Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey: 7 Truly Delicious

If you’re anything like me, you’ve had those evenings where the day felt about three hours too long, everyone keeps asking “what’s for dinner?”, and you just want something satisfying without spending forever in the kitchen. That’s exactly why Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey has become one of my weeknight heroes. It’s cozy, healthy, budget-friendly, and—most importantly—bursting with warm, autumn-inspired flavors that feel like a hug on a plate.

And yes… it also happens to make your kitchen smell ridiculously good.
You’re welcome.

This recipe blends hearty roasted squash, savory turkey, earthy Swiss chard, and fluffy couscous into a wholesome bowl that checks every box. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you can grab on any grocery run. Busy moms, working women, or anyone trying to keep dinner delicious and doable—you’re in the right place.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey

Let’s be honest: not every “healthy” recipe makes you want to run to the table. But this Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey hits all the right notes.

• It’s naturally sweet and savory—thanks to maple syrup, spices, and lean ground turkey.
• It’s hearty but still light enough to enjoy without the post-dinner slump.
• It’s easy to customize (especially helpful if you have a picky eater or two lurking around).
• And it gives you that “I’m eating something good for me” glow.

Plus, you know I love a good one-bowl situation. Less cleanup, more living.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything here is simple and easy to find—but each part comes together like magic.

For the Roasted Squash

• 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp canola oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Couscous

• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup couscous

For the Turkey & Greens

• 1 1/2 tsp canola oil
• 1 1/2 cups red onion, finely minced
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked adds amazing flavor!)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 cups Swiss chard, chopped (stems included)

To Finish

• Juice from 1 lemon

How to Make This Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey

1. Roast the Butternut Squash

This is where the magic begins. The warm spices, the hint of maple syrup… you’ll want to roast a double batch.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with canola oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the squash onto a lined baking sheet—they shouldn’t touch (crowding = steaming, not roasting!).
4. Roast for 35 minutes, then switch the oven to broil for 3 minutes to caramelize the edges.
5. Set aside and try not to eat half of them before dinner. Trust me, it’s a challenge.

2. Prepare the Couscous

This part is practically foolproof. No simmering, no stirring.

1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
2. Add the couscous to a bowl and pour the boiling water on top.
3. Cover and let it sit 7 minutes, undisturbed.
4. Fluff with a fork.
5. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of salt if you want more flavor.

3. Cook the Ground Turkey & Greens

This is your savory base—the part that ties everything together.

1. Heat 1 1/2 tsp canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced red onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the ground turkey along with lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook for about 3 minutes, breaking the turkey apart as it browns.
5. Add the chopped Swiss chard and cook 2 more minutes until everything is tender and fragrant.

4. Assemble and Serve

The fun part!

1. Add a fluffy scoop of couscous to each plate.
2. Top with the turkey and greens mixture.
3. Add a generous portion of roasted squash on top or around the sides—totally up to you.
4. Finish with fresh lemon juice squeezed right before serving.

That last squeeze brightens everything like sunshine on a cloudy day. Don’t skip it!

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh nutmeg if you can. It gives the squash deeper warmth (and makes you feel like a kitchen superstar).
• Don’t overwork the couscous. Fluff gently so it stays light and airy.
• Swap the Swiss chard for spinach or kale if that’s what you have.
• Want more protein? Add chickpeas along with the turkey for extra staying power.
• And don’t panic if your squash isn’t perfectly uniform. Real-life cooking isn’t a cooking show—your cubes are allowed to have personality.

A little story here: I made this recipe for my family during a busy fall week when everyone was tired and I needed a meal that felt nurturing. My kids ended up snacking on the roasted squash right off the baking sheet, which—let’s be honest—was a proud mom moment. Since then, this dish has become one of our cozy-weather go-tos.

FAQs About Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey

A Cozy Meal You’ll Want All Season Long

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey is more than just a dinner—it’s a warm, nourishing bowl that brings comfort after a long day. It’s wholesome without being boring, simple without being plain, and delicious enough to impress anyone you serve it to.

And if you’re like me, you might find yourself making it again and again, especially on those nights when you want something satisfying with minimal fuss. Keep this one in your back pocket—it’s a keeper.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking, friend.

Cozy Recipes You’ll Love Next

If this Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey won your heart (and your taste buds!), here are a few more warm, comforting dishes your kitchen will thank you for. Each one pairs beautifully with the flavors you just enjoyed — perfect for fall evenings, busy weeknights, or anytime you want something delicious without the fuss.

• Craving something extra cozy and creamy? This Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup wraps you up like a soft autumn blanket.
• Want another hearty fall-inspired dinner? Try this irresistible Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash — a total flavor hug.
• Looking for a veggie side that steals the show? These caramelized Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon bites are pure magic.
• If you’re in the mood for another quick and wholesome dinner bowl, this Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe is fresh, simple, and packed with flavor.

Feel free to add any of these to your weekly rotation — your future self (and your dinner table) will be very, very happy.

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