Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry Recipe

Looking for a healthy, flavor-packed, and quick dinner idea? This Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry Recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Not only is it budget-friendly and kid-approved, but it’s also endlessly versatile. You can serve it with rice, noodles, or even tucked into lettuce wraps. Plus, it’s packed with protein and vitamins thanks to the lean ground turkey and vibrant bell peppers.

Want to understand the nutritional benefits of bell peppers? According to The World’s Healthiest Foods, bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber — all of which support a strong immune system and digestive health.

And if you’re wondering whether ground turkey is a smart protein swap, the USDA’s nutrient profile shows that it’s lower in saturated fat than beef, but still delivers plenty of protein — perfect for lean muscle support and energy.

Why You’ll Love This Stir-Fry

• Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
• Low-carb and high-protein
• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
• Great for meal prep or weeknight dinners
• One pan = minimal cleanup
• Flexible for dietary needs: dairy-free, gluten-free, or low-carb

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this easy stir-fry to life:

• 1 lb ground turkey (preferably turkey thighs for more flavor)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
• 1 tsp chipotle powder (or chili powder for milder heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Optional: sliced mushrooms, green onions, shredded cheese, soy sauce, or hot sauce

Tip: Use different colored bell peppers to boost visual appeal and get a wider range of nutrients.

Kitchen Tools

• Large non-stick skillet or wok
• Wooden spatula
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring spoons
• Bowl for prep

How to Make Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry

1. Prep Your Ingredients

• Wash and chop all vegetables.
• Mince garlic and measure out your seasonings.
• Set everything within arm’s reach for a smooth cooking process.

2. Sauté Aromatics

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
• Add the garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Brown the Turkey

• Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add a bit more oil if needed.
• Crumble the ground turkey onto the empty side and sprinkle with chipotle powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Let it cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a good sear.
• Flip and cook through completely, about 7–8 minutes total.

4. Combine and Finish

• Stir vegetables and turkey together.
• Taste and adjust seasoning.
• Cook for 1–2 more minutes to let flavors meld.
• Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro.

5. Serve It Up

Serve immediately or pack into containers for meal prep. This dish pairs well with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Soba or rice noodles
• Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)
• Stuffed in baked potatoes
• Wrapped in lettuce cups

Variations to Try

Mix things up with these easy twists:

• Add sliced mushrooms or shredded zucchini
• Swap turkey for ground chicken, pork, or tofu
• Add a splash of soy sauce, sriracha, or teriyaki glaze for an Asian flair
• Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese for a creamy version
• Throw in a handful of baby spinach or kale at the end for extra greens

How to Store & Reheat

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight
• Reheating: Microwave or heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 34g
• Carbs: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Vitamin C: 273% DV
• Iron: 16% DV

Note: Using turkey breast instead of thighs will reduce the fat content.

Common Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes! Thaw and pat dry first to avoid soggy stir-fry.

How do I make it spicier?
Use more chipotle powder, add crushed red pepper flakes, or finish with hot sauce.

Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat instead of turkey.

What kind of rice pairs best?
Jasmine, basmati, or brown rice all work well. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Why is my ground turkey dry?
Avoid overcooking, and use turkey thighs which have more fat and flavor.

Reader Variations We Love

• JoAnne: “Added 1 cup of shredded cheese and cream cheese – so creamy and rich!”
• Maddie: “Stuffed it in a baked potato with sour cream – total comfort food.”
• Cordlyn: “Added jerk sauce and green onions – flavorful and spicy.”
• Dale: “Mushrooms + pesto = gourmet!”
• Cindy: “Leftover bacon added serious umami.”

Stir-Fry Cooking Tips for Beginners

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed
• Let turkey brown undisturbed to develop flavor
• Taste and season as you go
• Add a splash of broth or soy sauce if mixture looks too dry

Want to dive deeper into the technique? Here’s a guide to stir-frying techniques from Serious Eats that covers heat levels, oil selection, and movement in the pan.

Try These Related Recipes Next

• Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
• Spicy Turkey with Zucchini
• Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
• Turkey Fried Rice
• Turkey and Broccoli Skillet

Final Thoughts

This Easy Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry is more than just a simple recipe — it’s a reliable go-to for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, and family dinners. With just a few ingredients and one skillet, you can serve something wholesome, hearty, and delicious in no time.

Feel free to experiment with spices, vegetables, or sauces — this dish welcomes creativity. And don’t forget to double the batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.