Brussels Sprouts Ground Turkey Skillet

Crisp-edged Brussels sprouts sizzle beside savory ground turkey in this satisfying one-pan dinner. Aromatic garlic and paprika infuse every bite, while fresh lemon juice adds brightness. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley for a wholesome, flavorful meal.

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This easy American-style skillet is a go-to for healthy weeknight dinners. By searing the Brussels sprouts cut-side down, you achieve that coveted golden-brown crunch that pairs beautifully with the seasoned turkey and aromatic onions.

Ingredients

• Proteins: 1 pound (450 g) ground turkey (preferably lean)
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved; 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup); 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Oils & Liquids: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; ¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium chicken broth or water; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Seasonings: ½ teaspoon kosher salt (divided); ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (divided); ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Garnishes: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare all ingredients: rinse Brussels sprouts, trim off tough ends, and halve. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and let it shimmer.

Step 3

Add ground turkey. Break apart with a spatula and season with ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until no longer pink, 5–6 minutes.

Step 4

Transfer turkey to a plate; set aside. Wipe out excess liquid from skillet, leaving browned bits.

Step 5

Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to skillet; reduce heat to medium.

Step 6

Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in minced garlic; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 8

Place halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Season with remaining salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 9

Stir Brussels sprouts with onions and garlic. Add broth or water, cover, and steam 4–5 minutes until sprouts are fork-tender.

Step 10

Remove lid and return turkey to skillet. Stir to combine and cook 2 minutes, or until heated through and liquid is mostly evaporated.

Step 11

Turn off heat. Stir in lemon juice; adjust seasoning to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.

Step 12

Serve hot directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra crispness, broil the finished skillet in an oven-safe pan for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking. If you are sensitive to allergens, ensure you check your chicken broth labels for gluten and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or even Italian sausage for a deeper flavor profile. To add a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped pecans just before serving.

Serviervorschläge

This dish is delicious on its own, but it is also fantastic served over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa. For those who enjoy a bit of spice or sweetness, a drizzle of sriracha or a balsamic glaze right before serving elevates the flavor.

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Whether you're meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick family dinner, this Brussels sprouts and turkey skillet is a nutritious, flavorful win that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute. You can also try turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even crumbled plant-based sausage for different flavor profiles while keeping the same cooking method.

→ How do I get the Brussels sprouts crispy?

The key is placing halved sprouts cut-side down in the hot skillet and letting them cook undisturbed for 4 minutes. This direct contact creates the golden-brown caramelized edges. Avoid stirring too frequently during this initial searing phase.

→ What sides pair well with this skillet?

This protein-rich dish stands well on its own, but you could serve it over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Crusty bread for soaking up the juices or a simple arugula salad with vinaigrette also complements the flavors nicely.

→ Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely. This skillet keeps well in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. The Brussels sprouts may lose some crispness but remain flavorful.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth or water. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. If serving with bread or as part of a larger meal, ensure your sides accommodate your dietary needs.