Creamy Turkey Broccoli Penne Skillet Recipe
Introduction
This creamy turkey broccoli skillet is a comforting and easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender penne pasta, savory turkey sausage, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy sauce, it’s a delicious dish the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 13.9 ounces turkey sausage
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, adding the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the turkey sausage until lightly browned, about five minutes.
- Step 3: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional two to three minutes until softened.
- Step 4: Whisk cornstarch into the whole milk, then pour the mixture into the skillet. Simmer while stirring until the sauce thickens, about three to five minutes.
- Step 5: Reduce heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 6: Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Use Italian turkey sausage for added herbs and spices to enhance flavor.
- Swap out broccoli for cauliflower or spinach depending on your preference.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle will work well with this dish.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
PrintCreamy Turkey Broccoli Penne Skillet Recipe
This Creamy Turkey Broccoli Skillet is a quick and comforting one-pan meal featuring penne pasta, tender broccoli florets, savory turkey sausage, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, it blends wholesome ingredients into a creamy, flavorful dish that comes together easily on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Protein
- 13.9 ounces turkey sausage
Dairy and Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, adding the fresh broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking to ensure they stay tender-crisp. Drain the pasta and broccoli mixture and set aside.
- Sauté Turkey Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the turkey sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through, about five minutes.
- Cook Aromatics: Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey sausage. Sauté together for an additional two to three minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Whisk cornstarch into the whole milk until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet. Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about three to five minutes.
- Melt Cheese into Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and creates a creamy sauce.
- Combine and Season: Add the cooked penne pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, gently tossing to coat evenly in the cheese sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage with chicken or pork sausage if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- To add extra flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley.
- Ensure not to overcook broccoli to maintain a slight crunch and bright green color.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: turkey sausage skillet, creamy pasta recipe, turkey broccoli pasta, easy dinner skillet, one-pan pasta dish
