Brussels Sprouts Turkey Skillet: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Brussels sprouts turkey skillet: Prepare to transform your weeknight dinners with this incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple one-pan wonder! Are you tired of the same old boring meals? Do you crave something healthy, satisfying, and quick to prepare? Then look no further! This recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite.

While Brussels sprouts might have a reputation for being… well, not everyone’s favorite vegetable, trust me on this one. When paired with savory ground turkey and cooked in a skillet to achieve that perfect caramelized crispness, they become utterly irresistible. Think of it as a modern twist on classic comfort food, blending the heartiness of a traditional skillet dinner with a focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Skillet dinners, in general, have a long and storied history, representing a practical and efficient way to feed families for generations. This brussels sprouts turkey skillet recipe builds upon that tradition, offering a complete and balanced meal in a single pan, minimizing both cooking time and cleanup. People adore this dish because it’s not only incredibly delicious – the slightly bitter Brussels sprouts perfectly complement the savory turkey and any added seasonings – but also because it’s incredibly convenient. It’s a fantastic way to get a healthy dose of vegetables and protein without spending hours in the kitchen. The textures are also a winner: the tender turkey, the slightly crunchy Brussels sprouts, and the optional crispy bacon bits create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite!

Ingredients:

• For the Brussels Sprouts:
• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• For the Turkey and Skillet:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or leaner recommended)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, fresh parsley

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:

Okay, let’s start with the Brussels sprouts. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and gets rid of any bitterness some people associate with them. Trust me, even Brussels sprouts skeptics will love them this way!

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key for getting those nice, crispy edges.
2. Prep the Brussels sprouts: Make sure your Brussels sprouts are trimmed and halved. If they’re particularly large, quarter them so they cook evenly. I usually cut off the very bottom of the stem and remove any loose or yellowing outer leaves.
3. Season the Brussels sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder. Make sure they’re evenly coated. I like to use my hands to really get the seasoning in there.
4. Roast the Brussels sprouts: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through. You want them to have some nice char on the edges.

Preparing the Turkey Skillet:

Now, while the Brussels sprouts are roasting, let’s get started on the turkey skillet. This part is super easy and comes together quickly. The balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard add a delicious tang that complements the roasted Brussels sprouts perfectly.

1. Brown the ground turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy skillet!
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until it’s slightly tender. The aroma at this point is just amazing!
3. Add the flavor boosters: Pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine. Then, add the 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always start with a little salt and pepper and then adjust as needed.
4. Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Combining and Serving:

Almost there! This is the easiest part. We’re just bringing everything together and adding any final touches.

1. Combine the Brussels sprouts and turkey mixture: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the turkey skillet is ready, add the roasted Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the turkey mixture. Stir gently to combine, making sure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated in the sauce.
2. Heat through: Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through. This allows the flavors to really come together.
3. Serve and enjoy: Serve the Brussels sprouts turkey skillet immediately. If desired, top with crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley. These toppings add a nice textural contrast and extra flavor. I personally love the tang of the goat cheese with the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts.

Tips and Variations:

This recipe is really versatile, so feel free to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few ideas:

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Use different protein: If you’re not a fan of ground turkey, you can use ground chicken, ground beef, or even Italian sausage.
• Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans.
• Spice it up: If you like things spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Add a touch of sweetness: For a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the skillet.
• Make it ahead: You can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the turkey skillet ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and then combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

This Brussels sprouts turkey skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of quinoa, rice, or mashed sweet potatoes. It’s also great served over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Brussels sprouts turkey skillet! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Brussels sprouts turkey skillet is truly a game-changer, transforming weeknight dinners from a chore into a culinary adventure. I know, I know, Brussels sprouts might not be everyone’s favorite, but trust me on this one. The combination of savory ground turkey, slightly caramelized Brussels sprouts, and the perfectly balanced seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that will have even the most ardent sprout-haters coming back for seconds. It’s quick, it’s easy, it’s healthy, and most importantly, it’s absolutely delicious. What more could you ask for?

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a solution to the age-old question of “what’s for dinner?” It’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor. The Brussels sprouts get beautifully tender and slightly crispy around the edges, while the ground turkey provides a hearty and satisfying protein boost. The seasonings, carefully chosen to complement both the turkey and the sprouts, tie everything together in perfect harmony.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own tastes and preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
* Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese over the skillet before serving for a creamy and salty finish.
* Add some crunch: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and nutty flavor.
* Make it a complete meal: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or mashed sweet potatoes for a more substantial and satisfying meal.
* Breakfast for dinner: Add a fried egg on top for a protein-packed and delicious breakfast-inspired dinner.
* Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground turkey with crumbled tempeh or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.
* Different vegetables: While the Brussels sprouts are the star of the show, you can also add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.

I truly believe that this Brussels sprouts turkey skillet will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. It’s the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition, making it a winner in my book.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And don’t forget to share your creations with me! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences. Tag me on social media and let me know what variations you tried and how they turned out. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy Brussels sprouts turkey skillet! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Let me know in the comments below!

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