Description
This Creamy Turkey Broccoli Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal combining tender penne pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and savory turkey sausage in a rich, cheesy milk sauce. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that balances protein, veggies, and creamy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Produce
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Meat
- 13.9 ounces turkey sausage
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pasta & Grains
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Pantry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (estimated, based on instructions)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. About two minutes before the pasta is done, add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot. Once both are tender, drain and set aside.
- Sauté Turkey Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the unsalted butter, then add the turkey sausage. Cook for about five minutes until the sausage is lightly browned, stirring occasionally to break it up evenly.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for an additional two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Prepare and Add Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the whole milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, stirring frequently. Continue simmering the sauce for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Melt Cheese Into Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese until fully melted and blended into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Combine Pasta and Broccoli With Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta and broccoli with the cheesy sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season the skillet generously with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lower fat option, substitute reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- You can add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy turkey skillet, turkey sausage pasta, broccoli pasta skillet, one-pan dinner, cheesy pasta recipe
