Turkey Lentil Tomato Skillet with Cheddar
A hearty one-pan skillet of lean ground turkey, lentils, tomatoes, and spinach finished with a modest layer of melted cheddar.
- Calories
- 650
- Protein
- 43g
- Carbs
- 62g
- Fat
- 23g
Per serving
Ingredients
For 4 servings · 45 min total
- lean ground turkey3/4 lb
- lentils3/4 cup
- crushed tomatoes2 cup
- yellow oniondiced3/8
- carrotdiced3/8
- frozen spinachthawed and squeezed dry4 oz
- shredded cheddar cheese3 oz
- garlicminced1
- tomato paste1 tbsp
- olive oil4 tsp
- dried oregano1 tsp
- red pepper flakes1/4 tsp
- kosher salt1 tsp
- black pepper1/2 tsp
Instructions
- Dice the onion and carrot, and mince the garlic. Rinse the lentils under cool water. Pat the ground turkey dry if needed. Do not rinse it. Season the turkey with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot with a pinch of kosher salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until translucent and softened. Add the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 30-60 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey. Break it into small pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, until browned and the thickest pieces read 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Move the turkey mixture to a plate, then wash the board, knife, and your hands with soap and water before touching anything else.
- Return the skillet to medium heat. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, lentils, and enough water to cover the lentils by about 1 inch. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce is thickened.
- Stir in the spinach and the cooked turkey. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is hot and the skillet reaches 165°F (74°C) throughout. Taste and adjust with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Sprinkle the cheddar over the skillet. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
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Let's Get Hot provides general wellness and nutrition planning, not medical advice. Calorie targets, timelines, and grocery costs are estimates. Always verify product labels and ingredients yourself when managing serious allergies, and consult a healthcare or nutrition professional before making significant dietary changes.