Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe

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When you’re craving a dish that feels both cozy and fresh, the Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet hits the mark perfectly. This vibrant skillet combines tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts with lean, flavorful ground turkey, all brought together by a balanced blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and tangy balsamic vinegar. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s packed with texture, color, and a satisfying depth of flavor – a recipe that will quickly earn a favorite spot in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an essential role in building the dish’s rich flavor and delightful textures. Every element is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious balance that delights the palate and nourishes the body.

• Ground turkey (1 pound): A lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the spices beautifully.
• Brussels sprouts (1 pound, trimmed and halved): Add crunch and a subtle sweetness when caramelized.
• Medium onion (1, chopped): Provides a savory base and depth to the dish.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances aroma and adds a bright, pungent flavor.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For a perfect sear and to keep everything luscious.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings out natural flavors.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a light heat and pungency.
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Introduces a gentle kick if you’re up for it.
• Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, smoky depth that makes the skillet uniquely savory.
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami and a subtle saltiness.
• Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings tanginess and balances the richness.
• Chicken or vegetable broth (1/2 cup): Keeps everything moist and tender during simmering.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it is nicely browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes. This step ensures your turkey has great texture and a robust flavor base.

Step 2: Season and Set Aside the Turkey

Once browned, season the turkey with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything thoroughly so the spices coat the meat evenly. Then transfer the seasoned turkey to a plate and set it aside for the moment—this layering of flavors is crucial for the skillet’s depth.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil before tossing in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft, creating a fragrant and flavorful foundation for the Brussels sprouts to join.

Step 4: Caramelize the Brussels Sprouts

Next, stir in the halved Brussels sprouts. Cook them uncovered for around 5 minutes, letting their edges caramelize to develop a sweet, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the savory turkey. This step adds delightful texture and an irresistible aroma.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Simmer

Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet, then pour in the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious juices and flavors. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This slow melding of ingredients softens the Brussels sprouts and infuses the whole skillet with rich, layered taste.

Step 6: Final Touches

After simmering, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the skillet—it adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that elevates the dish beautifully.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a little grated Parmesan cheese to give each serving a fresh, zesty final note that complements the smoky and savory flavors.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a warm crusty bread to soak up the luscious skillet juices. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp green salad for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon the Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet into roasted bell peppers or stuff it into whole-wheat pita pockets. You can also use it as a hearty filling for crunchy lettuce wraps—delicious for lunch or a light dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the skillet cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making this dish a perfect candidate for meal prepping or a quick next-day dinner.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, this Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep it moist. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will yield a similarly lean, tasty result. Just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

If balsamic vinegar isn’t on hand, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice to maintain the tangy balance of the dish.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to toss in sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even diced carrots to bulk up the veggie content and add new flavors and textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

How spicy is the Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet?

The heat level is mild by default, thanks to just a touch of red pepper flakes, which are optional. You can easily adjust the spice up or down depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

You’re going to love how effortlessly the Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet comes together and how satisfying it tastes. It’s a dish that brings comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor all in one pan, making mealtime something to look forward to. Give it a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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