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Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey – Healthy, Cozy Skillet Dinner with Warm Spices

Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey is a nourishing, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners and healthy comfort food cravings. Sweet, caramelized butternut squash pairs beautifully with savory ground turkey, warm spices, and tender greens for a balanced dish that feels cozy without being heavy. This recipe is simple, wholesome, and naturally satisfying—made with lean protein, vegetables, and pantry spices. Finished with a light sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley, it’s a one-pan style meal that’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or clean eating goals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Roasted Butternut Squash
  • 1 medium butternut squash about 2–3 lbs, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Turkey & Veggie Skillet
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or frozen, thawed and squeezed dry
Finish
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley chopped (to taste)
  • These ingredients create a dish that is savory lightly sweet, warmly spiced, and perfectly balanced.

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash
Step 1:
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2:
  1. Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet.
Step 3:
  1. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and smoked paprika.
Step 4:
  1. Toss well and spread into an even layer.
Step 5:
  1. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. Cook the Ground Turkey
Step 6:
  1. While the squash roasts, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 7:
  1. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked.
Step 8:
  1. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 9:
  1. Stir in the garlic and cumin and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Combine Everything
Step 10:
  1. Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the turkey mixture.
Step 11:
  1. Gently toss to combine and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Step 12:
  1. Add the spinach and stir until just wilted.
Step 13:
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 14:
  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 15:
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet or microwave
Add a splash of water if needed
🥄 Variations
Extra veggies: Add zucchini or bell peppers
Dairy-free: Skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative
Spicier: Add chili flakes
Low-carb: Serve as-is or over greens
Grain bowl: Serve over rice or quinoa
Each variation keeps the dish flexible, hearty, and nutritious.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, balanced with lean protein and vegetables.
Can I use ground chicken?
Yes, it works perfectly.
Does cinnamon make it sweet?
No, it adds warmth, not sweetness.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and comforting.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, great for meal prep.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, roast straight from frozen.
Can I skip spinach?
Yes, or replace with kale.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, up to 2 months.
What goes well with it?
Salad, yogurt-based sauce, or grains.
🏁 Conclusion
Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey is a wholesome, satisfying meal that brings together sweet roasted vegetables, savory turkey, and warm spices in one comforting dish. Simple to make, nourishing, and full of flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.