Description
This Cheesy Turkey Rice recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Ground turkey is browned with aromatic onions and garlic, combined with tender rice simmered in savory chicken broth, and topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese for a rich finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, it offers a satisfying blend of protein, carbohydrates, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Base
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Oil
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp olive oil
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves to prepare them for sautéing.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them until they become translucent, about 3 minutes, to release their flavors.
- Brown the Turkey: Add the lean ground turkey along with salt, black pepper, and paprika to the skillet. Cook and break the turkey apart until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add and Mix Rice: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice thoroughly to combine it with the turkey and aromatics before adding liquid.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, cheesy layer.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute cheddar with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Use brown rice instead of white for a whole grain option; increase simmer time accordingly, usually to about 40-45 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; adding extra Italian herbs enhances the aromatic character.
- Ensure the skillet you use has a tight-fitting lid to properly steam the rice.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
