If you’re in the mood for a vibrant, nourishing meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, you need to try this Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that brings a burst of color and a fiesta of flavors to your table, all in one pan. Loaded with juicy ground turkey, hearty black beans, sweet corn, tender rice, and just the right kick of Southwestern spices, this skillet is my reliable weeknight hero. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for busy days, this recipe will quickly earn its spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this recipe is how the ingredients are simple yet each one plays an unmistakable role. They blend together to produce a dish that’s perfectly balanced in taste, texture, and color—no complicated shopping list needed!
- Ground turkey: Leans lighter than beef but still gives you juicy, protein-rich results every time.
- Olive oil: Helps everything cook evenly and adds a subtle richness to the skillet.
- Yellow onion: Offers a soft sweetness and depth as the base of the skillet’s flavor.
- Red bell pepper: Adds crunch and a pop of bright color that makes each bite more exciting.
- Garlic: Infuses a punchy, aromatic note that ties together all the Southwest flavors.
- Long-grain white rice: The perfect texture for soaking up all those incredible juices and spices.
- Black beans: Hearty, fiber-rich, and earthy—these transform the skillet into a more satisfying meal.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Bring just enough acidity and a hint of spice for true Southwestern flair.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor and helps everything simmer beautifully.
- Frozen corn: Adds bursts of sweetness, color, and a touch of crunch.
- Chili powder: The essential Southwestern spice for heat and depth.
- Ground cumin: Lends a warm, earthy undertone you can’t skip in a Southwest dish.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses smokiness that echoes flavors of the open grill.
- Salt: Enhances every other flavor and guarantees seasoning in every bite.
- Black pepper: Gives an understated sharpness that balances the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top to create a luscious, gooey finish.
- Chopped cilantro: Offers fresh, herbal brightness as a final touch.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze transforms the skillet with just the right amount of zesty tang.
How to Make Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating olive oil in your largest, most trustworthy skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and break it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. You want the turkey to turn golden brown, with no pink remaining—this usually takes about 5 or 6 minutes. Browning the meat creates those delicious bits that deepen the skillet’s savory flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Toss in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic right into the same skillet. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring now and then. The onion becomes tender and sweet, the bell pepper offers a gentle crunch, and the garlic releases its tempting aroma to set a tasty foundation for everything else.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Spices
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in your uncooked rice, drained and rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes (including the juices), chicken broth, frozen corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the rice and spices are evenly distributed and the colors start to bloom.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Crank up the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it all simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. The rice will soak up the fragrant liquid and the flavors will meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and there’s just a little juiciness at the bottom.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Uncover the skillet and scatter your shredded cheddar cheese in an even layer over the top. Pop the lid back on for 2 or 3 minutes—just enough to let the cheese get perfectly melty and irresistibly gooey. This cheesy blanket really brings the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe over the top.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle on fresh chopped cilantro. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges! A generous squeeze right before eating adds vibrancy and brings every spicy, savory, cheesy bite to life.
How to Serve Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice are more than just pretty—these little touches liven up the entire dish. For extra flair, top with sliced jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, or even a few diced avocado pieces for rich, creamy contrast.
Side Dishes
A wedge of warm cornbread or a stack of soft flour tortillas pair beautifully with the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe. If you want to keep it lighter, serve some crisp romaine lettuce or a tangy slaw on the side for extra crunch and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon the skillet mixture into halved bell peppers and bake until tender for a fun, hand-held dinner. Or, use it as a hearty filling for burritos or taco bowls—just add your favorite toppings and enjoy a customizable Southwest treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be cooled and transferred to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days—making lunch or another quick dinner during the week an absolute breeze.
Freezing
This Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe freezes wonderfully. Let the skillet cool completely, then scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It’ll keep for up to 3 months and makes an amazing make-ahead meal.
Reheating
To reheat, either use the microwave in short bursts (stirring in between), or place the skillet back on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water. Stir well and heat until piping hot; add a little more cheese or fresh cilantro if you want to revive the flavors even more!
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice is a great choice for this dish! Just keep in mind it will need extra simmer time—about 40 to 45 minutes total—and you might want to add more chicken broth to keep everything moist while it cooks.
Is this Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe spicy?
The level of heat is mild, but you can easily adjust it to your tastes. Add an extra pinch of chili powder, toss in some diced jalapeños, or top your portion with hot sauce if you love things kicked up a notch!
What can I substitute for ground turkey?
Ground chicken or lean ground beef are both excellent swaps. You can even try using cooked shredded chicken for a slightly different, but still delicious, result.
Is it gluten free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten free (especially the chicken broth), this skillet recipe is naturally gluten free and a fantastic option for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Of course! Skip the ground turkey and add more beans or some diced zucchini or mushrooms. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a hearty, satisfying vegetarian version of the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Give the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe a try soon—your taste buds will thank you, and your kitchen will be filled with irresistible Southwest aromas. This one’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser and your new go-to when you want something comforting, colorful, and full of flavor!
Print
Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet recipe is a flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender ground turkey with rice, beans, and vegetables, all cooked in a savory blend of spices. Topped with melted cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice, it’s a satisfying and easy dinner option.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook Ground Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5–6 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rice, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Melt Cheese and Serve: Uncover and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Notes
- For added heat, stir in diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Brown rice can be used but will require a longer cook time and additional broth.
- This dish makes great leftovers and reheats well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
