Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This butternut squash and ground turkey recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and nutritious meal. This recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your collection of healthy meal ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 1.5 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
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Prep the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness. This is a key step for achieving the best flavor in this dish.
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Brown the Turkey: While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This simple step ensures your dish isn't overly greasy.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, sage, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Building layers of flavor is crucial for a truly delicious meal.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the roasted butternut squash, diced tomatoes (undrained), and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded beautifully. Low and slow cooking helps the flavors deepen and the squash become even more tender.
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Finishing Touches: Stir in the fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Fresh herbs add a bright, vibrant flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use ground chicken or beef instead of ground turkey.
- Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Serve this delicious dish over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a more complete meal. It’s also great on its own!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A rough estimate per serving would be approximately 350-400 calories, 25-30g protein, and 20-25g carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of your ingredients.
This butternut squash and ground turkey recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. It’s a simple recipe, ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy!