Creamy Turkey and Broccoli Penne Skillet Recipe
Introduction
This Creamy Turkey Broccoli Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal that comes together quickly. With tender turkey sausage, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy sauce coating penne pasta, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious.
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 broccoli florets during the last two minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté turkey sausage until lightly browned, about five minutes.
- Step 3: Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional two to three minutes until softened.
- Step 4: Whisk cornstarch into whole milk, then pour into skillet. Simmer while stirring until sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Step 6: Combine cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.
Tips & Variations
- Use turkey Italian sausage for extra flavor or substitute with chicken sausage if preferred.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the cheddar.
- Swap penne with rotini or fusilli pasta for a different texture that holds the sauce well.
- Include other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking, adjusting cooking time slightly until tender.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based milk and vegan cheese substitutes. You can also omit the cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
PrintCreamy Turkey and Broccoli Penne Skillet Recipe
This Creamy Turkey Broccoli Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal combining tender penne pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and savory turkey sausage in a luscious cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the dish balances protein, vegetables, and creamy goodness for a satisfying and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main 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
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Add the fresh broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking to ensure they remain crisp-tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Turkey Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it apart, and cook until it is lightly browned and cooked through, about five minutes.
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, for two to three minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch into the whole milk until fully combined. Pour the milk mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about three to five minutes.
- Add Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese until completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked penne pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage or vegetarian sausage for variation.
- For a lighter version, use 2% or skim milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly to 2 teaspoons.
- To add extra flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the sausage.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for a larger family meal or leftovers.
Keywords: Turkey sausage skillet, broccoli pasta, creamy pasta skillet, one-pan dinner, easy weeknight meal
