Discover the comforting blend of lean ground turkey and tender cabbage in this wholesome one-pan skillet. This quick-to-make dish delivers a savory flavor profile enhanced by smoked paprika, garlic, and soy sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or efficient meal prep.
Rich in protein and fiber, this balanced meal not only satisfies your hunger but also supports your health goals with minimal fuss. Whether served on its own or accompanied by your favorite grain, it’s a versatile staple that quickly becomes a family favorite.
- Quick and easy one-pan meal ideal for busy evenings and meal prep.
- Lean protein and nutrient-rich cabbage offer a healthy, balanced option.
- Flavorful smoked paprika and soy sauce create a savory, satisfying taste.
- Customizable with optional veggies and adjustments for dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- Lean ground turkey (450 g / ≈ 1 lb): Provides a lean, high-protein base that cooks quickly and absorbs seasonings well.
- Shredded cabbage (4 cups, about ½ medium head): Adds fiber and a mild sweetness, softening to a tender texture in the skillet.
- Medium onion, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed, enhancing overall flavor.
- Garlic cloves (2–3, minced): Imparts aromatic freshness and a savory kick that complements the turkey.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing, contributing healthy fats and preventing sticking.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds umami and saltiness, balancing the mild turkey and cabbage flavors.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a smoky depth to the dish without overpowering.
- Salt (½ teaspoon, or to taste): Enhances all flavors in the recipe.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat and complexity.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Provides a subtle spicy warmth for those who enjoy heat.
- Optional veggies (shredded carrots, diced bell pepper): Introduce color, texture, and additional nutrients.
- Splash of vinegar or lemon juice: Brightens and balances flavor at the end of cooking for freshness.
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients
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Shred the cabbage finely, dice the onion, and mince the garlic so all components are ready before heating the pan. Proper prep ensures smooth cooking flow and even flavor development.
- Cook the Ground Turkey
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey, then season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking the meat into smaller pieces, until thoroughly browned and no longer pink. Removing the turkey at this stage helps maintain texture and prevents overcooking later.
- Sauté the Aromatics
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In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This step releases the onions’ sweetness and garlic’s aroma, creating a flavorful base.
- Cook the Cabbage
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Add shredded cabbage to the skillet and toss it with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in soy sauce and stir to combine. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but retains a slight crunch. This technique allows the cabbage to absorb savory flavors while preserving texture.
- Combine & Finish
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Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine with the cabbage mixture. Adjust seasoning as needed and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired for heat. Cook everything together for 1 to 2 more minutes so the flavors meld seamlessly.
- Serve
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Serve this hearty skillet meal hot, either on its own or over your choice of rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The balanced flavors make it perfect for a family dinner or make-ahead lunches.
- This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats evenly, making it ideal for meal prepping.
- Ground chicken, beef, or pork يمكن أن تستخدم كبدائل جيدة إذا كنت تفضل ذلك.
- For added texture and nutrition, incorporate shredded carrots or diced bell peppers along with the cabbage.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through to maintain texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this skillet as a standalone low-carb meal or serve over cooked grains such as brown rice or quinoa. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added balance.
- Use fresh, finely shredded cabbage for the best texture; avoid pre-shredded cabbage as it can be soggy.
- Adjust soy sauce or coconut aminos quantity gradually to control salt levels according to dietary preference.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end brightens the entire dish, balancing savory notes perfectly.
FAQs
- Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
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Yes, ground chicken works equally well and offers a similar lean protein base with mild flavors.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
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To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of traditional soy sauce, which usually contains gluten.
- Can I add other vegetables?
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Absolutely! Shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms add color, flavor, and nutrition.
- How long does it keep in the fridge?
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Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best freshness and safety.
- Can I freeze this dish?
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Yes, freezing is possible. Portion into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight before reheating gently.
- What can I serve with this skillet?
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Serve alongside cooked grains like quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice, or pair with a salad to complete the meal.
- How to make it spicier?
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Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when combining the ingredients at the end.
Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet
Equipment
- 1 large skillet for cooking turkey and vegetables
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 4 cups finely shredded cabbage about half a medium head
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Optional: shredded carrots diced bell pepper, splash of vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by shredding cabbage, dicing onion, and mincing garlic.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Remove cooked turkey from skillet and set aside.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Sauté diced onion for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shredded cabbage to the skillet, toss with onions and garlic, then pour in soy sauce and stir well.
- Cook cabbage mixture for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy.
- Return turkey to skillet and combine with cabbage mixture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, add red pepper flakes if desired, and cook 1–2 more minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve hot on its own or over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
Notes
- Use ground chicken, beef, or pork as protein alternatives.
- Add extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more nutrition.
- A splash of vinegar or lemon juice brightens the flavors.
- Stores well in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
