This Creamy Ground Turkey Zoodle Skillet is a perfect low-carb, high-protein dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Juicy ground turkey simmers with garlic and zucchini ribbons in a dairy-free coconut cream sauce—comfort food without the carb overload.
Table of Contents
Why This Skillet Meal Works So Well
This recipe hits all the right notes: protein from ground turkey, veggie goodness from zucchini noodles, and richness from coconut milk without cream or refined carbs. All made in one pan, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep. If you enjoy light, dairy-free meals, you’ll love our Light Detox Soup for When You’re Sick, another one-pan wonder that soothes and nourishes.
Ingredients & Prep Tips
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lean ground turkey | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves |
| Spiralized zucchini (zoodles) | 4 cups |
| Full-fat coconut milk (unsweetened) | ½ cup |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | ¼ cup |
| Lemon or lime juice | 1 tsp |
| Fresh herbs (basil, parsley) | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Olive oil or avocado oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt & black pepper | to taste |
Prep Pointers
Use firm zucchinis and spiralize just before cooking to avoid soggy noodles. Drain excess liquid from turkey after browning if needed. Choose full-fat coconut milk for better texture. Season as you cook, tasting frequently. Add herbs at the end for freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Turkey & Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it up, then drain any excess liquid. Stir in garlic and cook for one minute more until fragrant.
2. Build the Creamy Sauce
Add coconut milk, broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavor. Stir in lemon or lime juice to brighten the sauce.
3. Add Zoodles & Finish Cooking
Toss zucchini noodles into the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Avoid overcooking to keep noodles intact. Stir gently to coat everything in sauce.
4. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top and gently stir before serving. Serve immediately—this dish is best hot with zoodles still crisp-tender.
Creamy Ground Turkey Zoodle Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Creamy Ground Turkey Zoodle Skillet is a quick, low-carb dinner made with spiralized zucchini, lean turkey, and a dairy-free coconut cream sauce. It’s healthy, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups spiralized zucchini (zoodles)
1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp lemon or lime juice
2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (basil, parsley)
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and add ground turkey. Cook until browned.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in coconut milk, broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add lemon or lime juice and stir.
5. Toss in zucchini noodles and cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
6. Top with chopped fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
Do not overcook the zucchini to avoid sogginess.
You can swap turkey for ground chicken or beef.
Add chili flakes for a bit of spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Ground Turkey Zoodles, Low Carb Skillet Dinner, Dairy Free Zoodle Recipe, Healthy Turkey Skillet
Why Coconut Milk Works Here
Coconut milk gives rich creaminess without dairy or heavy cream. Its slight sweetness pairs beautifully with zoodles and turkey. The lemon juice cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors. Together, they create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles and meat.
Healthy Swaps & Variations
For Whole30 or paleo versions, use compliant coconut milk and no added sweeteners. To add vegetables, stir in chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach during the sauce stage. If you want more protein, top with a fried egg or grilled chicken. If you love quick, healthy meals, try the Rotisserie Chicken Salad in 10 Minutes too.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or beef?
Yes—switching the protein works fine. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on fat content.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Coconut milk keeps this recipe naturally dairy-free and keto/Whole30 friendly.
Can I meal-prep it?
You can prep turkey and sauce in advance, then add zoodles just before reheating to avoid sogginess. Store zucchini separately and stir in fresh.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this skillet as is—or add zucchini noodles over a bed of leafy greens for extra volume. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal. I often combine this with my Cold Day Roasted Garlic Potato Soup for a cozy combo.
Conclusion
This Creamy Ground Turkey Zoodle Skillet proves healthy cooking can also feel indulgent. It’s low carb, full of flavor, easy to make, and keeps cleanup minimal. With tender turkey, creamy coconut sauce, and bright zucchini ribbons, it’s a satisfying skillet dinner you’ll want on repeat.