If you’re hunting for a vibrant, flavor-packed dinner that’s both satisfying and weeknight-easy, the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to. With seasoned ground turkey, colorful bell peppers, tender rice, black beans, and bursts of corn all snuggled together in one skillet, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience. Melted cheddar, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime send every bite over the top. It’s hearty, wholesome, and comes together with minimal fuss—perfect for busy nights or casual weekend gatherings alike!

Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how this Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe calls for just a handful of pantry and fridge staples, each bringing something special to the table. Every ingredient plays a role—whether it’s depth of flavor, creamy goodness, or a splash of color—making this dish so much more than the sum of its parts.

Olive oil: A quick sauté in olive oil helps build layers of savory flavor right from the start.
Ground turkey: Lean but hearty, ground turkey soaks up all the bold Southwest spices, making every bite protein-packed and delicious.
Yellow onion: Diced onion adds subtle sweetness and a bit of texture after softening in the skillet.
Red bell pepper: Its bright color and mild, sweet taste brighten and balance the whole dish.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses every forkful with irresistible aromatic depth.
Ground cumin: Essential for that earthy, smoky Southwest profile we crave.
Chili powder: Contributes warmth and mild heat without taking over the flavor.
Smoked paprika: A dash adds a subtle smokiness that brings everything together.
Salt and black pepper: Just the right amount of seasoning to let the other ingredients shine.
Uncooked long grain white rice: The backbone that makes this meal extra comforting and substantial.
Black beans: Canned beans provide hearty texture and plant-based protein while keeping prep super simple.
Diced tomatoes with green chiles: These add tang, juiciness, and a kick of gentle heat—no need for extra chopping!
Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor as it cooks, instead of plain water.
Frozen corn: Adds bursts of sweetness and a beautiful golden color at the finish.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty cheese brings that comforting, creamy finish everyone loves.
Chopped cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herby brightness that’s totally worth it if you have some!
Lime juice: A final squeeze lifts all the flavors and ties the meal together with zesty freshness.

How to Make Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey

Start by heating the olive oil in a large, sturdy skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Let it brown for 5 to 7 minutes; this step allows all those savory juices to develop and ensures the turkey doesn’t end up bland or dry. You’re looking for small crumbles and a hint of golden color before moving on.

Step 2: Sauté Onion, Pepper, and Garlic

Add the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic right into the pan. Give everything a good stir and let these vegetables cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until they’re softened and fragrant. The onion and pepper infuse the turkey with subtle sweetness, while the garlic adds that unmistakable, mouthwatering aroma.

Step 3: Add Spices and Seasonings

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to make sure the spices coat the turkey and veggies evenly. This simple step immediately transforms the skillet, filling your kitchen with those classic Southwest scents.

Step 4: Stir in Rice and Pantry Staples

Now, add the uncooked long grain white rice, black beans (drained and rinsed), undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles, and the low-sodium chicken broth. Stir thoroughly so everything is nicely mixed, with the rice submerged in all those flavorful juices. This mixture is going to simmer into something truly delicious.

Step 5: Simmer Until Rice Is Tender

Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover your skillet, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will absorb the broth and all those robust flavors. Avoid lifting the lid too often—patience rewards you with perfectly tender rice!

Step 6: Add Corn and Melt the Cheese

When the rice is just about done and the liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in the frozen corn. Let it cook uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the corn is hot. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet again, and let it sit off the heat for a couple of minutes while the cheese gets irresistibly melty.

Step 7: Garnish and Finish

Finish your homemade Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe with plenty of chopped cilantro (if you have it) and a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving. These final touches boost the whole dish with a pop of color and bright, fresh flavor that balances all the warm spices.

How to Serve Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

This skillet is already a feast for the eyes, but a few thoughtful garnishes can take it to the next level. Sprinkle extra cilantro, a handful of sliced green onions, or even a few slices of fresh jalapeño for a pop of green and a mild kick. Try a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for cool creaminess, or some diced avocado for added richness.

Side Dishes

The Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas, a crisp green salad tossed with citrus vinaigrette, or simply a side of sautéed greens. If you’re feeding a crowd, add some chips and salsa to round things out!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little fancy, try serving the skillet straight from the pan at the table family-style. Or, scoop it into individual bowls and top with all your favorite toppings—a make-your-own Southwest bowl night! For a fun twist, spoon leftovers into halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly for savory stuffed peppers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Once the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe cools, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making the next day’s lunch even more delightful.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Let the finished skillet cool completely, then spoon portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to three months. Just be aware that rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so the texture will be a bit softer after thawing—but still oh-so-tasty.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it needs a little extra moisture. Stir occasionally, and top with fresh garnishes to bring back that just-cooked zing.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Both ground chicken and beef work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that ground beef will add a bit more richness, and you may want to drain off any excess fat after browning.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Simply leave out the shredded cheddar or swap in your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. All the bold Southwest flavors will still come through beautifully.

What’s the best way to add more spice?

For extra heat, toss in a chopped jalapeño with the onions and peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding your spices. Hot sauce at the table also lets everyone customize their own spice level.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can, but brown rice takes longer to cook and requires a bit more liquid. Plan to add 10-15 extra minutes of simmering and an extra half cup of broth; check for doneness as you go.

Does the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe work for meal prep?

Definitely! This is an ideal meal prep option. Pack individual servings into containers for grab-and-go lunches; it reheats wonderfully, and the flavors only get better with time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that brings big Southwest flavor without a lot of work, the Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe is truly one to bookmark. It’s easy, adaptable, and packed with comforting, satisfying ingredients. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you!

Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Southwest Rice and Ground Turkey Skillet recipe is a flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender ground turkey with aromatic spices, hearty black beans, and fluffy rice, all cooked together in a savory broth. Finished with cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, this dish is a satisfying and wholesome dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Turkey Mixture:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Rice and Beans:

1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen corn

Finishing Touches:

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
Juice of ½ lime

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Instructions

Prepare Ground Turkey Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground turkey until browned. Add onion, red bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
Season and Add Rice: Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add rice, black beans, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until rice is tender.
Finish Dish: Add corn, cook briefly. Sprinkle with cheese, cover, and let melt. Garnish with cilantro and lime juice before serving.