Introduction

This creamy turkey broccoli skillet is a comforting and easy weeknight meal that combines tender pasta, savory turkey sausage, and vibrant broccoli in a rich cheese sauce. It comes together quickly and is perfect for a satisfying dinner any day of the week.

Creamy Turkey Broccoli Penne Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

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 the penne pasta according to package instructions, adding the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the turkey sausage until it is 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 the onion softens.
Step 4: Whisk cornstarch into the whole milk until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet. Simmer while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about three to five minutes.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother sauce, ensure the milk and cornstarch mixture is whisked well before adding to the skillet to avoid lumps.
Substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Add red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
Use a sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan for extra depth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove 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 a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with most pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or shells. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the whole milk and cheddar cheese with plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives. The sauce may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.

Creamy Turkey Broccoli Penne Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 748 reviews

This Creamy Turkey Broccoli Skillet is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal featuring tender penne pasta, nutritious broccoli florets, savory turkey sausage, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines protein, veggies, and carbs in a creamy, satisfying dish.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

8 ounces penne pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Meat and Dairy

13.9 ounces turkey sausage
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Produce and Seasonings

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, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Add the fresh broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking to blanch them until tender-crisp. Drain both pasta and broccoli, then set aside.
Sauté turkey sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then add the turkey sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage 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 turkey sausage. Continue to sauté for two to three minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, releasing aromatic flavors.
Make cheese sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk cornstarch into the whole milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
Add cheese: Lower the heat, then stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Combine and season: Add the cooked penne pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy turkey broccoli skillet.

Notes

For a lower fat option, substitute whole milk with 2% or skim milk, noting the sauce may be less creamy.
You can use pre-cooked turkey sausage or substitute with Italian sausage or chicken sausage.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta.
Shredded cheese can be substituted with sharp cheddar or a cheese blend according to personal preference.
Adding red pepper flakes during sautéing can add a bit of heat to the dish.

Keywords: creamy turkey skillet, turkey sausage recipe, broccoli pasta skillet, cheesy turkey pasta, one-pan dinner