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Keto Ground Turkey - A Fast, Flavorful Low-Carb Skillet

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean works well)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (no sugar added)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional but recommended)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Cauliflower rice or large lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat the pan: Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the onion and a pinch of salt. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic and turkey: Stir in the garlic, then add the ground turkey. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Season generously: Sprinkle in smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the turkey evenly.
  4. Add veggies: Toss in zucchini and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  5. Tomato depth: Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute to caramelize slightly. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.
  6. Creamy finish: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and silky. Add the spinach and cook just until wilted, 1–2 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust: Add salt, pepper, or more paprika to taste. If using Parmesan, stir it in now for extra savory richness.
  8. Serve: Spoon over cauliflower rice, pile into lettuce cups, or enjoy as a bowl with avocado and fresh herbs on top.