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Tuscan Turkey and White Bean Skillet

A comforting one-skillet dinner featuring ground turkey, white beans, and kale, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Cooking medium that adds fruitiness.
  • 1 cup minced shallots (or yellow onion) Flavor base for the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
For the protein
  • 1 lb ground turkey (or chicken, sausage, lean beef, or meatless grounds) Lean protein source.
For flavoring
  • 2 Tbsp tomato paste Adds concentrated tomato flavor.
  • 1.5 tsp dried oregano Classic Italian flavor.
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds Adds a sweet, anise aroma.
  • 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Optional for mild heat.
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt Enhances flavors.
  • 0.5 tsp cracked black pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
For the liquid and beans
  • 0.75 cup vegetable broth Base for simmering the sauce.
  • 1 14.5-oz can diced fire-roasted tomatoes Adds smoky brightness.
  • 1 15-oz can butter beans (or cannellini beans) Adds creaminess and bulk.
  • 4 cups chopped kale Provides texture and nutrition.
For finishing
  • 0.25 cup heavy cream Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a creamy finish.
  • 1 loaf crusty bread For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add shallots or yellow onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground turkey, spreading the meat to the edges in an even layer. Let cook until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then break it up.
  4. Make a well in the center and add tomato paste, oregano, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until the tomato paste starts to caramelize.
Cooking
  1. Stir the mixture to incorporate and cook for 2 more minutes until aromatic. Season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Add vegetable broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, beans, and kale. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Gently simmer, uncovered, for 12 minutes.
  3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue simmering for about 3 more minutes until thick and creamy.
  4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Serving
  1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread.

Notes

This dish is forgiving and adaptable; feel free to swap proteins or adjust spices for personal preferences. Taste at the end to ensure it is seasoned correctly.