introduction
This Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet Recipe combines healthy ingredients into a delicious one-pan meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and delivers comfort without the guilt.
why make this recipe
Making this recipe is a great choice for many reasons. It’s nutritious, featuring lean turkey and heart-friendly butternut squash. The smoky flavor from smoked paprika adds depth, while melted gruyère cheese gives it a comforting touch. Plus, it’s a one-skillet dish, which means less clean-up for you!
how to make Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 butternut squash, about 3 cups (cubed)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 cup gruyère cheese
- Fresh cilantro and parsley

Directions:
- Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet.
- Add the ground turkey, onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the meat is no longer pink.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth. Mix well to ensure most of the squash is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the skillet and turn the heat down to medium-low. Cook for about 12 minutes or until the butternut squash is soft.
- Remove the skillet from the stovetop and top with gruyère cheese.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve.
how to serve Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.
how to store Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
tips to make Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
- For a little extra sweetness, try adding some dried cranberries or raisins.
- If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Always taste before serving, adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground turkey for chickpeas or a meat substitute. Also, feel free to use different cheeses if you prefer!
FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet.
Can I replace gruyère cheese?
Absolutely! You can use cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, simply leave out the gruyère cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet
A nutritious one-pan meal featuring ground turkey and butternut squash, topped with melted gruyère cheese and flavored with smoked paprika.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 butternut squash, about 3 cups (cubed)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 cup gruyère cheese
- Fresh cilantro and parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet.
- Add the ground turkey, onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the meat is no longer pink.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth. Mix well to ensure most of the squash is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the skillet and turn the heat down to medium-low. Cook for about 12 minutes or until the butternut squash is soft.
- Remove the skillet from the stovetop and top with gruyère cheese.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve.
Notes
For extra sweetness, try adding dried cranberries or raisins. For spice, add red pepper flakes while cooking. Always taste before serving to adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
