This Tex-Mex Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet is a vibrant, one-pan wonder that brings bold flavors and wholesome nutrition to your table in just 33 minutes. Juicy ground turkey mingles with fluffy rice, black beans, and zesty spices, creating a hearty dish that’s as satisfying as it is quick. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet notes, while the colorful mix of veggies adds a fresh crunch.
Packed with protein and fiber, this skillet meal is a guilt-free indulgence that keeps you full and energized. The melty cheese and aromatic spices create a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner, this recipe is your ticket to a flavorful, fuss-free feast.
What You’ll Need for Tex-Mex Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet
- 1 ½ cups uncooked instant brown rice (or substitute with white rice for a quicker cook time)
- 1 pound lean ground turkey (ground chicken or beef works too)
- 1 onion, chopped (yellow or white onion recommended)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder for convenience)
- 15 ounces pinto beans, undrained (black beans are a great alternative)
- 1 cup beef broth (chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
- 10 ½ ounces diced tomatoes and green chiles (like Rotel, mild or hot depending on preference)
- 15 ounces corn, drained (fresh or frozen corn works too)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste for more or less spice)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cumin (adds a warm, earthy flavor)
- Ground pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded Colby Jack cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack are great substitutes)
How to Make Tex-Mex Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet
- Cook the rice: Prepare the instant brown rice according to the package instructions. Set aside once cooked.
- Cook the turkey mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, undrained pinto beans, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained corn, chili powder, salt, cumin, and ground pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer: Let the mixture cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. The mixture should thicken slightly.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve: Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, salsa, or sour cream. Enjoy warm!
Toppings and Sauces to Elevate Your Skillet
Take your Tex-Mex Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet to the next level with fresh and flavorful toppings. Try adding diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick. For a creamy touch, dollop on some sour cream or drizzle with chipotle sauce. If you love heat, a spoonful of salsa or pickled jalapeños will do the trick!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Skillet
This hearty skillet is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping. For a lighter side, serve with a crisp green salad or a refreshing cucumber-tomato salad. If you’re hosting, a pitcher of margaritas or iced tea will complete the Tex-Mex vibe!
Storing and Reheating for Delicious Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Pro tip: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months for a quick future meal!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Use pre-cooked rice or a microwaveable rice pouch to cut down on prep. You can also chop the onion and garlic ahead of time and store them in the fridge. If you’re really in a rush, swap the ground turkey for pre-cooked shredded chicken or beef. These shortcuts will save you time without sacrificing flavor!
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Customize this skillet to suit your taste! Swap the ground turkey for ground beef or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist. Use black beans instead of pinto beans, or add a handful of chopped bell peppers for extra crunch. For a spicier kick, double the chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper. The possibilities are endless!
Tex-Mex Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked instant brown rice
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove
- 15 ounce pinto beans, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 8 ounce tomato sauce
- 10 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes and green chiles
- 15 ounces corn, drained
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- ground pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add in the ground turkey, onion, and garlic and cook until the turkey is no longer pink.
- Stir in the rice, beans, beef broth, tomato sauce, tomatoes, corn, chili powder, salt, cumin, and ground pepper. Let cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes to let the flavors really come together.
- Top with shredded cheese and let cook for 2-3 more minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings – tomatoes, shredded lettuce, salsa, sour cream, etc.