Ground Turkey Taco Rice Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s a one-pan wonder? Ground Turkey Taco Rice Skillet is your go-to solution! This dish brings together the zesty flavors of tacos, the comforting appeal of rice, and the lean protein of ground turkey into one delightful skillet meal.

Perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone craving a Tex-Mex-inspired dish, this recipe is simple to whip up, requires minimal cleanup, and offers endless customization options. Whether you like it extra spicy or loaded with fresh toppings, this recipe is versatile enough to meet all your cravings.

Let’s get into the details and create a dish that will quickly become a household favorite.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Set aside.
2. Measure the Ingredients: Measure out the rice, broth, and spices to keep everything organized.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove the turkey from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet.
2. Stir in the uncooked rice, taco seasoning, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and broth.

Step 5: Simmer the Skillet

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

1. Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the skillet.
2. Cover and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, delicious layer.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
2. Serve the taco rice skillet hot with your favorite toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Convenience

Who doesn’t love a meal that minimizes cleanup? Everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time and effort.

2. Healthy and Hearty

Ground turkey is a lean protein option, while the vegetables add a dose of essential nutrients.

3. Bursting with Flavor

The taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and tomatoes with green chilies create a symphony of bold, savory flavors.

Tips for Perfect Ground Turkey Taco Rice Skillet

1. Choose the Right Rice

• Long-grain rice works best for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
• For a healthier twist, use brown rice, but increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.

2. Use Homemade Taco Seasoning

• A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano works wonders if you prefer to make your own.

3. Spice it Up

• Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you love extra heat.

4. Make it Cheesy

• Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco for a creamy and melty topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole for a Tex-Mex feast.
• Pair with a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Add a dollop of refried beans or black beans for extra protein.

Flavor Variations

1. Vegetarian Option

• Swap ground turkey with black beans or crumbled tofu for a meatless version.

2. Low-Carb Twist

• Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice and reduce the broth to prevent excess liquid.

3. Add More Veggies

• Zucchini, corn, or spinach make excellent additions to the skillet.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is ideal for busy nights.
2. Customizable: Adjust the spice level, toppings, or protein to suit your preferences.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy, flavorful combination.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Ensure that your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free.

2. What other proteins can I use?
Ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles all work well in this recipe.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the skillet in advance and reheat before serving. Add fresh toppings just before eating.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by reducing the chili content or omitting cayenne pepper.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger skillet and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure even cooking.

With its bold flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility, this Ground Turkey Taco Rice Skillet Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy every bite of this Tex-Mex delight!

Yield: 4

Ground Turkey Taco Rice Skillet Recipe

Print

Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s a one-pan wonder? Ground Turkey Taco Rice Skillet is your go-to solution! This dish brings together the zesty flavors of tacos, the comforting appeal of rice, and the lean protein of ground turkey into one delightful skillet meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Skillet:
• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning or homemade taco spice mix
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• For Garnish:
• Chopped cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Sour cream
• Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
   
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
   
3. Season and Simmer:
   Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the turkey mixture is evenly coated. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans (if using), and corn. Stir to combine.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.
   
4. Add the Rice and Cheese:
   Stir in the cooked rice, mixing until fully combined. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, cover, and let cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve hot.

Notes

• Make it Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Rice Alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.