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Cheesy Ground Turkey & Broccoli Skillet - A Cozy, One-Pan Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean is ideal)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups small broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
  • 3/4 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Fresh lemon juice, to finish (about 1–2 teaspoons)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the broccoli: Cut into small, bite-size florets so they cook quickly. Rinse and set aside. Shred the cheeses if not pre-shredded.
  2. Brown the turkey: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds. Add ground turkey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking it up, until no longer pink and lightly browned, 5–7 minutes.
  3. Season it up: Sprinkle in smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir and cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  4. Steam-sauté the broccoli: Add broccoli and chicken broth. Stir, then cover and let steam 3–4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Uncover and let excess liquid simmer off for 1 minute.
  5. Make a quick sauce: In a small bowl, whisk milk, Dijon, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour into the skillet and stir. Reduce heat to medium and cook 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  6. Add the cheese: Turn heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan by the handful, letting each addition melt before adding more. If using Greek yogurt or sour cream, fold it in now. The mixture should be creamy and coat the turkey and broccoli.
  7. Finish and taste: Squeeze in a touch of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or mustard as needed.
  8. Serve: Sprinkle with fresh herbs if you like. Serve as is, or spoon over rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a heartier bowl.