Turkey and Butternut Squash Bake is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines the savory richness of turkey with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. This hearty bake is perfect for colder months, offering a balance of flavors and textures that feels both satisfying and wholesome. It’s a simple yet delicious meal, perfect for a family dinner or as a make-ahead option for meal prepping.
The star ingredients are ground turkey and butternut squash, both of which bring distinct flavors to the dish. Ground turkey is a lean protein that pairs beautifully with the sweet, nutty taste of roasted butternut squash. The squash adds both sweetness and creaminess when baked, creating a wonderful contrast to the turkey. A mix of aromatic vegetables, such as onions, garlic, and bell peppers, enhances the dish’s overall depth and flavor.
To bring it all together, a savory seasoning mix is essential. Think along the lines of thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, which complement both the turkey and the squash. You can also add a touch of cumin or smoked paprika for warmth, or a drizzle of olive oil for richness. The entire mixture is then baked together, allowing the flavors to meld and creating a perfectly cooked dish that is both comforting and full of flavor.
One of the benefits of this bake is how adaptable it is. You can add a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, kale, or even carrots, to increase the nutrition and flavor. For a little extra indulgence, top the bake with some grated cheese before putting it in the oven, allowing it to melt and form a delicious golden crust.
Turkey and Butternut Squash Bake is a filling, one-pan meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s a perfect combination of protein, vegetables, and healthy carbs, making it both satisfying and balanced.

Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 butternut squash small, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme dried
- 1 tsp rosemary dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
- Add the butternut squash, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes, until the butternut squash is slightly tender.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, until the squash is fully cooked and the turkey is heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
I dunno… it was kinda bland. Might need more spices or something. 🤷♂️
Very easy to make, but bland. I added some chili flakes and it made a big difference!
This recipe is the bomb! I absolutely loved it! Making it again for sure!
I’m so glad you loved it! It’s one of my favorites too. What other recipes do you like?
Turkey and squash? Sounds weird, but I gave it a shot. It was surprisingly tasty! Who knew I liked squash?
Delicious! Made some variations though, added bell peppers and a pinch of cayenne. Yum!
I thought butternut squash was a fruit? 🤔 Anyway, good recipe!
Butternut squash is a fruit! It has seeds, so you’re right. 😄 Love this recipe, can’t wait to try it!
Really? I always thought it was a veggie. Anyway, sounds good! I might add some cheese on top.
It was okay, not really my favorite dish. But the boyfriend loved it!
My kids just refused to eat it. Maybe too healthy? They only want pizza. 🍕
Aww, that sucks! But healthy food is good too! Maybe they’ll like it more if you call it ‘turkey casserole’ instead?
Kids these days are so picky! Have you tried adding cheese on top? That might help!
Tasty! I used ground beef instead of turkey and it still came out great. Also, what’s thyme?
Honestly, I found the flavor a bit bland. Added more spices but still eh.
Who knew squash could taste so good?! I was surprised. More recipes like this, please!
I totally agree! I was skeptical at first, but this recipe changed my mind about squash for sure. Can’t wait to try it again!
I followed the recipe but the squash didn’t cook thoroughly. Should I have cut them smaller? Not sure about this one.
Luv it!!! I used ground beef instead cause that’s what I had, still turned out great!
This was so good! I never thought butternut squash could taste this delicious. Definitely making it again!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Butternut squash is a hidden gem. Have you tried adding some Parmesan on top? YUM!
Really? Butternut squash is just mushy, no offense. How can anyone find it delicious? 🤔
Nah, didn’t like it at all. It needed more flavor, I expected a punch but got a whisper.
Are you sure this is enough for 4 people? My family went for seconds, lol!
Yum yum yum!! So comforting and filling! My family devoured this meal! 😋
This sounds amazing! I can’t wait to try it with my family. Thanks for sharing!
Eh, not my favorite. I’ve tasted better turkey dishes. Maybe it’s just me.
I totally understand! Everyone has their own taste. Maybe try adding some spices next time? It might help!
Turkey doesn’t belong in a bake! It should be ground beef. This is wrong.
It’s okay, but I think it needs more garlic or somethin’. Just my opinion.
I totally agree! More garlic would make it sooo much better. It’s all about flavor, right?
This was sooo good! I loved how the butternut squash made it sweet, will def make again!
This was so yummy! My whole family loved it. Will definitely make again! ❤️
So glad your family enjoyed it! It’s one of my favorites too. ❤️
I dunno, sounds a bit weird to mix turkey with squash. 🤔
Turkey and squash? Sounds weird but actually tastes great! Who woulda thought? 🤪
I skipped the thyme because I didn’t have it, still good! But I like thyme. Maybe next time.
I think it would be even better with the thyme! But hey, glad it turned out good anyway!
Is 375 degrees really enough? Mine took longer to bake. 🤔
I’ve always found that some ovens just don’t heat as evenly. Maybe try a thermometer next time!
It was okay, but too watery for my taste. Maybe less broth next time?
This dish was amazing! So easy to make and the flavors really come together. My family loved it.
I’m glad your family enjoyed it! It’s a hit in my house too. 😊
Sounds good, but my family doesn’t like squash. Any subs that work?
I really enjoyed this recipe! Easy to make and healthy too. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Glad you liked it! I made it last week and it was so good! Perfect balance of flavors.
I messed up and used sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash! Still turned out fine tho!
Followed the recipe exactly but ended up overcooking the turkey. Not sure if I’ll try again.
Super easy to make! I cut the cooking time by 10 mins and it was perfect.