Italian Turkey Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Comes together in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.

• Nutritious: Loaded with lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables.

• One-Pan Wonder: Simple cooking and easy cleanup.

• Family Friendly: Mild, familiar flavors that everyone will enjoy.

• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 pound lean ground turkey

• 1½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 (14.5 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

• 2 big handfuls baby spinach

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Cook the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.

3. Season the Meat: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

4. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the cannellini beans and fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Wilt the Spinach: Add the baby spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Pasta: Stir cooked pasta directly into the skillet for a more filling dish.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

• Change the Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula.

• Extra Veggies: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for more vegetable variety.

• Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well and can be used as a substitute without changing the cooking method.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, or any other vegetables you have on hand for extra nutrients and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all canned ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely, this dish keeps well in the fridge for several days and reheats nicely.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the skillet for extra heat.

What can I serve with this skillet?

It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, crusty bread, or even a simple green salad.

Can I use a different type of beans?

Yes, navy beans or kidney beans are good alternatives if you don’t have cannellini beans.

How do I keep the dish from getting too watery?

If needed, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to let any excess liquid evaporate.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, diced fresh tomatoes can be used. You may want to add a bit of tomato paste or sauce for extra richness.

Can I add cheese during cooking?

Yes, stirring in shredded cheese at the end can add a creamy, cheesy texture to the dish.

Conclusion

Italian Turkey Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and bold Italian flavors, it’s a go-to recipe that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, spices, or sides, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.