If you’re searching for an easy weeknight meal that bursts with color, flavor, and just the right kick of spice, look no further than Ground Turkey and Peppers. This dish comes together in one skillet, features tender, juicy ground turkey and sweet bell peppers, and packs a smoky, savory punch with every bite. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe will find a permanent place in your dinner rotation thanks to its simplicity and versatility.

Ground Turkey and Peppers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to Ground Turkey and Peppers, every ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of taste and texture. You’ll love how these everyday staples blend together for a satisfying, wholesome dish that dazzles in both flavor and vibrant presentation.

Ground turkey: The star protein, lean and quick-cooking, makes this dish hearty and nutritious.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the onions and turkey brown beautifully.
Onion: Brings a mellow sweetness and aromatic base to your skillet.

Bell peppers: Use red, yellow, or green for a colorful trio and delightful crunch.
Garlic: Three cloves is just enough to infuse every bite with irresistible zing.

Smoked paprika: Offers a subtle smokiness that upgrades simple turkey to something special.
Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth, rounding out the flavor profile.
Chili powder (optional): For a hint of heat; adjust to suit your family’s preference.

Salt: Essential for highlighting all the savory flavors.
Black pepper: Gives a touch of sharpness that ties everything together.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Moistens the mixture and helps the spices mingle seamlessly.

Tomato paste: Concentrates rich umami and helps create a delicious, thickened sauce.
Soy sauce or coconut aminos: Brings deep, wonderful savoriness and a dash of complexity.
Lime juice (optional): A splash at the end wakes up all the flavors for a lively finish.

Fresh cilantro or parsley: A final flourish of color and freshness atop your finished dish.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a generous swirl of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as the pan is hot, toss in your diced onions. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and begin to release their natural sweetness, about three minutes. Just before the onions are done, sprinkle in the minced garlic and stir for another thirty seconds. That magical aroma is your cue that flavor is building beautifully.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey straight into your skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon, taking a moment to admire how quickly it transforms from pale to golden and delicious. Keep moving the turkey around so it browns evenly and cooks through fully; you’re looking to banish any hint of pinkness, which will take about five or six minutes. This step is essential for developing richness and depth in your Ground Turkey and Peppers.

Step 3: Season and Add Peppers

Once your turkey is nicely browned, it’s time to sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if you’re going for a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat each morsel evenly with the spices, building a bold base for your dish. Pile the sliced bell peppers on top, and give everything a good mix. Let the peppers cook for a few minutes, just until they start to soften slightly but still have a satisfying crunch—this is where Ground Turkey and Peppers gets its irresistible texture and color.

Step 4: Add the Sauce Components

Now pour in the chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce, stirring gently to create a glossy, fragrant sauce that ties all the ingredients together. Let the pan simmer for two or three minutes, which allows all those gorgeous flavors to mingle and the sauce to thicken just enough to coat each bite perfectly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Finally, take your skillet off the heat and squeeze in some fresh lime juice for an extra spark of brightness. Scatter a handful of chopped cilantro or parsley over the top for vibrant color and herbal freshness. Serve your Ground Turkey and Peppers right away, while it’s still steaming and at its most irresistible!

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Peppers

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds both color and a bright, herby note to every serving. If you like, a few thin slices of extra lime or a sprinkle of sliced green onions can provide even more freshness and crunch. This final flourish brings your Ground Turkey and Peppers to life and makes it totally dinner-party worthy.

Side Dishes

This dish loves a sidekick! A bowl of fluffy steamed rice, nutty quinoa, or even cauliflower rice makes a perfect, cozy pairing and soaks up all those savory juices. If you crave something extra, try it tucked into a warm tortilla for a fajita-inspired meal, or spooned over a bed of crunchy lettuce for a lighter, lower-carb option.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful by stuffing the Ground Turkey and Peppers into halved bell peppers and baking them until tender, or layering it in a burrito bowl with black beans and a dollop of sour cream. For a crowd, serve it family style with a big platter of toppings—think avocado slices, shredded cheese, or even pickled jalapenos—so everyone can customize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Ground Turkey and Peppers, rest easy—this dish holds up wonderfully. Allow it to cool, then transfer to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making it ideal for meal prep and speedy lunches.

Freezing

Want to stash away a comforting meal for future you? Let the Ground Turkey and Peppers cool, then spoon it into freezer-safe containers or bags (removing as much air as you can). Label and date your stash; it’ll be good in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring your Ground Turkey and Peppers back to piping hot perfection, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a splash of broth or water. You can also pop it in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish—just give it a good stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps things light and tender, both ground chicken and beef work beautifully in this recipe. Just remember that beef is a bit richer, so you might want to drain off excess fat after browning.

What other vegetables can I add to Ground Turkey and Peppers?

Feel free to get creative! Diced zucchini, corn, or mushrooms are delicious additions and blend seamlessly into the flavor profile. Just add them at the same time as the bell peppers so they have time to soften slightly.

Is this recipe spicy?

With only a half teaspoon of chili powder (which is optional), Ground Turkey and Peppers is mild enough for most palates. If you love some heat, add more chili powder or toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeno.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the ground turkey with plant-based ground “meat” or even crumbled firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and adjust seasoning to taste. You’ll still get all the color and flavor this dish is known for.

What’s the best way to meal prep Ground Turkey and Peppers?

Double the recipe and portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches. You can keep it plain or pair each serving with rice, greens, or tortillas—either way, it heats up beautifully and keeps your weeknight dinners stress-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, full of flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion, you simply have to try Ground Turkey and Peppers. It’s a joyful mix of hearty, healthy, and entirely satisfying—so don’t be surprised if it becomes a household favorite after just one bite!