Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

introduction

Since I was very young, cooking has always held a special place in my life. My name is Adam, and it was alongside my mother that I discovered the magic of flavors and homemade dishes. This dish, Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet, grew from those kitchen lessons. It pairs lean ground turkey with crisp-tender Brussels sprouts for a fast, nourishing one-pan meal.

People search for Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet because they want a healthy, quick dinner that still tastes like home. In this article you will learn what this skillet is, why it works, and how to make it perfectly every time. If you like easy weeknight meals, you might also enjoy a rich, comforting casserole like the cheesy ground beef and rice casserole I grew up enjoying.

For more recipes follow me on Facebook and Pinterest.

u7835592976 Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skille 45fcf6b0 443d 4fcd 8315 4b71926ffbd6 3
Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet 13
Table of Contents
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
u7835592976 Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skille 45fcf6b0 443d 4fcd 8315 4b71926ffbd6 3

Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: issam-blogger
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Carb

Description

A quick, nourishing one-pan meal with lean ground turkey and crisp-tender Brussels sprouts.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent.
  3. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
  4. Add Brussels sprouts and stir well.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Cover and let cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until Brussels sprouts are tender.
  7. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or top with grated Parmesan. Store in airtight containers and consume within four days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

why make this recipe

Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet delivers big flavor with little fuss. It cooks in one pan. Cleanup stays easy. The lean turkey keeps calories and saturated fat low. Brussels sprouts add fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying crunch. You get protein, vegetables, and warm comfort all on one plate.

This skillet suits many needs. Use it for a fast family dinner, an easy meal prep dish, or a healthy post-workout dinner. It uses minimal pantry staples. You can scale the recipe up for guests or down for two. If you like simple, bold meals, this skillet will fit your routine. And if you cook other quick protein-and-veg dinners, try pairing it with tips from a tasty beef and broccoli Chinese recipe for variety.

how to make Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Start with a hot skillet. Heat oil until it shimmers. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add the ground turkey and break it into small pieces. Cook the turkey until it browns and releases no pink.

Add the halved Brussels sprouts. Stir to combine. Pour in chicken broth or water to create steam. Cover the pan to trap heat. Let the Brussels sprouts cook through. They should be tender but still slightly firm. Uncover and cook a few more minutes if you like them browned.

Pay attention to timing. Overcooking makes sprouts mushy. Under-cooking leaves them too firm. Browning the turkey gives the dish depth. Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic or drying the turkey. If you want more caramelization, finish uncovered and increase heat for one to two minutes while stirring.

Common mistakes include crowding the pan and adding too much liquid. If the pan is crowded, the sprouts will steam instead of sear. If you add too much liquid, the dish will taste diluted. Aim for a balance of steam and sear for the best texture.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water

Each ingredient plays a clear role. The ground turkey gives lean protein and a mild base that soaks up seasoning. Brussels sprouts provide texture, sweetness, and a hint of bitterness that balances the turkey. Onion and garlic build savory flavor. Olive oil helps with browning and mouthfeel. Chicken broth adds moisture and a savory boost without fat.

Swap suggestions: use turkey sausage or lean ground chicken if you want more spice or a slightly different flavor. Substitute vegetable broth to make it fully vegetarian with a plant-based ground “meat” alternative. For a richer finish, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts and lean, fresh ground turkey for the best results.

u7835592976 Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skille 45fcf6b0 443d 4fcd 8315 4b71926ffbd6 1
Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet 14

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
  4. Add Brussels sprouts and stir well.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Cover and let cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until Brussels sprouts are tender.
  7. Serve hot.

For perfect results, keep the heat at medium. Brown the turkey first to build flavor. Use the chicken broth to steam the sprouts just enough to be tender. Taste and adjust salt near the end so you do not over-season. Let the skillet rest a minute before serving to let flavors settle.

how to serve Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Serve this skillet straight from the pan for a rustic feel. It pairs well with simple sides like mashed sweet potatoes, cauliflower rice, or a crisp green salad. If you want a heartier plate, spoon it over brown rice or quinoa. For a low-carb option, serve it with steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles.

Texture and flavor should balance. The turkey brings savory depth. The Brussels sprouts add bite and a mild nutty sweetness. Add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. For a silky finish, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a spoonful of Greek yogurt just before serving.

You can also play with sauces. A drizzle of soy-ginger glaze transforms this into an Asian-inspired skillet. Or add a spoonful of pesto for herbal brightness. For gravy lovers, try the best turkey gravy on the side for a cozy twist.

how to store Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Cool the skillet to room temperature within two hours. Transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if it looks dry. You can also microwave single portions, stirring halfway through.

To freeze, cool completely and pack into freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For safety, always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid refreezing defrosted leftovers.

tips to make Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet

Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor. Trim the stem and halve each sprout so pieces cook evenly. Pat the turkey dry before browning; moisture prevents proper sear. Let the turkey develop a golden crust for better flavor. Stir sparingly while the sprouts cook to allow edges to brown.

Season in stages. Season the turkey while it cooks, then taste and adjust after the broth evaporates. If you want crispier sprouts, remove the lid for the last few minutes and let excess moisture evaporate. For more complexity, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar near the end.

variation (if any)

  • Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeño and increase red pepper flakes. Finish with a squeeze of lime.
  • Mediterranean twist: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a teaspoon of oregano. Top with crumbled feta.
  • Sweet-potato skillet: Add diced sweet potato with the onion and cook until tender. This adds heft and a sweet counterpoint to the sprouts.
  • Asian-inspired: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, and a dash of rice vinegar. Top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  • Comfort upgrade: Mix in cooked pasta shells and a splash of cream for a heartier one-pan casserole.

Each variation keeps the basic method but shifts flavors. The Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet adapts well to herbs, spices, and pantry swaps.

u7835592976 Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skille 45fcf6b0 443d 4fcd 8315 4b71926ffbd6 0
Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet 15

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet?

You can, but thaw and drain them first. Frozen sprouts release extra water. That can make the skillet soggy. Pat them dry and reduce added broth.

How long does Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet take to cook?

Active cook time is about 20 to 25 minutes. Prep takes 5 to 10 minutes. Total time is roughly 30 minutes for most cooks.

Is this recipe low carb and keto-friendly?

Yes. With no starchy sides, Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet stays low in carbs. Skip sweet potatoes or rice to keep it keto-friendly.


Conclusion

This Healthy Brussels Sprouts and Ground Turkey Skillet is a quick, flexible meal you can make any night of the week. For inspiration on similar one-pan turkey and vegetable combinations, see this Ground Turkey Brussels Sprouts Skillet | My Heart Beets recipe that offers a different spice profile. If you like simple skillet dinners, check this Easy Ground Turkey And Brussel Sprouts Skillet | Mamazilla for another take. For a version that adds sweet potatoes and apples, try the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet with Brussels Sprouts & Apples guide.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star