This Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty, comforting dish that’s both nutritious and filling. I’ve often turned to this recipe when I need a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet butternut squash and savory ground turkey makes it a perfect candidate for any meal, and you’ll find it satisfies cravings while keeping things simple.
Why you’ll love this dish
You might be wondering why you should add this recipe to your weekly rotation. Well, here are a few compelling reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The dish is not only budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition—perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re watching your waistline or simply looking for a wholesome meal, this roasted butternut squash with ground turkey checks all the boxes.
“This dish was a hit! My kids devoured it in minutes and even asked for seconds. I love how simple it is to make.” — Lisa, satisfied home cook.
The cooking process explained
Creating this dish is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. You’ll start by preparing the butternut squash and seasoning it, then move on to the ground turkey. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—you only need a few key steps to bring it all together.
What you’ll need
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Feel free to switch things up a bit! You could use chicken or turkey sausage instead of ground turkey or add a splash of maple syrup to the squash for an extra sweet twist.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- While the squash is roasting, cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Season with additional salt and pepper.
- Once the squash is ready, mix it with the cooked turkey in a large bowl.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to plating this dish, simplicity wins! Serve the roasted butternut squash and ground turkey mix in a bowl, adding some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. You can pair it with a side salad, warm crusty bread, or even quinoa for some added texture and nutrition. Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for a gourmet touch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is a breeze! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label and date them!
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Choose butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a hard, unblemished skin.
- For quicker prep, buy pre-peeled and cubed butternut squash if you’re short on time.
- Don’t skip the stirring during roasting; it helps with even cooking and caramelization.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you could try:
- Add spice: Toss in some red pepper flakes or cayenne if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Add nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans right before serving adds a delightful crunch.
- Make it creamy: Stir in some Greek yogurt or cream cheese after combining the turkey and squash for a rich, creamy version.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I substitute the ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re completely cool before storing.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with cooked lentils or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat crumbles.
This Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey recipe is a delightful and simple dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Dive in and let yourself be amazed by the deliciousness you can create in no time!
Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb ground turkey Can be substituted with chicken or turkey sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Cooking
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- While the squash is roasting, cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, seasoning with additional salt and pepper.
- Once the squash is ready, mix it with the cooked turkey in a large bowl.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
