This Ground Turkey Taco Casserole is packed with Southwest flavors, lean protein, and veggies. Ready in 30 minutes with rice, beans, corn, and melted pepper jack — perfect for busy weeknights!
Optional for serving: Fresh minced parsley or cilantro, fresh diced tomatoes, sliced green onions
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Use a large, oven-safe skillet, or spray a 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and diced onions and cook, breaking apart with a spatula, until no longer pink.
Stir in garlic and seasonings and cook for a minute. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn and green chiles. Add rice and stir to combine.
Stir in a packed cup of pepper jack cheese. If using an oven-safe skillet, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Otherwise, transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish then sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
Bake uncovered at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh diced tomatoes, sliced green onions and minced parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ground turkey tip: Use 93/7 lean, not 99% fat-free
Rice: Need 2 cups cooked (about 2/3 cup dry)
Make it spicier: Add jalapeños and cayenne
Pan size: 2-quart casserole dish or 10-12" oven-safe skillet
Don't skip browning the turkey for best flavor
Drain beans and corn well to prevent watery casserole