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Ground Turkey and Butternut Squash Skillet Recipe

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4 from 28 reviews

This Ground Turkey and Butternut Squash recipe is a healthy, flavorful American main course, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. It combines lean ground turkey with tender butternut squash simmered in a savory mixture of low sodium chicken broth, fresh vegetables, and herbs, resulting in a warm, hearty dish that’s also diabetic and gluten free friendly.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ground turkey
  • 1 cup butternut squash (about 5 ounces)
  • 8 fluid ounces low sodium organic chicken broth (240 ml)
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ¼ cup)
  • 1 tablespoon gluten-free soy sauce (Tamari recommended)
  • ½ tablespoon minced garlic
  • ½ tablespoon fresh thyme
  • Himalayan salt to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

Optional Garnish

  • ¼ cup freshly grated Swiss cheese
  • Generous pinch of fresh thyme

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Thoroughly wash the butternut squash and pat it dry using a paper towel. Carefully cut it in half width-wise and peel and dice the top portion into 1-inch cubes, setting aside the seed section.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over low heat (around 140°F / 60°C). Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
  3. Cook Ground Turkey: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high. Add the ground turkey, seasoning it with a pinch of Himalayan salt and a generous pinch of ground black pepper. Break the meat apart and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Pour in half the soy sauce and stir occasionally to combine flavors.
  4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, butternut squash cubes, half of the fresh thyme, and the remaining soy sauce. Mix everything well.
  5. Simmer: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, add more black pepper to taste, and stir to combine. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butternut squash is tender.
  6. Finish and Season: Check the doneness of the squash with a fork. Add the remaining thyme during the last few minutes. Adjust seasoning with additional Himalayan salt and black pepper as needed. Ensure the ground turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Turn off the heat and transfer the dish to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly grated Swiss cheese and a pinch of fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Ensure ground turkey is fully cooked to 165°F for safety.
  • Use gluten-free soy sauce such as Tamari to keep this recipe gluten free.
  • The butternut squash can be peeled using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife carefully.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to dietary needs and taste preferences.
  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a pescatarian variation.
  • This dish is ideal for meal prep and reheats well in the microwave or stovetop.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/ground-turkey-and-butternut-squash-skillet-recipe/