If you’re craving a dish that beautifully balances savory and sweet with a nourishing kick, then you’ll love this Easy Turkey Cranberry Hash with Poached Egg Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of lean ground turkey, tart fresh cranberries, and colorful vegetables all sautéed to perfection, topped with delicately poached eggs that bring luscious creaminess to each bite. This dish is comfort food reimagined—full of texture, warmth, and bursts of flavor, making it a go-to meal for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these fresh, simple ingredients is the secret to how this dish gets its amazing flavor and inviting appearance. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding protein, bright pops of color, or layers of savory goodness that come together effortlessly.
- Ground Turkey: Provides a lean source of protein that keeps the dish hearty without heaviness.
- Fresh Cranberries: Adds tartness and vibrant color that contrast delightfully with the savory elements.
- Onion: Diced to bring sweetness and depth as it softens.
- Bell Pepper: Preferably red or yellow, diced for a crisp texture and bright, cheerful hues.
- Garlic: Minced to infuse a rich aromatic layer that wakes up the palate.
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the turkey and vegetables gently, adding subtle fruitiness.
- Eggs: Large eggs for poaching, offering a silky richness that perfectly finishes the dish.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped as a fresh, herbal garnish that brightens and balances the flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
How to Make Easy Turkey Cranberry Hash with Poached Egg Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. This is your flavor base and it ensures the veggies and turkey cook evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add your diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. This step gently coaxes out the onion’s natural sweetness, laying the groundwork for the hash’s comforting flavor.
Step 3: Add the Bell Pepper
Next, toss in the diced bell pepper and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes. The peppers add vibrant color and a slightly sweet crunch that’s so satisfying.
Step 4: Garlic Goes In
Stir in minced garlic and allow it to cook for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Garlic’s warm aroma will instantly awaken your senses and build aromatic depth.
Step 5: Cook the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink. This lean protein takes center stage here, keeping the dish both healthy and hearty.
Step 6: Incorporate Fresh Cranberries
Gently mix in the fresh cranberries and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until they burst, releasing their tangy juice that beautifully balances the savory turkey and veggies.
Step 7: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to complement the tart cranberries and savory meat perfectly. Taste as you go—it’s all about harmony.
Step 8: Prepare Water for Poaching Eggs
In a separate saucepan, bring water to a gentle simmer. Keeping the water calm is key to poaching eggs that are tender and delicate.
Step 9: Poach the Eggs
Carefully poach each egg for 3 to 4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain luxuriously runny, ready to add richness to your hash.
Step 10: Drain the Poached Eggs
Using a slotted spoon, remove the eggs and place them on paper towels to drain any excess water, so they sit beautifully atop your dish without making it soggy.
Step 11: Assemble and Serve
Plate the warm turkey cranberry hash, top each serving with a poached egg, and scatter chopped parsley for a fresh herbal finish. Serve immediately for the best experience!
How to Serve Easy Turkey Cranberry Hash with Poached Egg Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish, adding a burst of green and a light herbal note that contrasts perfectly with the savory and tart elements. Feel free to sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky kick.
Side Dishes
This hash pairs wonderfully with crusty toast to help soak up the runny yolk or a simple mixed leaf salad for freshness. If you want something heartier, roasted sweet potatoes complement the cranberry’s tartness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant brunch, serve the hash in individual cast iron skillets. Or, try layering it in a shallow bowl, topped with the egg and a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add an exciting twist to this classic comfort dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover turkey cranberry hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the poached eggs separate and add them fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the hash mixture without the eggs. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the hash over medium-low heat on the stove to retain moisture and flavor. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to dry out the turkey. Poach fresh eggs to top after reheating for that perfect finish.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and will provide a milder flavor. Just adjust seasoning as needed since chicken can be less flavorful than turkey.
What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use frozen ones—just add them a bit earlier to allow time to thaw and cook down. Dried cranberries are an alternative but add them towards the end and reduce other sugars to balance.
How do I know when the poached eggs are done?
The whites should be completely set and opaque while the yolks remain soft and runny inside. Poaching for 3 to 4 minutes usually achieves this perfect texture.
Can I make this vegan or vegetarian?
To keep it vegetarian or vegan, substitute ground turkey with plant-based meat crumbles or crumbled tofu. Replace poached eggs with avocado slices or a tofu scramble for richness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the turkey cranberry hash is excellent for meal prep. Prepare and portion it in advance, then simply poach eggs fresh when ready to eat to enjoy maximum flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Turkey Cranberry Hash with Poached Egg Recipe is truly a delight to make and enjoy. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—full of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that are sure to brighten your day. I encourage you to try it soon and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your kitchen!
