I love this Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey because it is warm, simple, and full of fall flavors. I make it on weeknights when I want a meal that is quick and hearty, and I often share ideas from it with readers who love squash too, like my take on butternut squash gnocchi with sausage.
My Dad James asked for this on cool nights; he likes it with a bit of crusty bread and a smile.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
The Tools That Help
I keep this dish simple with a few tools. Use a sharp knife, a cutting board, a large bowl to toss the squash, a baking sheet, and a skillet. A spatula and a meat thermometer help, but they are not required.
The Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in one layer.
- Roast the squash for about 25 to 30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
- While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the ground turkey in the skillet until browned and fully cooked, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine the roasted squash with the cooked turkey and mix gently.
- Serve warm and garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
I often make small swaps to keep it light. Use less oil or a spray of oil on the squash, choose lean ground turkey, and add a big handful of greens at the end. For a soup idea that keeps the same sweet notes, see my butternut squash sweet potato soup.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs well with simple sides. Try a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or warm bread. For a heartier meal idea with similar flavors, I like serving it alongside butternut squash lasagna soup with kale and mozzarella.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or the squash will steam and not brown. Check the turkey to make sure it is fully cooked and well seasoned. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end so the dish is balanced.
Storing Your Creation
Cool the dish to room temperature, then store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or in the oven until warmed through.
A Final Warm Word
I hope this recipe brings comfort to your table like it does to mine. I make it when I want food that feels like home and feeds the family with little fuss.
Answering Your Questions
Can I make Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey ahead?
Yes. I make it a day ahead often. Store it in the fridge up to 3 to 4 days and reheat in a skillet or oven.
Can I use a different protein in Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey?
Yes. I swap ground turkey for ground chicken, pork, or a plant-based crumble. Sausage adds more spice and flavor if you like that.
How do I reheat Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey without drying it out?
I reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water and cover the pan for a few minutes. This keeps the squash tender and the turkey moist.
Print
Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A warm and hearty dish featuring roasted butternut squash and ground turkey, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in one layer.
- Roast the squash for about 25 to 30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
- While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the ground turkey in the skillet until browned and fully cooked, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine the roasted squash with the cooked turkey and mix gently.
- Serve warm and garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
Notes
For a lighter dish, use less oil or a spray of oil on the squash. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or warm bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: butternut squash, ground turkey, fall flavors, healthy dinner, easy recipe