Description
This Zucchini & Ground Turkey Skillet with Ricotta is a quick and flavorful 20-minute meal perfect for busy weeknights. Lean ground turkey is browned and combined with tender zucchini and garlic, simmered in a rich marinara sauce, then topped with a creamy ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh basil mixture. A healthy, satisfying low-carb dish that delivers savory Italian-inspired flavors all from one skillet.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon no-salt-added Italian seasoning
- 3 medium zucchini, diced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ¼ cups good-quality marinara sauce (about a 15.5 ounce jar)
Toppings
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan, freshly grated
- ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Turkey: Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and Italian seasoning. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and mostly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. 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 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Increase heat to medium-high and cook until zucchini is just tender, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Simmer with Sauce: Return the cooked turkey to the skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: While the sauce simmers, mix ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh basil in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Turn off the heat. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the turkey and zucchini skillet, letting it softly melt into the warm sauce. Garnish with extra basil, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey (93% lean) for a healthier dish with less fat.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- The ricotta topping can be substituted with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium marinara sauce and adjust salt to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
