Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Get ready for a dish that’ll bring a cozy hug to your dinner table: Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet! The tiny, tender Brussels sprouts give a delightful crunch, while savory ground turkey adds heartiness. This creamy, yet cream-free recipe is perfect for chilly nights, with warming spices and a splash of lemon that brightens everything up. If you’re looking for something quick, easy, and packed with flavor, you’re in for a treat! Not only does it taste fantastic, but it’s also handy for meal prep and uses pantry-friendly ingredients. Trust me, this dish will become a weeknight favorite!

Why You’ll Love Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)

This Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet is simply irresistible! The combination of flavors makes every bite a warm and inviting experience, and it comes together in just one pan. Imagine that first forkful—savory turkey with crisp Brussels sprouts, and a zing of lemon—yum! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

• Speed: Whip it up in under 30 minutes!
• Texture: Get the perfect crispy Brussels alongside tender turkey.
• Pantry-friendly: Uses ingredients you probably have on hand!
• Meal-prep friendly: Make it ahead of time for busy days.
• Dietary notes: Gluten-free and adaptable for various diets!

Ingredient Highlights for Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

• Brussels Sprouts: These mini cabbages add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor but can be swapped with green beans for variety.
• Ground Turkey: Provides lean protein and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Use ground chicken or beef if you prefer.
• Olive Oil: A must for sautéing, it adds a rich flavor. You can also use avocado oil if that’s on hand.
• Onion: For sweetness and depth. Yellow onion is classic, but you could use shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors—don’t skip these!
• Red Pepper Flakes: A hint of heat! Use paprika for milder flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish; feel free to add a bit more for extra zing!

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Phase 1 – Prep

1. Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, cutting larger ones in half.
2. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Season the ground turkey with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, cooking until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, then add the ground turkey. Cook until browned, around 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Brussels sprouts and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice just before serving.

Phase 3 – Serve

1. Plate your skillet dish, garnishing with extra lemon if desired.
2. Grab your fork, your cozy sweater, and dig in!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Swap the protein: Ground chicken works just as well!
• Make it crispy: Sauté the Brussels sprouts first before adding other ingredients for extra crunch.
• Storage tip: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the Brussels sprouts, which can make them mushy. To avoid this, keep an eye on them and only cook until they’re just tender yet still vibrant green.

Another pitfall is not seasoning enough. Under-seasoned food can be bland; make sure you taste as you go! Add a pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.

Lastly, if your ground turkey is too dry, it may need a little more oil or liquid to keep it juicy. A splash of chicken broth can work wonders here!

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.
• Dairy-free: Easily made dairy-free by skipping any cheese topping.
• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat!
• Herbal: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor.
• Cooking methods: This can be made in a stovetop, Instant Pot, or air fryer with adjustments!

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Best Pairings

• Serve it with warm brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Top with a sprinkle of parmesan or feta for added creaminess.
• Pair with a side salad for a fresh crunch.

Drink Pairing

• A chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon nicely.
• For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing sparkling water with lemon can be delightful!

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. Just store it in portions in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind the Brussels sprouts may lose some texture when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Yes, but they may turn out softer. It’s best to sauté them until heated through.

How to make it extra creamy without cream? Stir in a bit of Greek yogurt or silken tofu at the end for creaminess.

Can I double it? Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet or make it in batches.

How to fix a too-thick skillet? Add a bit of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while reheating.

This Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet is not only creamy without any cream but also a deliciously wholesome dish to whip up any day of the week. If you try it, I’d love to hear what you think! Please rate and comment, and don’t forget to check out our comfort food recipes for more delightful meals!