Save to Pinterest The smell of Brussels sprouts hitting a hot skillet still takes me back to my first apartment kitchen, where I discovered that these little cabbages could actually be incredible when treated right. I used to boil them into sad mush until a friend showed me the magic of high heat and a good sear. This turkey skillet became my weeknight saving grace during busy seasons when I needed something nourishing but fast.
Last winter my sister dropped by unexpectedly while I was making this, and she ended up licking her plate clean despite claiming she hated Brussels sprouts her whole life. Now she texts me whenever she makes it, usually with some variation about how she cant believe something so healthy tastes this good.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey: Lean turkey keeps things lighter but still delivers plenty of protein and savory flavor
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts with tight leaves will give you the best crispy edges and tender centers
- 1 small yellow onion: Diced small so it melts into the dish and adds subtle sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic: Freshly minced garlic blooms beautifully in the hot oil and infuses the whole skillet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: divided so you can properly sear both the turkey and the sprouts
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water: This creates steam to help the sprouts cook through without drying out
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh squeezed brightens everything and cuts through the richness
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Use this as a baseline and adjust to your taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground makes all the difference here
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm, smoky undertone to the turkey
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional but gives a lovely background warmth
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: The salty finish ties everything together
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a pop of color and fresh flavor
Instructions
- Prep your vegetables:
- Rinse those Brussels sprouts, trim off the tough ends, and slice them in half. Dice your onion and mince the garlic so everything is ready to go once the heat is on.
- Sear the turkey:
- Heat your large skillet over medium-high with one tablespoon of olive oil. Add the turkey, breaking it apart with your spatula, and season it with a quarter teaspoon of salt, an eighth teaspoon of pepper, the paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until its browned and no longer pink, about five to six minutes.
- Set the turkey aside:
- Transfer the cooked turkey to a plate and wipe out most of the excess liquid from your skillet, but leave those browned bits behind. Theyre going to add so much flavor to the vegetables.
- Cook the aromatics:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Sauté your diced onion for about three minutes until it turns translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook for just thirty seconds until fragrant.
- Sear the sprouts:
- Place those halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the pan. Season with the remaining salt and pepper, then let them cook undisturbed for four minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust.
- Steam until tender:
- Stir the sprouts with the onions and garlic, pour in your broth or water, and cover the skillet. Let everything steam for four to five minutes until the sprouts are fork-tender.
- Bring it all together:
- Remove the lid and add the turkey back into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for two more minutes until the turkey is heated through and most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Finish with brightness:
- Turn off the heat and stir in that fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving hot.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become my go-to when friends come over for dinner on weeknights because it looks impressive but comes together in under half an hour. Theres something so satisfying about setting a steaming skillet right on the table and watching everyone dig in.
Making It Your Own
Ground chicken or even crumbled sausage work beautifully here if you want to switch up the protein. Sometimes I toss in toasted pine nuts or chopped pecans during the last minute of cooking for extra crunch.
Getting Extra Crispy
If your skillet is oven safe, pop the whole thing under the broiler for one to two minutes at the very end. The sprouts get even more caramelized and the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
Serving Ideas
This stands on its own as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with roasted sweet potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the juices. A drizzle of sriracha or balsamic glaze right before serving adds a restaurant style finish.
- Leftovers keep well for up to three days and actually reheat beautifully
- The flavors get even better after sitting in the fridge overnight
- This recipe doubles easily if you are feeding a crowd
Save to Pinterest There you have it, a skillet meal that will make you actually look forward to cooking on busy nights.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I substitute the ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or even a savory sausage would work wonderfully in this dish, offering a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the protein is fully cooked.
- → How can I achieve extra crispy Brussels sprouts?
For added crispness, after the dish is cooked and if your skillet is oven-safe, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning and ensure they become golden and slightly charred.
- → What can I use instead of fresh lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice provides the best brightness, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a very small amount of white wine vinegar can offer a similar acidic lift if lemon isn't available.
- → How should I store leftovers and for how long?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making this a great option for meal prep.
- → Are there any recommended additions for extra flavor or texture?
Certainly! Toasted pine nuts or chopped pecans can add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. A drizzle of sriracha for heat or balsamic glaze for sweetness can also elevate the dish just before serving.
- → Is this dish suitable for specific dietary needs?
This preparation is naturally high in protein and, if using a gluten-free broth, is suitable for a gluten-free diet. For dairy-free needs, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.