This Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. It’s packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and bold spices—all in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter or just want something fast and satisfying, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
My Nonna always believed that food didn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. And while she never made stir-fries like this, she would’ve loved how quickly it comes together and how nourishing it is for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor
- High in Protein – Thanks to lean ground turkey
- Naturally Gluten-Free – No added sauces needed
- Ready in 25 Minutes – From skillet to table fast
- Customizable – Add rice, noodles, or more veggies
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sauté Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Turkey
Add ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
3. Add Veggies
Stir in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Season
Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until flavors meld.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if using. Serve warm on its own, over rice, or in lettuce cups.
Make It Your Own
- Swap turkey for ground chicken, beef, or tofu
- Add zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra veggies
- Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chili paste
- Finish with a splash of soy sauce or coconut aminos for umami
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for better browning
- Slice vegetables evenly for quick, uniform cooking
- Use a nonstick or cast iron skillet for best results
- Meal prep-friendly—store in containers for up to 4 days
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for freshness
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine or basmati rice
- Spoon into lettuce cups for a low-carb option
- Add to tortillas for a taco-style dinner
- Pair with a simple cucumber salad or slaw
- Top with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt
Storage & Reheating
- Store: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze: For up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry is your go-to for busy nights when you still want something homemade, healthy, and full of flavor. With minimal ingredients and major taste, it’s sure to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Share Your Stir-Fry!
Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your spin! Tag @yourhandle and use #TurkeyPepperStirFry to show off your kitchen win.
Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 bell peppers sliced (any color)
- 1 onion sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté Garlic
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the Turkey
- Add ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
Add Veggies
- Stir in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Season
- Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until flavors meld.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if using. Serve warm on its own, over rice, or in lettuce cups.
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