When the crispness of fall settles in and your kitchen fills with cozy vibes, this Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet becomes your best friend. This one-pan wonder brings together lean ground turkey and sweet, tender butternut squash, creating a harmony of textures that’s as comforting as your favorite sweater. You’ll love how the warm spices—cumin, smoked paprika, and a whisper of cinnamon—give each bite a gentle hug, while fresh kale adds a vibrant pop of green. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy, filling, and downright delicious without complicated steps or endless dishes to wash.
As you stir everything together, you’ll notice how the ingredients transform from simple pantry staples into a colorful tableau of fall flavors. The gentle sizzle of onions and garlic in olive oil kicks off this culinary adventure, and before you know it, your kitchen is alive with savory-sweet scents (yes, you can practically taste the cinnamon and paprika mingling!). Best of all, this skillet is beginner-friendly—no fancy techniques required—yet it delivers a restaurant-worthy meal that warms both body and soul. Grab your wooden spoon, embrace the season’s bounty, and get ready for a dish that will quickly become a weeknight staple.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND TURKEY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SKILLET
Every great dish starts with star players that shine on their own and sing in harmony together. This skillet is no exception! Below, you’ll find each ingredient highlighted for its role in making this recipe a fall favorite.
- Ground turkey
A lean protein base that cooks quickly, absorbing spices beautifully while keeping the dish light and heart-healthy.
- Butternut squash
Sweet, creamy, and tender when diced. It adds a splash of autumnal color and a natural hint of sweetness to balance the spices.
- Onion
Provides depth and a mild, savory foundation as it softens and sweetens in the skillet.
- Garlic
Infuses aromatic warmth and a gentle kick, elevating the overall flavor profile.
- Olive oil
A healthy cooking fat that prevents sticking and helps evenly distribute heat for perfectly sautéed aromatics.
- Ground cumin
Delivers an earthy, slightly nutty note that complements both the turkey and squash.
- Smoked paprika
Imparts a subtle smokiness and rich red hue, giving the skillet a rustic, cozy feel.
- Ground cinnamon
A pinch adds unexpected warmth and depth, tying together sweet and savory elements.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Chicken broth
Adds moisture, helps cook the squash to tender perfection, and carries the spices throughout the dish.
- Kale
A nutrient-rich green that wilts into the skillet, adding texture, color, and a boost of vitamins.
- Lemon juice
A bright finishing touch that cuts through richness and adds a refreshing zing.
- Fresh parsley (optional)
A lively garnish that adds a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness just before serving.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND TURKEY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SKILLET
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step magic of this one-pan meal. With a few simple techniques, you’ll transform humble components into a comforting dinner that’s both tasty and nutritious.
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 7–8 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink remaining and the turkey is nicely caramelized around the edges.
3. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the turkey and onion mixture. Allow the spices to bloom for a minute, intensifying their flavors.
4. Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender. Check halfway through and give it a gentle toss if needed.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped kale. Cover the skillet again and cook until the kale has wilted, about 3–4 minutes. This step ensures the greens stay bright and tender.
6. Stir in the lemon juice, adjust seasoning if necessary, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This brightens the entire dish and ties all the flavors together.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every colorful, flavorful spoonful!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND TURKEY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SKILLET
When your skillet comes off the stove, it’s time to think about presentation and pairings to elevate your meal. Whether you’re dishing it up for a cozy family dinner or a casual lunch, these serving ideas will make each bite even more memorable. Embrace contrasts of texture, layers of flavor, and vibrant accents that complement the hearty base of turkey, squash, and kale.
- Hearty Grain Bowls
Spoon the skillet over a bed of fluffy quinoa or steamed brown rice to soak up all the savory broth. The grains add extra bulk and wholesome fiber, making the dish even more satisfying.
- Creamy Dollops
Top each serving with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream. The tangy creaminess balances the warm spices and adds richness without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- Crunchy Toppings
Sprinkle on toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch. This extra texture contrasts beautifully with the soft squash and wilted kale.
- Fresh Herb Garnish
Finish with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro) and an additional squeeze of lemon juice. These bright accents highlight the dish’s colorful ingredients and add a burst of freshness.
HOW TO STORE GROUND TURKEY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SKILLET
Making a big batch of this skillet means you’ll have delicious leftovers to enjoy—if you store them properly. With the right methods, you can maintain that fresh, just-made taste and texture so that reheated portions feel almost as good as the first serving. Whether you’re planning meals for the week or saving a few bowls for a rainy day, follow these tips.
- Refrigerate Quickly
Let the skillet cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chilling promptly helps lock in flavor and prevents excess moisture from making the squash mushy.
- Freeze in Portions
Divide the cooled skillet into single-serving freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat Gently
Warm individual portions in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to revive moisture. Cover briefly to steam and maintain tenderness.
- Revive Freshness
After reheating, stir in a small extra drizzle of lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley to brighten flavors and restore that just-cooked vibrancy.
CONCLUSION
What a journey! You’ve taken lean ground turkey, sweet butternut squash, vibrant kale, and a blend of warm spices, and turned them into a comforting one-pan masterpiece. This Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet is perfect for both lunch and dinner, beginner-friendly, and packed with nutrients. With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a colorful, flavor-packed meal on the table in under an hour. Each bite offers a cozy balance of savory, sweet, and fresh, clocking in at around 400 calories—ideal for those watching portions without sacrificing taste. Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder or digital folder for quick reference on busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Don’t forget you can scroll down to find a handy FAQ section that answers common questions about ingredient swaps, storage tips, and more.
I hope this guide inspires you to add this skillet to your regular meal rotation. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear about your experience—whether you customized it with extra veggies, swapped in ground chicken, or served it over your favorite grain. Your comments, questions, and feedback are always welcome. Did you discover a new favorite garnish or perfect side dish? Drop a note below so we can all share in the deliciousness. Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy nights filled with hearty, healthy, and downright delicious meals!
Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
Description
This skillet dish combines lean ground turkey, sweet butternut squash, and nutrient-rich kale, creating a colorful and delicious meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.
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Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the turkey and onion mixture.
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Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together, cover, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
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Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped kale. Cover the skillet again and cook until the kale has wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in the lemon juice, adjust seasoning if necessary, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Note
- For added flavor, try roasting the butternut squash beforehand.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for variation.
- Consider adding a can of diced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
- Serve the skillet over cooked quinoa or rice for a hearty meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
