Name: Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed; 1 lb ground turkey; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

A wholesome and cozy one-pan dinner, this Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey brings together naturally sweet roasted squash, lean ground turkey, and savory herbs in a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and nourishing. It’s great for a hearty dinner or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed

1 lb ground turkey

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 small yellow onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

I spread the cubed butternut squash on the sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme. I toss it all to coat evenly.

I roast the squash for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden.

While the squash roasts, I heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

I sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

I add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 7–9 minutes until browned and fully cooked through.

I season the turkey with paprika, the rest of the thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing it all together.

Once the squash is ready, I add it to the skillet and gently stir to combine everything. I let it cook for another 1–2 minutes to bring all the flavors together.

I garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories per serving: 310 kcal

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different protein option.

For added spice, I like to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the turkey.

Roasted brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes work well as a substitute or addition to the butternut squash.

A sprinkle of goat cheese or feta (if not avoiding dairy) adds a creamy, tangy touch.

I’ve also stirred in baby spinach at the end for extra greens.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm individual portions in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes, or reheat the whole batch in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout.
This dish also freezes well. I let it cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, I thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the oven.

FAQs

How do I peel and cube a butternut squash easily?

I start by slicing off both ends, then use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. I cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then chop it into cubes. If I’m short on time, I sometimes buy pre-cut squash.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often roast the squash and cook the turkey mixture in advance, then store them separately and combine when I’m ready to eat. It keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prep.

Is this recipe good for a low-carb diet?

Definitely. Butternut squash is lower in carbs than many other root vegetables, and when combined with lean protein, this meal fits well into low-carb or moderate-carb diets.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, I’ve used frozen cubed squash when I’m in a rush. I roast it the same way, though it might need a couple of extra minutes in the oven to brown nicely.

What can I serve with this dish?

I usually enjoy it on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad or a side of cauliflower rice if I want to stretch the meal a bit further.

Conclusion

This Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey is one of my go-to dinners when I want something warm, clean, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, full of nutrients, and versatile enough to customize to my liking. Whether I’m cooking for myself or feeding a crowd, it always hits the spot.

📖 Recipe:

Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A comforting and wholesome one-pan dinner featuring roasted butternut squash, lean ground turkey, and aromatic herbs — great for healthy weeknight meals or meal prep.