Turkey Skillet for Two: Apple & Sage
This gentle turkey skillet pairs lean turkey with soft apples and a touch of sage. It makes a warm, small-portion meal that is mild in flavor and easy to chew.
Cooking for one or two should be quick and low-effort. This skillet cooks in one pan and keeps leftovers small and manageable.
The dish has soft textures from cooked apples and quick polenta. It’s a comforting meal that won’t require a lot of standing or stirring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 ounces ground turkey (lean)
- 1 small apple (sweet variety), peeled and diced
- 1 small shallot or 1/4 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried sage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-fat milk or extra broth
- Salt and pepper to taste (use a small pinch of salt)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon plain yogurt or crème fraîche to finish
You can serve this creamy turkey skillet with a small side of rice, mashed potatoes, or soft bread if you like.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the shallot or onion and cook about 2 minutes until soft, then add the garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Add the ground turkey, break it into small pieces, and cook gently until just browned and no longer pink, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced apple and sage and cook 2–3 minutes so the apple softens slightly.
- Pour in the broth and milk, scrape the pan bottom, and let the mixture simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season with a small pinch of salt and pepper. If using, stir in the yogurt or crème fraîche off the heat for extra creaminess.
- Serve warm over soft polenta, mashed potatoes, or tender cooked rice.
Tips and Easy Variations
Make it easier to chew
- Peel the apple and cook it until very tender.
- Use mashed potatoes or soft polenta as a base to reduce chewing.
- Cook the turkey gently over medium heat to keep it tender.
Lighter for digestion
- Use low-fat milk or extra broth instead of full-fat dairy.
- Substitute unsweetened plant milk or extra broth to be dairy-free.
- Keep salt low and choose low-sodium broth.
Flavor swaps & add-ins
- Swap sage for thyme or a pinch of rosemary.
- Stir in a handful of baby spinach at the end for color and nutrients.
- Try lemony turkey meatballs or a creamy chicken-mushroom skillet for variety.
Quick tips
- Leftovers: loosen with warm broth or milk for a softer texture before serving.
- Freeze only the turkey mixture for up to 2 months; do not freeze polenta or mashed potatoes.
- Taste before adding salt and finish with yogurt for extra creaminess if desired.
Storage and Leftovers
Fridge
Cool leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer
You can freeze the turkey mixture for up to 2 months; do not freeze polenta or mashed potato sides as texture may change.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess and loosen the texture.
Conclusion
Give this turkey skillet for two a try for a small, gentle meal that cooks quickly and requires little cleanup.
It’s simple, soft in texture, and perfect when you want a cozy dinner without extra fuss; serve over polenta, mashed potatoes, or rice to keep it easy to eat.
FAQ
Can I use turkey sausage instead of ground turkey?▶
Yes, choose a mild, low-salt turkey sausage and remove any casing. Cook gently and taste for seasoning before serving.
What can I use instead of polenta?▶
Soft mashed potatoes, plain rice, or a slice of soft bread are all good bases that work well with this turkey skillet.
