Turkey Taco Bowl

Featured in: Daily Meal Ideas

This satisfying bowl brings together lean ground turkey seasoned with aromatic spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Served over fluffy rice and piled high with crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro, it's a complete meal that's ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and delicious.

Updated on Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:00:37 GMT
Seasoned ground turkey, fluffy rice, and colorful toppings make this Turkey Taco Bowl a wholesome, vibrant dinner. Pin It
Seasoned ground turkey, fluffy rice, and colorful toppings make this Turkey Taco Bowl a wholesome, vibrant dinner. | buenoabrid.com

This Turkey Taco Bowl is a vibrant and wholesome meal featuring seasoned ground turkey served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines lean protein with fresh, colorful toppings to create a customizable dish that is ready in just 35 minutes.

Seasoned ground turkey, fluffy rice, and colorful toppings make this Turkey Taco Bowl a wholesome, vibrant dinner. Pin It
Seasoned ground turkey, fluffy rice, and colorful toppings make this Turkey Taco Bowl a wholesome, vibrant dinner. | buenoabrid.com

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Whether you are meal prepping for the week or looking for a healthy family dinner, these bowls offer a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. The combination of warm, spiced turkey and crisp vegetables like red bell pepper and lettuce makes every bite delicious.

Ingredients

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  • Protein: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey
  • Vegetables: 1 small onion (finely diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1 avocado (diced), 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • Rice: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • Taco Seasoning: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Toppings: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup salsa, 1 lime (cut into wedges)

Instructions

Step 1
Prepare the rice according to package instructions, or use precooked rice to save time.
Step 2
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and nearly cooked through (about 5–6 minutes).
Step 3
Add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 4
Sprinkle the taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne) over the turkey and vegetables. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes. If desired, add 2–3 tbsp water to help the seasoning coat the meat evenly.
Step 5
To assemble, divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each with the turkey mixture.
Step 6
Arrange lettuce, cherry tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro over each bowl as desired.
Step 7
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, use a large skillet to brown the turkey evenly and a cooking spatula to break it into small crumbles. Utilizing a rice cooker or prepared rice can help streamline the cooking process, allowing you to focus on prepping the fresh vegetable toppings.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

For a low-carb alternative, substitute the white or brown rice with cauliflower rice. You can also increase the fiber by adding black beans or corn. For a dairy-free meal, simply omit the cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.

Serviervorschläge

Top each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream and a spoonful of salsa. For extra heat, add hot sauce or pickled jalapeños. Always serve with fresh lime wedges on the side to provide a bright, citrusy finish to the dish.

Turkey Taco Bowl served with creamy avocado, sharp cheddar, and tangy salsa for a fresh Mexican-inspired meal. Pin It
Turkey Taco Bowl served with creamy avocado, sharp cheddar, and tangy salsa for a fresh Mexican-inspired meal. | buenoabrid.com

With 460 calories and 18g of fat per serving, this Turkey Taco Bowl is a satisfying and wholesome choice for anyone looking to enjoy fresh Mexican-inspired flavors at home. Enjoy this easy, nutrient-dense dinner tonight!

Recipe FAQs

How do I make this bowl lower in carbohydrates?

Replace regular rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version. Simply riced cauliflower can be cooked in the skillet for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Can I prepare the turkey mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. The seasoned turkey can be made up to 4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling your bowls.

What other proteins work well in this dish?

Ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the protein you choose.

How can I add more vegetables to this bowl?

Try adding corn, black beans, diced zucchini, or shredded carrots. Sauté them with the onions and peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Is this meal freezer-friendly?

The seasoned turkey mixture freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Store fresh toppings separately and assemble with freshly cooked rice when ready to serve.

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Turkey Taco Bowl

Vibrant bowl with seasoned turkey, rice, and fresh toppings

Prep Time
15 minutes
Total Cook Time
20 minutes
Time Needed
35 minutes
Recipe by Janice Fowler

Dish Type Daily Meal Ideas

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mexican-American

Makes 4 Serving Size

Diet Preferences None specified

What You Need

Protein

01 1 pound lean ground turkey

Vegetables

01 1 small onion, finely diced
02 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 1 cup shredded lettuce
06 1 avocado, diced
07 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Rice

01 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

Taco Seasoning

01 1 tablespoon chili powder
02 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
05 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
07 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional

Toppings

01 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
02 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
03 1/4 cup salsa
04 1 lime, cut into wedges

How to Make

Step 01

Prepare the Rice Base: Cook rice according to package directions, or use precooked rice to expedite preparation.

Step 02

Brown the Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and nearly cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.

Step 03

Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.

Step 04

Season the Mixture: Sprinkle taco seasoning blend over the turkey and vegetables. Mix thoroughly and cook for 2 minutes. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons water if needed to ensure even seasoning distribution.

Step 05

Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice evenly among four serving bowls. Top each portion with the seasoned turkey mixture.

Step 06

Add Toppings and Garnish: Arrange shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cheddar cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro over each bowl according to preference.

Step 07

Serve and Finish: Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for added brightness and acidity.

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What You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board and chef's knife
  • Cooking spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Rice cooker or saucepan for rice preparation
  • Individual serving bowls

Allergy Info

Please review every ingredient for allergens and talk with a healthcare provider if you’re uncertain.
  • Contains dairy products including cheddar cheese and sour cream
  • May contain gluten if using non-gluten-free taco seasoning or processed toppings—verify product labels

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

These values are for your information only and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 460
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Proteins: 31 g

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