When you’re in search of a meal that’s both quick and packed with flavor, look no further than **Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers**. This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a symphony of colors and textures you’re bound to love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is a delightful combination of savory turkey and sweet peppers.
- Quick & Easy: You can whip up this meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean ground turkey, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite spices or veggies to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of **Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers** lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table, enhancing both the taste and the texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps to sauté the veggies to perfection.
- Chopped yellow onion: Provides a sweet and aromatic base for the dish.
- Bell pepper (red or yellow): Adds vibrant color, sweetness, and crunch.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with a depth of flavor we all love.
- Ground turkey (preferably thighs): Lean and flavorful, the star protein in this dish.
- Chipotle powder or chili powder: Offers a kick of spice that elevates the overall flavor.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: Freshens up the dish with a burst of herbal notes.
Variations
Feel free to make **Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers** your own by adjusting the ingredients according to your dietary needs or taste preferences. The recipe is wonderfully adaptable!
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you crave more heat.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute the turkey with crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Add more veggies: Incorporate zucchini or mushrooms for additional nutrients and texture.
How to Make Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and bell pepper, cooking until these veggies are soft. The aroma of onions and bell peppers sizzling in the pan is simply irresistible. Add the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds to bring out its full flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pan. On the empty side, add a bit more olive oil, then add the ground turkey. Sprinkle with salt and chipotle or chili powder, and allow it to brown. The secret is to let it cook without stirring too much, ensuring a crispy texture on the outside.
Step 3: Combine and Season
Once the turkey is browned and cooked through, mix in the sautéed vegetables. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and chili powder to your liking. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a refreshing lift.
Pro Tips for Making Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers
- Optimal Browning: Avoid stirring the turkey too soon. Let it brown well before turning to achieve the best texture.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or broth after browning the turkey.
- Herb Choice: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.
- Veggie Prep: Keep the veggies uniformly chopped for even cooking and presentation.
How to Serve Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a wonderful richness to your dish. Don’t forget a little extra fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor to top it all off.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fluffy quinoa. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it on a bed of whole grain pasta or alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation-wise, why not try serving the ground turkey and peppers in warm tortilla wraps or lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option? You can also use a hollowed-out bell pepper as an edible bowl to add an extra touch of flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors continue to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Freezing
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label with the date so you can enjoy it at its freshest.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to recreate that just-cooked texture and flavor.
FAQs
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Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will blend beautifully with the peppers and spices.
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How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili powder, or incorporate fresh chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat.
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What can I substitute for bell peppers?
You can use poblano peppers or even a mix of zucchini and squash as a creative alternative.
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Does this dish work well for meal prep?
Yes, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep as it stores well and the flavors continue to develop over time.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try **Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers**! It’s one of those dishes that truly feels like a warm hug – nourishing, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Give it a try, and let it become your next go-to meal delight!
Print
Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mom’s Ground Turkey and Peppers is a quick and flavorful skillet dish combining lean ground turkey with sautéed peppers and onions, seasoned with chili or chipotle powder, perfect for a wholesome and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Major Ingredients
- 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- Some chopped greens from green onions, if available (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow preferred), chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 pound ground turkey (preferably ground turkey thighs)
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Optional for Serving
- Steamed rice or noodles
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, cooking until soft and slightly caramelized, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
- Add the turkey: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add 1-2 more tablespoons of olive oil to the empty side of the pan for even cooking. Crumble the ground turkey into the pan, sprinkle with salt and chili or chipotle powder. Let the turkey brown without stirring for a few minutes, then flip to brown the other side, about 3-4 minutes total.
- Combine and finish cooking: Once the turkey is cooked through and browned, stir in the sautéed peppers and onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or chili powder if desired. Cook for another minute to meld flavors.
- Finish with herbs: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley or cilantro for freshness. Serve immediately, alone or over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Use ground turkey thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Adjust the chili or chipotle powder according to your spice preference.
- For a bit of heat, add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
- This dish can be easily doubled or halved depending on servings needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
