Turkey Taco Bowls
Turkey Taco Bowls
Turkey Taco Bowls are a fun and easy way to enjoy a delicious dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This recipe combines seasoned ground turkey with fluffy rice, fresh toppings, and creamy queso fresco to create a flavor-packed meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekends, these bowls can be customized to fit your taste.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Turkey Taco Bowls is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are quick to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Second, this recipe is healthy, using lean ground turkey and fresh ingredients. Lastly, the bowls are versatile—everyone can add their favorites, like shredded lettuce or radishes, making it a hit for families or gatherings.
How to Make Turkey Taco Bowls
Making Turkey Taco Bowls is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 ounce envelope taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 packages precooked microwavable white rice
- 4 ounces queso fresco, crumbled
- Shredded lettuce (optional)
- Thinly sliced radishes (optional)
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook, stirring often, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Add the taco seasoning, water, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the meat is coated in the seasoning, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the chopped cilantro.
- Divide the heated rice and optional shredded lettuce evenly among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with the turkey mixture, crumbled queso fresco, remaining cilantro, and sliced radishes if using.
- Let the turkey and rice come to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet until warm throughout.
How to Serve Turkey Taco Bowls
Turkey Taco Bowls can be served as a complete meal in themselves. Simply place the rice and turkey mixture in a bowl and add your favorite toppings. Provide extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or salsa on the side for those who want a little more flavor.
How to Store Turkey Taco Bowls
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can store Turkey Taco Bowls for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warm throughout.
Tips to Make Turkey Taco Bowls
- Use leftover turkey or chicken if you want to save time.
- Feel free to swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra fiber and flavor.
Variations
You can easily customize Turkey Taco Bowls to suit your preferences. For example, you might want to use different proteins like chicken or beef. Vegetarian options can include black bean or lentil taco filling. You can also try different toppings like avocado, sour cream, or guacamole.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Yes, you can use ground beef in this recipe. Just be mindful that it will be higher in fat content.
Is it okay to freeze Turkey Taco Bowls?
Yes, you can freeze Turkey Taco Bowls. Just store in a freezer-safe container and reheat when ready to eat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey and rice a day ahead. Just heat them up and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to serve.

Turkey Taco Bowls
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
- 1 ounce envelope taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro Divided: 1/2 cup for the turkey mixture, remaining for topping.
- 2 packages precooked microwavable white rice
- 4 ounces queso fresco, crumbled
- Shredded lettuce (optional) For serving.
- Thinly sliced radishes (optional) For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook, stirring often, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Add the taco seasoning, water, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the meat is coated in the seasoning, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the chopped cilantro.
Assembly
- Divide the heated rice and optional shredded lettuce evenly among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with the turkey mixture, crumbled queso fresco, remaining cilantro, and sliced radishes if using.
