Tuscan Turkey and White Bean Skillet

A warm, comforting aroma fills the kitchen as you prepare the Tuscan Turkey and White Bean Skillet, a dish that combines hearty flavors and nutritious ingredients in just one pan. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant meal that delivers on both taste and convenience. The blend of spices and creamy elements makes it a satisfying dish everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a gathering with friends. It can easily be made ahead of time and stored, making it a go-to option for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It uses a variety of textures, from creamy beans to tender kale.
• The dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it quick and easy.
• One pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• The flavor combination is robust, with a hint of spice to excite your taste buds.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Tuscan-inspired meal.

For the Base

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup minced shallots (or yellow onion)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb. ground turkey (or ground chicken, sausage, lean ground beef, or meatless grounds)

For the Flavor

• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. fennel seeds
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (depending on desired level of spice)
• 1/2 tsp. each kosher salt and cracked black pepper

For the Liquid

• 3/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5-oz.) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes (do not drain)
• 1 (15-oz.) can butter beans (or any white bean; cannellini beans also work great) (do not drain)

For the Greens and Cream

• 4 packed cups chopped kale, stems and ribs removed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

For Serving

• Crusty bread for serving (sourdough or baguette)

For ground turkey, you can substitute ground chicken or sausage.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Yellow onion for shallots
• Ground turkey for ground beef or meatless grounds
• Butter beans for cannellini beans
• Heavy cream can be replaced with coconut milk

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your Tuscan turkey skillet.

Heat the oil

Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add shallots (or yellow onion) and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Add the turkey

Add ground turkey and, using a wooden spoon or spatula, spread the meat to the edges in an even layer. Let cook until the bottom of the meat is browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then stir the turkey, breaking up the meat into small pieces.

Incorporate the flavors

Create a well in the center of the pan and add tomato paste, oregano, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until the tomato paste starts to caramelize. Stir to incorporate into the meat mixture and cook for 2 more minutes until aromatic. Season with salt and black pepper.

Add the liquids

Add broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, beans, and kale. Increase heat to bring mixture to a simmer. Gently simmer, uncovered, for 12 minutes.

Stir in the cream and cheese

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue simmering, uncovered, for about 3 more minutes, until the mixture is thick and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Serve it up

Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with crusty bread.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, freeze for longer storage.
Reheat: Microwave or stovetop for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Sauté shallots until lightly golden for added sweetness.
• Don’t skip the simmering step; it helps develop the flavors.
• Use fresh kale for optimal texture and flavor.
• Adjust spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with a side salad for extra freshness.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a delicious dinner.
• Serve as a comforting meal on chilly nights.