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Close-up top-down view of a savory ground turkey and broccoli skillet with a slightly glossy brown sauce in a white ceramic bowl.

Ground Turkey and Broccoli Skillet: A Quick, Savory Weeknight Masterpiece

This 30-minute Ground Turkey and Broccoli Skillet features finely crumbled, browned turkey and vibrantly charred broccoli tossed in a savory, slightly glossy brown sauce, garnished perfectly with white sesame seeds and fresh parsley.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey 450g
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets 270g, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium white onion 150g, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp avocado or olive oil 30ml, divided
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce 80ml
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth 60ml
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar 30g
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch 15g
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger 5g, grated
  • 1 tbsp white sesame seeds 9g
  • 2 tbsp fresh green parsley 8g, finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Wok Essential for proper searing and charring.
  • 1 Small mixing bowl Used for whisking the sauce ingredients.

Method
 

Preparation and Cooking
  1. In a small mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch until completely dissolved and smooth.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to achieve slight charring. Add 2 tablespoons of water, cover immediately, and steam for 2 minutes until vibrant green. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tbsp (15ml) of oil, and toss in the finely chopped white onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until completely softened and translucent.
  4. Push the onions to the edge and add the ground turkey to the center of the pan. Break it apart into finely crumbled pieces and let it sear to develop a deep, browned crust. Stir and cook until no longer pink.
  5. Return the charred broccoli to the skillet. Give the prepared sauce a final whisk and pour it evenly over the mixture. Toss continuously for 1-2 minutes until the liquid transforms into a savory, glossy brown sauce that coats everything.
  6. Remove from heat. Generously sprinkle with white sesame seeds and finely chopped fresh green parsley. Serve immediately in shallow bowls.

Notes

Do Not Crowd the Pan: When blistering the broccoli, ensure the florets have space to breathe to prevent steaming.
Whisk the Sauce Twice: Cornstarch settles quickly, so whisk it again right before pouring into the skillet.