Description
A quick and flavorful skillet recipe combining lean ground turkey and tender zucchini, simmered in marinara sauce and topped with a creamy ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh basil mixture. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that's ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein & Dairy
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan, freshly grated
Vegetables & Herbs
- 3 medium zucchini, diced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
Pantry Items & Seasonings
- 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon no-salt-added Italian seasoning
- 1 1/4 cups good-quality marinara sauce (about a 15.5 ounce jar)
- Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground turkey: Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and Italian seasoning. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through. Remove the turkey from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the zucchini: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, diced zucchini, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Increase heat to medium-high and cook until the zucchini is just tender, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Simmer with marinara sauce: Return the cooked turkey to the skillet with the zucchini. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer everything together for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
- Prepare ricotta topping: While the turkey and zucchini simmer, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and chopped basil in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Finish and serve: Turn off the heat. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the skillet, allowing it to melt slightly into the sauce. Garnish with extra basil, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey (93% lean) to keep this dish healthy and prevent excess grease.
- If fresh basil isn’t available, substitute with 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian herb blend.
- Red pepper flakes add a nice kick but are optional based on your heat preference.
- For a lower-carb option, zucchini can be increased and other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can be added.
- Leftovers keep well and taste great reheated the next day.
