Easy Dinner Using Ground Turkey and Spinach

A simple, satisfying meal built on lean protein, greens, and vegetables that comes together on a weeknight.

Ground turkey is a weeknight workhorse—mild, versatile, and quick to cook. Paired with spinach, zucchini, and potatoes, it becomes the foundation for a dinner that feels nourishing without fuss. Whether you're looking to eat lighter or go hearty, this combination adapts to what you need.

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Mediterranean Ground Turkey and Vegetable Skillet

Total Time: 25 minutes • Serves: 4

A quick and healthy one-pan meal featuring seasoned ground turkey with sautéed spinach, zucchini, and potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
3 cups fresh spinach
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup water

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 8 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5 minutes until browned.
Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add zucchini, oregano, basil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 3 minutes.
Pour in water, add spinach, and stir until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Skip the potatoes or use cauliflower rice as your base. Let the turkey, spinach, and zucchini shine without extra starch, keeping the meal vegetable-forward.

Hearty Option

Double down on the potatoes and add cheese or cream to the mix. This version works beautifully as a one-pan skillet dinner or a baked casserole.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Swap the ground turkey for lentils, crumbled tofu, or chickpeas to keep the same structure and comfort while shifting the protein source.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Ground beef or lamb
Chicken breast (ground or diced)
Lentils or brown lentils
Crumbled tofu or tempeh
Italian sausage

Carb Substitutes

Cauliflower rice
Brown rice or farro
Sweet potatoes
Pasta or orzo
Polenta

Flavor Boosters

Fresh garlic and onion
Lemon zest or red wine vinegar
Cumin and smoked paprika
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or basil)
Red pepper flakes or hot sauce

Common Questions

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes. Cook the turkey and vegetables, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Should I cook the potatoes first?

It helps. Dice your potatoes small or use a quick-cooking cut (like thin rounds). You can also boil or steam them for a few minutes before adding them to the pan with the turkey and greens.

How do I keep the spinach from getting mushy?

Add it toward the end of cooking, just long enough for it to wilt. This keeps it tender but still with some structure and vibrant color.