Go Back
Turkey and White Bean Skillet recipe with fresh ingredients

Turkey and White Bean Skillet with Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce

A simple and flavorful one-pan meal featuring lean turkey and nutritious beans combined with burst cherry tomatoes and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights and cozy gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil Use either oil based on preference.
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes About 16 - 20 oz.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium lemons, zested and juiced
Main ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Plus more to taste.
  • 1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves For garnish.
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese For serving.

Method
 

Cooking the Tomatoes
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook undisturbed until the skins blister and begin to pop, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Press a few with the back of a spoon to release extra juice.
Adding Garlic
  1. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
  2. Add lemon juice from one lemon and taste. Add juice from the second lemon if desired.
  3. Scoop the mixture into a bowl and set aside.
Browning the Turkey
  1. In the same skillet, add the ground turkey and lemon zest.
  2. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the turkey until it's no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Add in the onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Return the tomato-garlic mixture to the skillet, along with the drained beans, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt.
  2. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. If too thick, pour in about 1/2 cup of water or broth.
Simmering
  1. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add more water or broth if needed.
Finishing Up
  1. Remove from heat and stir in the basil.
  2. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.
  3. Serve topped with Parmesan, extra basil, and more crushed red pepper if desired.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream at the end.