These Buttery Brown Sugar Turnips are tender, sweet, and coated in a delicious buttery glaze! Fresh turnips are simmered until soft, then tossed with butter, brown sugar, and simple seasonings. Such a yummy way to turn this underrated vegetable into a family-friendly side dish.
Buttery Brown Sugar Turnips (Give Turnips a Chance!)
Okay, can we give turnips a little love? I feel like they’re one of those vegetables that everyone walks right past at the grocery store, but they’re SO good when you cook them the right way! These Buttery Brown Sugar Turnips are tender, buttery, and covered in a sweet brown sugar glaze that makes me want to eat them straight out of the skillet.
If you’ve never had turnips before, think of them like little chopped-up baby potatoes. They’re soft and tender when cooked, with a slightly peppery flavor (don’t worry, they’re not spicy!). And when you add butter and brown sugar? Oh my goodness. That sweet, buttery sauce goes so well with the turnips, and you might just find yourself going back for seconds.
These make such a good side dish for a regular family dinner, but they’re also perfect if you’re looking to mix up your Thanksgiving dinner sides this year. Along with these turnips, try my Crockpot Baby Carrots and Creamy Milky Celery. Who says the Thanksgiving table has to be all mashed potatoes and green bean casserole?
Tips for Making the Best Brown Sugar Turnips
- Choose smaller turnips. They’re usually sweeter and more tender than large turnips, which can sometimes taste bitter.
- Cut them evenly. Aim for 1-inch cubes so all the turnips cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcook them. You want the turnips fork-tender but still holding their shape, not falling apart.
- Let the glaze thicken. Those last 5 minutes of cooking without the lid help the butter and brown sugar coat the turnips in a delicious glaze.
- Add a little extra sweetness. I like sprinkling a little brown sugar on top right before serving!
Let’s Make My Buttery Turnips!
First, peel the turnips. This doesn’t take very long!
Now cut them up into little cubes.
Cook the turnips in water until a fork can slide in.
Put them back into the skillet after you drain the water.
Add in butter, brown sugar and spices.
And give those turnips a little stir to get that buttery glaze all over them!
Smells great too! Serve and enjoy!
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Allow leftover turnips to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm turnips in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little butter until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quick side dish. Give them a good stir to coat them in that buttery brown sugar glaze again!
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Buttery Brown Sugar Turnips
PrintIngredients
- 2 pounds fresh turnips
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel turnips and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Add turnips to a large skillet or saucepan with enough water to cover them. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turnips are almost fork-tender.
- Remove the lid and drain any excess water. Keep the turnips in the skillet.
- Add butter, brown sugar, salt and pepper into the skillet. Stir gently until the butter melts and coats the turnips.
- Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turnips are tender and coated in a glossy, buttery glaze.
- Serve warm, spooning any extra glaze over the top. I like to sprinkle a little brown sugar on top too!
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