Ground Turkey Taco Bowl

Name: Ground Turkey Taco Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 cup shredded cheese; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Inspirations

I love preparing a Ground Turkey Taco Bowl for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family enjoys. The combination of seasoned ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and perfect toppings creates a satisfying dish that's both nutritious and flavorful. It's become a weeknight favorite in our home, making it easy to tailor for everyone’s preferences while being simple enough to prepare in under 30 minutes. Plus, clean-up is a breeze, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:13:36.956Z

When I first made this Ground Turkey Taco Bowl, I was surprised at how quickly everything came together. The key is in the seasoning; using a mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder brings out the turkey's natural flavor without overwhelming it. I honestly believe this combination is what makes the bowl so satisfying.

Over the years, I've experimented with various toppings and sides. Adding fresh avocado and a squeeze of lime brings brightness to each bite. You can also make everything ahead of time and let each person build their bowl, making it a fun interactive meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Healthy and lean protein from ground turkey
Customizable toppings for everyone's taste
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting Your Ground Turkey

When cooking ground turkey, it's important to avoid overcooking, as it can dry out quickly. I recommend browning it until it's just golden, about 5-7 minutes over medium heat, then draining any excess fat to keep the dish lighter. For added moisture, consider incorporating a splash of chicken broth or a bit of salsa after draining, which will also enhance the flavor.

Using taco seasoning is a fantastic way to pack flavor into your turkey; however, if you're looking to control sodium or customize the flavor profile, consider making your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This way, you also ensure that the turkey is well-seasoned all the way through.

Customized Bowl Assembly

Assembling your taco bowl provides an exciting opportunity to encourage everyone to personalize their meal. For a creamier texture, I suggest mashing the avocado with a fork and seasoning it with a pinch of salt and lime juice before adding it to the bowls. This will help it stay fresh and flavorful during serving.

Regarding the beans and corn, feel free to swap in other favorites like pinto beans or chickpeas, and adjust based on what you have on hand. Fresh or canned corn can work equally well, as long as you thoroughly drain and rinse canned versions to remove excess sodium.

Ingredients

For the Taco Bowl

1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Season the Turkey

Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the turkey is well coated and heated through. Set aside.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by the seasoned turkey, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.

Top and Serve

Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option, and try topping with your favorite salsa for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're prepping for a busy week, you can cook the turkey and store it separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a couple of minutes before assembling your bowls. You can also prepare the rice or quinoa ahead of time, allowing for quick assembly during your mealtime rush.

For longer storage, consider freezing the seasoned turkey. It can be placed in freezer bags prior to cooking; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to use it. Cooked rice or quinoa can also be frozen; simply place them in individual portions and reheat by adding a bit of water to steam them back to fluffiness.

Serving Suggestions

These taco bowls are immensely versatile! Try serving them in crispy taco shells or lettuce wraps for a fun twist. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can provide a rich creaminess that compliments the spiciness of the turkey well. You can even turn this dish into a burrito by wrapping all the ingredients in a tortilla for a portable meal.

For extra color and flavor, consider adding grilled peppers or onions into the bowl; both can be sautéed during the turkey cooking stage. They not only add nutritional value but also bring a sweet caramelization that pairs beautifully with the spices of the taco mixture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or beef can work well as substitutes.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground turkey with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the turkey and chop the vegetables ahead of time.

→ What are some good toppings?

Consider adding sour cream, diced onions, or jalapeños for additional flavor.