Are you looking for healthy meal ideas that are quick, easy, and delicious? Look no further! Ground turkey and zucchini are a match made in heaven, offering a lean protein source and a nutritious vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the two ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
From classic skillet dinners to creative tacos and burgers, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a health-conscious foodie seeking new inspiration, these ground turkey and zucchini recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the endless possibilities of this dynamic duo!
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With its simple preparation and healthy ingredients, it’s a great option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the sliced zucchinis, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
5. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Stuffed with Ground Turkey
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the natural sweetness of zucchinis with the savory taste of ground turkey. This dish makes for a great main course or side dish, and can be easily customized to suit your tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each zucchini shell with the turkey mixture, topping with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful and healthy meatballs made with ground turkey, zucchini, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for serving as an appetizer or adding to pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or enjoy as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of zucchini, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced zucchini, minced garlic, soy sauce, chili flakes, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry until the zucchini is tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Lasagna
This flavorful lasagna combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the sweetness of zucchini and ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey with onion and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add diced zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and marinara sauce.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked noodles, turkey-zucchini mixture, and ricotta-sauce mixture.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Casserole
This casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of zucchini complementing the savory ground turkey. It’s an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan, sauté sliced zucchinis until tender.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked turkey mixture, marinara sauce, and sautéed zucchini.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines the richness of ground turkey with the sweetness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a spicy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, followed by the ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the zucchini, onion, jalapeño, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey-zucchini mixture into each shell.
7. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Ground Turkey Bolognese
This classic Italian-inspired dish gets a healthier twist by substituting traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, also known as “zoodles.” This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by spiralizing a fresh zucchini and sautéing it in a little olive oil until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve ground turkey bolognese over zucchini noodles and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Soup
This hearty and healthy soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Ground turkey adds protein and flavor, while zucchini adds moisture and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced zucchini, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Bake
A hearty, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines ground turkey with sautéed zucchini, onions, and cheese for a deliciously comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add sliced zucchini and cook until tender.
5. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Combine cooked turkey mixture with cheese mixture and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Stuffed Peppers
Add a nutritious twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this flavorful and healthy recipe. Ground turkey, zucchini, and cheese come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the zucchini, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Frittata
This Zucchini and Ground Turkey Frittata is a delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of zucchini, ground turkey, and cheese. Perfect for a quick meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1/2 pound ground turkey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the diced zucchini, chopped onion, and olive oil to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the turkey and vegetable mixture in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set.
7. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and chopped parsley (if using). Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Burgers
These moist and flavorful burgers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option. By incorporating zucchini into the mixture, you’ll add natural sweetness and moisture to your patties.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings (e.g., cheese, lettuce, tomato)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Grill burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve immediately on your favorite bun with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Curry
This flavorful and healthy curry is a great way to enjoy the taste of zucchini and ground turkey together. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the zucchini, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey, sautéed zucchini, and mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying shepherd’s pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, zucchini, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the turkey mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Stir-Fry with Rice
A quick and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the savory taste of ground turkey, all wrapped up in a nutritious package. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced zucchinis, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Serve the turkey and vegetable mixture over cooked white rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines juicy ground turkey with sautéed zucchini and crunchy lettuce leaves. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated zucchini to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm large lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Spoon the turkey-zucchini mixture onto the lettuce leaves and wrap up.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Pizza Boats
Transforming pizza night into a nutritious and delicious experience! These Zucchini and Ground Turkey Pizza Boats are an innovative twist on traditional pizzas, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise, scoop out centers, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey-pizza mixture, dividing evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Pasta Sauce
This hearty pasta sauce combines the flavors of ground turkey, zucchini, and herbs to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add diced zucchini; cook until tender.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve over cooked pasta; top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and healthy twist on classic stuffed mushrooms! This recipe combines the savory goodness of ground turkey, zucchini, and mushrooms for a deliciously satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped zucchini and cook until tender.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey-zucchini mixture, leaving a small border at top.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and garlic on top of each stuffed mushroom.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 delicious ground turkey and zucchini recipes! From hearty casseroles to flavorful stir-fries, and from savory meatballs to healthy burgers, this collection has something for everyone. Try Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner or Zucchini Stuffed with Ground Turkey for a satisfying main course. Or, if you’re in the mood for something Italian-inspired, whip up some Ground Turkey and Zucchini Lasagna or Zucchini Noodles with Ground Turkey Bolognese. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a recipe here to satisfy!
