Turkey Hash with Sweet Potatoes and Turnips

A Busy Mom's Delight: Turkey Hash for the Week

Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and ensuring everyone gets a nutritious meal on the table, finding time for elaborate cooking feels like a distant dream. That’s why I've fallen in love with recipes that are both delicious and incredibly efficient. This Turkey Hash with Sweet Potatoes and Turnips is a perfect example. It's a one-pan wonder that transforms leftover turkey (or even a rotisserie chicken from the store!) into a hearty and satisfying meal, ready in under an hour.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes and turnips perfectly complementing the savory turkey. The creamy sauce adds a touch of richness that elevates this dish beyond a simple hash. I love that I can prep the vegetables ahead of time – chopping them while the kids are doing their homework, for example – making the actual cooking process even faster when it's time to make dinner.

Why this recipe works for busy weeknights:

• Minimal cleanup: One skillet means less washing up – a huge bonus after a long day!
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Carrots, parsnips, or even Brussels sprouts would work wonderfully.
• Leftover friendly: It's the ultimate way to use up leftover turkey or chicken. No more food waste!
• Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze portions for a quick weeknight meal later.
• Kid-approved: My kids love this dish – it’s a sneaky way to get them to eat their veggies!

Beyond the practical advantages, this turkey hash offers a delightful flavor profile. The creamy sauce is incredibly flavorful, and the perfectly cooked vegetables provide a lovely textural contrast to the tender turkey. The subtle hint of tarragon adds an unexpected sophistication, making it a dish that could easily impress guests.

This recipe has become a staple in my home, a comforting and delicious dish that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a testament to the fact that nourishing meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a delicious and efficient way to enjoy the flavors of fall, even when you're short on time and energy.

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If you don't have fresh tarragon, dried tarragon will work, but use about half the amount.
• Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for extra flavor and freshness.
• To make this dish even quicker, use pre-cut vegetables.
• Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for a heartier meal.

This Turkey Hash with Sweet Potatoes and Turnips isn’t just a recipe; it's a time-saving solution, a delicious meal, and a comforting reminder that even on the busiest of days, nourishing and flavorful food is entirely possible. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a cherished part of your family’s routine, a dependable friend in the chaos of everyday life.

So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, give this recipe a try. You might just find your new family favorite!

Step-by-step

• Combine turkey bones, broth and bay leaf in large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Add potato and turnips. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until vegetables are almost tender, about 12 minutes. Remove vegetables using slotted spoon.
• Simmer broth until reduced to 1 1/2 cups, about 15 minutes. Strain.
• Cut vegetables into 1/2 inch dice.
• Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
• Increase heat to high and add mushrooms, turnips and potato. Cook until vegetables are golden brown, stirring frequently, about 4 minutes.
• Add chicken broth and boil until slightly syrupy, about 5 minutes.
• Mix in turkey and stir to heat through.
• Remove from heat.
• Combine cream and yolk.
• Add to turkey.
• Mix in 1 teaspoon tarragon.
• Place over low heat and stir until sauce thickens, about 30 seconds; do not boil.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Sprinkle with minced tarragon and serve.