This Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet is a cozy and healthy dish! It’s packed with lean turkey, sweet butternut squash, and colorful veggies for a tasty meal.
You’ll love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in one pan and let the flavors dance together. Perfect for busy nights when you want comfort without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and healthy, ground turkey is the star here. If you prefer, you can use ground chicken or even plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
Butternut Squash: This ingredient adds sweetness and texture. If you can’t find it, sweet potatoes or pumpkin puree can work too, but adjust cooking time accordingly because they cook differently.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper brings color and flavor. You can swap it with yellow or orange bell pepper for similar sweetness or use zucchini for a different veggie option.
Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder give this dish a warm kick. If you want milder flavors, you can replace the chili powder with a pinch of sugar and reduce the amount of cumin.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend provides creaminess. For a lighter option, consider low-fat cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free dish.
How Do I Cook the Butternut Squash Perfectly?
Getting the butternut squash tender without losing its texture is essential! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Make sure to peel and dice the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Cover the skillet after adding the squash to trap heat. This helps it cook through while mixing flavors.
- Check for tenderness with a fork around the 10-minute mark. If it’s not soft yet, give it a few more minutes!
Taking the time to prepare the squash properly will result in a better texture and taste in the final dish. Enjoy this simple method for a delicious outcome!
Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You will spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and then another 20 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s a quick and satisfying recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for a minute, so it’s ready to sauté the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet, stirring gently. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and the onion turns translucent.
3. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for another 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning. You should smell the wonderful aroma!
4. Cook the Turkey:
Now it’s time to add the ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Squash and Spices:
Add the diced butternut squash along with the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to blend the flavors and coat the squash.
6. Cover and Cook:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. You want the squash to become tender.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Once the squash is tender, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts beautifully.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve it warm and enjoy your delicious Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet!
This dish is hearty, healthy, and full of flavor—a perfect option for a wholesome weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash Instead?
Absolutely! If you have frozen butternut squash, you can use it directly without thawing. Just add it to the skillet and give it a few extra minutes to cook until heated through and tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want to add some heat, consider doubling the chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also toss in some chopped jalapeños with the bell pepper for extra spice!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with This Skillet Dish?
This skillet dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with brown rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
