me, I’ve had to toss a batch or two. Always check for an off-smell or slimy texture as signs of spoilage.

For make-ahead convenience, you can dice your onions and bell peppers up to two days in advance. Cook the turkey and peppers fresh on the day you plan to eat. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve with Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick

This “Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick” is incredibly versatile! Serve it warm as a hearty standalone meal, or for a complete dinner, pair it with fluffy white rice or quinoa. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch, making it perfect for a weeknight or casual gathering. Enjoy this satisfying dish with a simple green salad for a lighter option.

My absolute favorite way to enjoy this dish is over a bed of warm, fluffy basmati rice. The rice perfectly soaks up all the savory sauce, creating a truly comforting and complete meal that I look forward to every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground beef or different vegetables in Quick & Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers?

Yes, you can! Ground beef works well, just drain extra fat. Feel free to swap bell pepper colors or add zucchini for variety. I’ve tried adding mushrooms too, which adds an earthy depth. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly.

→ How do I prevent a watery sauce in my Quick Ground Turkey & Peppers?

Ensure you drain any excess fat from the turkey after browning, as mentioned in step 2. Also, don’t skimp on the simmer time in step 5; this allows the sauce to thicken naturally. I’ve learned a good simmer makes all the difference!

→ Can I make this Quick & Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The recipe already suggests using tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Just double-check all other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce to ensure they are certified gluten-free. I’ve made it this way many times without issue.

→ How long can I store leftover Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick in the fridge?

You can safely store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always refrigerate promptly after cooling to prevent spoilage. I’ve forgotten it out before and had to toss it, so don’t make my mistake!

→ Can I freeze Ground Turkey and Peppers – Quick for future meals?

While the recipe doesn’t explicitly mention freezing, you can usually freeze cooked ground turkey and pepper dishes. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently from frozen or thawed. It often works out, but sometimes peppers can be a bit softer.