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 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup corn (canned or fresh); 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Quick Meals Ideas

I love putting together a Ground Turkey Taco Bowl on busy weeknights; it's not only quick but incredibly satisfying too! This recipe is perfect for assembling a hearty meal packed with flavor and nutrition in under 30 minutes. By using ground turkey instead of beef, I get a leaner alternative, while the spices bring all the traditional taco flavors right into the bowl. Whether served over rice or quinoa, my family can't get enough of this healthy twist on a classic dish.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:09:36.458Z

When I first decided to make a Ground Turkey Taco Bowl, I knew I wanted to keep it healthy but didn’t want to sacrifice flavor. I opted for cumin and chili powder to spice things up, and it turned out to be a fantastic decision! Pairing the turkey with fresh vegetables and a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end really elevates the dish.

One of the best tips I can offer is to customize it with your favorite toppings. Sometimes I add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition, which makes each bowl feel unique. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved by letting them choose their own toppings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients
Easily customizable to suit all taste preferences

Understanding Ground Turkey

Ground turkey is a fantastic lean protein option that adapts beautifully to the bold flavors in this taco bowl. Unlike beef, which can be rich and fatty, ground turkey provides a lighter texture while still holding onto moisture during cooking. To ensure the best results, look for a package labeled '93% lean' or similar, as it offers the ideal balance of flavor and fat. This small detail can make a noticeable difference in the overall texture and taste of your taco bowl.

When cooking ground turkey, it’s crucial not to overcook it. Brown it just until no longer pink—this generally takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a dry consistency, removing the delicious juiciness you want in this dish. If you see any excess liquid in the pan, don’t hesitate to drain it; this will help maintain the bowl's texture and avoid sogginess. Proper cooking online contributes to that sought-after taco flavor.

Toppings and Customizations

This recipe encourages creativity with toppings, which means you can adjust based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. For added crunch, consider incorporating shredded lettuce or chopped bell peppers. If you're a spice lover, jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Also, don’t shy away from experimenting with types of cheese, such as crumbled feta or shredded cheddar, to personalize the flavor experience in each bowl.

For a dairy-free option, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or simply adjust with a sprinkle of lime juice to add some tang without the creaminess. If you have different dietary needs, try using riced cauliflower instead of rice or quinoa for a low-carb alternative, giving you not just a healthier option, but also an interesting twist to the traditional taco bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a satisfying Ground Turkey Taco Bowl.

For the Taco Bowl

1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup corn (canned or fresh)
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Feel free to get creative with toppings based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Turkey Taco Bowl.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

Assemble the Bowl

Divide the cooked rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top each bowl with the seasoned turkey, cherry tomatoes, corn, and avocado slices.

Add Toppings

Finish each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, and any additional toppings you desire. Enjoy your meal!

Your delicious Ground Turkey Taco Bowl is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce to your bowl. Leftovers are great for meal prep
just store the turkey mixture separately from the toppings to keep everything fresh.

Make-Ahead Tips

The Ground Turkey Taco Bowl can be a great meal prep option! You can cook the ground turkey in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors of the spices to deepen as it sits. When ready to serve, you can quickly reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which takes about 5 minutes.

Additionally, the components of the bowl can be stored separately to maintain freshness. Cooked rice or quinoa can be refrigerated for up to five days, while chopped vegetables like tomatoes and avocado can last 2-3 days. Just be sure to store the avocado in an airtight container with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. This way, assembling the bowl becomes a quick and enjoyable task each meal.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re expecting more guests or preparing for meal prep, scaling up the Ground Turkey Taco Bowl is quite easy. For larger gatherings, consider doubling the recipe for the turkey mixture and cooking it in a large skillet or pot. Just be mindful of not overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each batch reaches that desirable, golden-brown color.

On the flip side, if you're making a smaller serving, you can easily halve the ingredients. For instance, if you only need two servings, use half a pound of ground turkey and adjust the toppings accordingly. This flexibility means you can tailor this delicious dish to your family’s needs without any fuss, ensuring every meal is perfectly portioned.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the ground turkey for another meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even a meat alternative if you're looking for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this bowl vegan?

Absolutely! Use beans or lentils instead of meat, and replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

→ What can I use instead of rice or quinoa?

Feel free to use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, or even cauliflower rice for a light alternative.