Indulge in the savory, aromatic, tender, flavorful, and delicious taste of Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe, perfect for the fall season.
This recipe is a game-changer for a healthy and satisfying dinner. As we explore the Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe, you’ll discover the magic that happens when you combine the sweetness of butternut squash with the richness of ground turkey.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures. By using a combination of aromatics, spices, and herbs, we create a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. The butternut squash is roasted to perfection, bringing out its natural sweetness and tenderizing it to a velvety texture. Meanwhile, the ground turkey is cooked with onions, garlic, and a hint of cumin, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
Key Ingredient Highlights
The star of the show is, of course, the butternut squash. This versatile vegetable is a staple of fall recipes, and for good reason. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also incredibly easy to work with. When roasted, it develops a caramelized exterior and a tender interior that’s simply irresistible.
The ground turkey is another key ingredient in this recipe. It’s an excellent source of protein and can be seasoned in countless ways. In this recipe, we opt for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile, with a hint of cumin, coriander, and paprika.
THE RECIPE CARD
Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe
This recipe is a staple of fall, featuring tender butternut squash and flavorful ground turkey. Perfect for a healthy dinner that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients
- â–¢ 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
- â–¢ 1 lb ground turkey
- â–¢ 1 onion, diced
- â–¢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
- â–¢ 1 tsp ground cumin
- â–¢ 1 tsp smoked paprika
- â–¢ 1/2 tsp salt
- â–¢ 1/4 tsp black pepper
- â–¢ 2 tbsp olive oil
- â–¢ 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, seed, and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss the squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the turkey is cooked through.
- To serve, divide the roasted butternut squash among plates, then top with the ground turkey mixture.
Pro Tips
Here are a few pro tips to help you perfect this recipe:
1. Don’t overcook the squash. Roasting the butternut squash is a delicate process, and it’s easy to overcook it. Keep an eye on it after 25 minutes, and remove it from the oven when it’s tender and caramelized.
2. Don’t dry out the ground turkey. Ground turkey can be prone to drying out, especially when cooked with aromatics. To prevent this, make sure to stir in the chicken broth and cook until the liquid has reduced, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
3. Balance the flavors. This recipe is all about balance. With the sweetness of the butternut squash, the richness of the ground turkey, and the tanginess of the cumin, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Taste the dish as you go, adjusting the seasoning to create a harmonious balance of flavors.
FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions about this recipe:
Q: What’s the best way to peel a butternut squash?
A: To peel a butternut squash, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then chop it into 1-inch cubes.
Q: How do I avoid overcooking the ground turkey?
A: To prevent overcooking the ground turkey, stir in the chicken broth and cook until the liquid has reduced, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
Q: Can I use other types of squash?
A: Yes, you can use other types of squash, such as acorn or kabocha, but the cooking time may vary. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of squash.
Conclusion
This Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe is a true winner for a healthy and satisfying dinner. With its tender, caramelized squash and flavorful ground turkey, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Looking for more Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe inspiration? Check out this article for more tips and tricks.
