I love making this healthy turkey taco bowl when I need something quick and easy. It’s one of those meals that comes together fast but still feels like a real dinner. I use seasoned ground turkey, rice, and whatever toppings I have on hand—like tomatoes, guacamole, corn, and cheese.
It’s so simple, and I don’t need to buy anything fancy to make it. Most of the time, I already have everything in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy nights or even meal-prepping for lunch the next day.
Why I Love This
- It’s fast, and I can have it ready in about 20 minutes.
- It’s light but filling, which is exactly what I want in a bowl.
- I can switch it up with different toppings depending on what I’m in the mood for.
How I Started Making This
The first time I made this, I had no plan. I just grabbed some ground turkey from the fridge and started cooking. I added rice and threw on whatever toppings I could find—some tomatoes, a little guacamole, and shredded cheese. It turned out so good that now it’s one of my go-to dinners.
Tip
A little lime juice on top makes everything taste extra fresh, so don’t forget it!
Equipment
- Medium saucepan: To cook the rice or cauliflower rice.
- Large skillet: For browning and seasoning the ground turkey.
- Small saucepan: To warm the black beans and corn.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping lettuce, cilantro, and avocado.
- Measuring spoons: For measuring spices.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To break up and stir the ground turkey as it cooks.
- Serving bowls: For assembling and serving the taco bowls.
What You’ll Need (and Substitutions)
Base:
- Rice: I like using white or brown rice, but you can substitute cauliflower rice or even quinoa for a lighter option.
Protein:
- Ground turkey: Lean and packed with protein. Ground chicken or beef also works if you prefer.
- Avocado Oil: To cook the ground turkey.
Veggies and Toppings:
- Lettuce: Romaine or shredded iceberg for a fresh crunch.
- Corn: Sweet frozen corn, grilled fresh corn, or even canned corn works great here.
- Avocado or guacamole: Adds creaminess and balance.
- Salsa: Your favorite store-bought or homemade salsa works perfectly.
- Optional: Black beans: If you like a heartier bowl, add rinsed and drained black beans.
- Light Greek yogurt: A lighter alternative to sour cream that adds creaminess and tang.
Seasonings:
- Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to create the perfect taco flavor.
Extras:
- Lime wedges: Brighten the dish with a squeeze of lime.
- Cilantro: For a fresh and zesty finish.
Instructions
Cook the Rice: Prepare the rice if you love try this cilantro lime rice.
Season and Cook the Turkey: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5-6 minutes, or until browned. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water, reduce the heat to low, and let the turkey simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop the flavors.
Warm the Corn (and Beans, if using): In a small saucepan, warm the corn over low heat. If you’re adding black beans, warm them with the corn and season lightly with salt.
Assemble the Bowl: Start with a layer of rice and lettuce. Add the seasoned turkey, corn, and your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, and a dollop of light Greek yogurt.
Finish with Lime and Cilantro: Garnish the bowl with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy!
Tips
Double It: I’ll often make extra turkey so I have leftovers for lunch or another quick dinner.
Change the Base: Sometimes I use lettuce or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice—it’s just as good.
Try New Toppings: Crushed tortilla chips, roasted peppers, or pickled onions are fun ways to mix it up.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
If you liked this healthy turkey taco bowl, here are a few more recipes from the blog to try:
- Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: Grilled chicken, roasted corn, and a creamy, tangy sauce make this bowl a must-try.
- Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl: Smoky chicken with sautéed peppers and onions served over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Taco Bell Quesadilla: Inspired by the cheesy, saucy quesadilla, this dish is packed with flavor and super easy to make.
- Southwest Chicken Wrap: Loaded with seasoned beef, black beans, and fresh toppings, it’s a quick and filling dinner everyone will love.
FAQs
Can I use something besides ground turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken or beef works great, or you can even use black beans for a vegetarian version.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
No problem! I mix chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, and it tastes just as good.
Let Me Know What You Think
If you make this Healthy Turkey Taco Bowl, let me know! Leave a comment or tag me on Instagram so I can see how yours turned out. I always love hearing from you!
Healthy Turkey Taco Bowl
A healthy turkey taco bowl is a quick and easy dinner made with seasoned ground turkey, rice, and your favorite toppings like tomatoes, guacamole, and cheese. Perfect for busy nights or meal-prep lunches!
Base:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice or cauliflower rice
Turkey:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 2 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup corn fresh, grilled, or frozen and thawed
- 1 avocado sliced (or guacamole)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Fresh cilantro chopped
- Lime wedges
Optional:
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- ⅓ cup light Greek yogurt
-
Cook the rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. Or try this cilantro lime rice.
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5-6 minutes, or until browned. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water, reduce the heat to low, and let the turkey simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop the flavors.
-
In a small saucepan, warm the corn over low heat. If using black beans, warm them together with the corn and season with a pinch of salt.
-
To assemble the bowls, start with a layer of rice and lettuce. Add the seasoned turkey, corn, and your choice of toppings like avocado, salsa, Greek yogurt, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
A Few Tips
- Double It: I’ll often make extra turkey so I have leftovers for lunch or another quick dinner.
- Change the Base: Sometimes I use lettuce or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice—it’s just as good.
- Try New Toppings: Crushed tortilla chips, roasted peppers, or pickled onions are fun ways to mix it up.