This Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet is a nutritious, low-carb meal that comes together in just one pan. Packed with lean protein and hearty vegetables, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you need something fast, filling, and flavorful. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and health.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground turkeygreen cabbagecarrotsbell pepperoniongarlicolive oilsoy sauce or coconut aminessediment vinegar (optional)crushed red pepper flakes (optional)salt and pepper
directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Mix in sliced carrots and bell pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
Add shredded cabbage and stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
Pour in soy sauce or coconut aminos and a splash of vinegar if using.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Cover and let cook for another 5-7 minutes until cabbage is tender and flavors are well combined.
Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Add a spoonful of hoisin sauce for a slightly sweet twist.
Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier dish.
Use ground chicken or beef if preferred.
Top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish.
Mix in mushrooms or zucchini for more veggie variety.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.You can freeze it for up to 2 months, though cabbage may soften slightly upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and suitable for a keto diet.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap turkey for plant-based ground meat or tofu.
What if I don’t have soy sauce?
Use coconut aminos or tamari as a substitute.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely, it reheats well and makes a great make-ahead meal.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild, but you can add more red pepper flakes for heat.
Do I need to drain the turkey?
If there’s excess liquid, drain it to avoid a soggy skillet.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a large enough skillet to hold everything.
Is this good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and very satisfying.
Can I add cheese?
Sure! A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can be a tasty addition.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful one-pan meal that suits a variety of diets and preferences. Whether you’re eating healthy, looking for a low-carb dinner, or simply want a comforting, veggie-packed dish, this skillet has you covered. Try it once, and it may just become a weeknight staple.
Print
Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet: A Healthy One-Pan Meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté/Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and nutritious one-pan meal featuring ground turkey and cabbage, seasoned with aromatic spices and simmered to perfection—ideal for a healthy, low-carb weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth (low-sodium)
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it apart; cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes.
- Season with smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
- Add sliced cabbage and broth; toss to coat evenly.
- Cover skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.
- Remove lid, adjust seasoning as needed, and cook another 2 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- You can swap green cabbage for Napa or savoy cabbage if preferred.
- Make it a freezer-friendly meal by portioning leftovers into airtight containers.
- To boost protein, stir in a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1¼ cups)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
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