Recipes

$5 Family Challenge: Turkey Veggie Sloppy Joe Skillet

by StudioLink's Diet.
May 20, 2026
View the Studiolink

Ingredients:

0.5x
1x
2x
4x
Protein + Base
  •   1 lb lean ground turkey
  •   1.5 lb potatoes (medium, diced into small cubes)
 
Hidden Veggies
  •   1 medium onion (diced)
  •   1 cup shredded carrots
  •   1 bell pepper (diced)
  •   1 zucchini (shredded optional but great for extra nutrients)
 
Sauce
  •   8 oz tomato sauce
  •   2 tbsp ketchup
  •   1 tbsp yellow mustard
  •   1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
  •   1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  •   1 tsp garlic powder
  •   1 tsp onion powder
  •   1 tsp paprika
  •   1/2 tsp salt
  •   1/4 tsp black pepper
  •   2-4 tbsp water (as needed)
Optional toppings
  •   Plain Greek yogurt

  •   Green onions

  •   Shredded cheese

  •   Pickles
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Ingredients are subject to availability at local stores. Unavailable items will be automatically substituted at best-effort.

A healthier, nutrient-dense version of sloppy joes with hidden vegetables mixed into a hearty skillet. High protein, fiber-rich, and very beginner-friendly.

Estimated total cost: ~$5–7 depending on local pricing
Servings: 5

Approximate nutrition (per serving):

Calories: ~390–440

Protein: ~28–32g

Carbs: ~38–42g

Fat: ~10–13g

Fiber: ~6–8g

Directions

1. Cook the potatoes

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add potatoes with a small spray of oil or a little water.
  • Cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes.
  • Stir every few minutes until softened and lightly golden.

2. Add vegetables

  • Add onion, bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini.
  • Cook another 4–5 minutes until softened.

3. Cook turkey

  • Push vegetables to one side.
  • Add ground turkey.
  • Break apart with a spatula.
  • Cook until no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes).

4. Make the sloppy joe mixture
Add:

  • Tomato sauce
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Honey
  • Worcestershire
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Stir everything together.

5. Simmer

  • Add a few tablespoons of water if needed.
  • Simmer 3–5 minutes until thick and saucy.

6. Serve
Top with:

  • Greek yogurt
  • Green onions
  • Pickles
  • Cheese if desired

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