This Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet is a colorful and healthy dish! It’s made with lean turkey, sweet butternut squash, and fun spices that bring it all together.
It’s so easy to make, you’ll want to whip it up every week! I love how the sweet squash pairs perfectly with the turkey. It makes me feel like a kitchen superstar! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat is great for a low-fat dish. You could substitute it with ground chicken or even ground beef if you prefer. Both bring their own flavors, but turkey keeps it light!
Butternut Squash: Fresh is best, but frozen cubes work too if you’re short on time. If squash isn’t available, sweet potatoes are a great alternative for a similar sweetness and texture.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build the base flavor for the skillet. Yellow or red onions can be used interchangeably. If you’re looking for a milder taste, try shallots instead!
Cheese: Goat cheese adds a tangy kick; you could swap it for feta or even shredded mozzarella for a creamier texture. If you want it dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Properly Cook Butternut Squash in a Skillet?
Cooking butternut squash takes a little finesse to get that perfect texture. Start by peeling and dicing into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. Here’s the trick to getting that nice caramelization:
- Heat olive oil on medium heat before adding the squash. It should sizzle a bit when it hits the skillet.
- Give it enough space in the pan; avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the squash is tender and golden. Then, set aside to avoid overcooking.
Taking these steps will help you achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor in your skillet! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes (about 3 cups)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional, for moisture)
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Butternut Squash:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced butternut squash and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it starts to soften and is lightly browned. Once done, transfer the squash to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant.
3. Add the Ground Turkey:
Now it’s time to add the ground turkey! Break it apart with a spatula and cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season it with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you like a kick!), salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked butternut squash to the skillet with the turkey mixture. If it looks dry, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth to keep it moist and help bring the flavors together. Stir in the fresh or dried thyme and let it all cook together for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve this hearty dish warm, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Squash?
Absolutely! If butternut squash is unavailable, you can use acorn squash or even sweet potatoes as a tasty alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different squashes may vary in tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Turkey?
If you’re looking for a different protein, ground chicken or lean beef works well in this skillet. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or lentils, seasoned similarly to achieve a flavorful dish.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add a chopped jalapeño while cooking. For a smoky flavor, consider using chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika!
