Okay, so you need something quick and easy for dinner, right? I GET IT. Weeknights are crazy! That’s why I’m SO excited to share this Ground Turkey and Rice Bake recipe. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver.
I remember when my kids were little… dinner time was always a battle. But this? This was a winner. Even my pickiest eater would gobble it up! And honestly, it saved my sanity more than once. It’s just one of those recipes that’s simple, satisfying, and everyone loves it. Plus, cleanup is a breeze – which is always a bonus in my book!
The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Ground turkey, rice, a can of soup… boom! Dinner is practically done. This Ground Turkey and Rice Bake is seriously delicious comfort food at its finest. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Why You'll Love This Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Seriously, what’s not to love? This Ground Turkey and Rice Bake is a total winner. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:
- Quick to Prepare: I’m talking minimal chopping, mixing, and baking. Dinner on the table in under an hour? YES, PLEASE!
- Easy Cleanup: One dish wonder! Less time scrubbing, more time relaxing.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: Even picky eaters will devour this. It’s comfort food at its finest.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Ground turkey and rice are super affordable. This meal won’t break the bank!
- Customizable with Vegetables: Sneak in some extra veggies for a healthy boost. My kids never even notice!
Ingredients for Your Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Okay, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Ground Turkey and Rice Bake. Don’t worry, it’s mostly stuff you probably already have. My favorite part is how simple it is!
- 1 pound ground turkey: I usually grab the lean stuff – keeps things a little healthier, ya know?
- 1 cup cooked rice: White rice is classic, but brown rice works great too! Just make sure it’s cooked according to the package directions.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Regular or low-fat, your call! Whatever you have on hand is perfect.
- 1/2 cup milk: I usually use 2%, but honestly, any kind of milk will do – even almond milk if that’s your thing!
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Yellow or white onion, finely chopped. I usually just grab whatever’s in the fridge!
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best, if you’ve got it!
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar, whatever you like! Pre-shredded is easiest, but you can totally shred it from a block if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Rice Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This Ground Turkey and Rice Bake is so simple, you’ll be amazed. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Promise!
Preparing the Ground Turkey Mixture for the Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
First things first, grab a big ol’ bowl. In goes your ground turkey, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, and pepper. Now, get your hands in there (or use a spoon, whatever floats your boat!) and mix it all up really well. Make sure everything’s nicely combined. This is where the magic starts, folks!
Baking the Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Okay, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (that’s 175 degrees C for you international folks!). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Now, pour that yummy ground turkey mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly, and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. Don’t peek! (Okay, maybe a little peek is fine…).
Adding Cheese and Finishing the Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
After 25 minutes, take the baking dish out of the oven (careful, it’s hot!). Sprinkle that glorious cheddar cheese all over the top. Then, back into the oven it goes for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Mmmmmm! Once it’s done, let it stand for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Tips for the Best Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Want to take your Ground Turkey and Rice Bake from good to AMAZING? I’ve got you covered! Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years to make it absolutely perfect. You’ll thank me later!
- Don’t Overbake It!: Nobody likes a dry casserole! Keep an eye on it, and pull it out as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Just to be safe, poke a meat thermometer into the center of the bake. You want to make sure that turkey is cooked all the way through to 165°F (74°C). Safety first, friends!
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t be afraid to add a little extra salt, pepper, or even some garlic powder to the mixture. Taste as you go and make it your own!
Ground Turkey and Rice Bake Variations
Okay, so you’ve made the basic Ground Turkey and Rice Bake… now let’s get a little crazy! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s SO easy to customize. Seriously, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few of my favorite ways to mix things up:
- Different Cheeses: Cheddar is classic, but why not try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a little pepper jack for a kick? Go wild!
- Add Vegetables: Peas, carrots, broccoli, green beans… whatever your family likes! Just toss ’em in with the turkey mixture. Easy peasy!
- Use Different Soups: Cream of celery, cream of chicken, even cream of broccoli soup would be delicious in this. Experiment and find your favorite combo!
Serving Suggestions for Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Okay, your Ground Turkey and Rice Bake is ready… but what do you serve with it? Don’t stress! A simple side dish is all you need. I usually go for a big ol’ side salad – keeps things light and fresh! Steamed veggies are always a winner too. Oh, and garlic bread? YES, PLEASE! That’s my family’s favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Got questions about this Ground Turkey and Rice Bake? I’ve got answers! Here are a few of the most common things folks ask me about this recipe. Don’t worry, there are no dumb questions here!
Can I use different types of rice in this Ground Turkey and Rice Bake?
Absolutely! White rice is the classic choice, but brown rice works great too. Just keep in mind that brown rice will give it a slightly nuttier flavor and a chewier texture. Quinoa would also work, but it will change the texture quite a bit. Just make sure whatever you use is cooked before you mix it in!
Is Ground Turkey and Rice Bake healthy?
Well, it *can* be! It depends on what you put in it. Using lean ground turkey and low-fat cream of mushroom soup definitely helps. Loading it up with veggies is another great way to boost the health factor. And portion control is key, of course! Everything in moderation, right?
Can I freeze Ground Turkey and Rice Bake?
Yep! This Ground Turkey and Rice Bake freezes really well. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake it at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until it’s heated through. You might need to add a little extra milk or broth if it seems dry. Easy peasy!
Nutrition Information for Ground Turkey and Rice Bake
Okay, so everyone always wants to know about the nutrition, right? I get it! But listen, just a heads-up: the nutrition info for this Ground Turkey and Rice Bake is just an estimate. It really depends on the exact ingredients you use – like, what brand of soup, how lean your turkey is, all that jazz. So, take this with a grain of salt, okay?
Enjoyed This Ground Turkey and Rice Bake?
Yay! I hope you loved this Ground Turkey and Rice Bake as much as my family does! If you did, please leave a comment and rate the recipe below – it helps other folks find it! And don’t forget to share it on social media! Thanks so much for trying it!
Print
Disgustingly Easy Ground Turkey and Rice Bake in 30
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and satisfying ground turkey and rice bake.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion, and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use any type of cooked rice.
- For a healthier option, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
- Add vegetables, such as peas or carrots, to the mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
