Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet

Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet

If you have fond memories of your mother’s delicious casserole, this Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet will be a delightful trip down memory lane! Packed with tender rice, wholesome broccoli florets, and cheesy goodness, this dish is elevated with protein from ground turkey, creating a wholesome meal all in one pot — and it’s ready in under 40 minutes!

Jump to:

• Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet
• Table of Contents
• Why This One-Pot Meal is a Go-To!
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice with Ground Turkey
• FAQs
• What to Serve with Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice?
• More One-Skillet Recipes
• Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

What takes this recipe to the next level? The crispy panko Parmesan topping — it’s simply irresistible!

Table of Contents

• Why This One-Pot Meal is a Go-To!
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice with Ground Turkey
• FAQs
• What to Serve with Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice?
• More One-Skillet Recipes
• Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet

There’s something so comforting about food that reminds you of home. When I first prepared this ground turkey broccoli cheese rice skillet, those feelings came rushing back.

Growing up, my family often dined at a charming restaurant called Black Eyed Pea. It served classic Southern comfort food that could rival any home-cooked meal.

Their broccoli cheese rice casserole was a favorite of mine. (Let’s not forget about their delightful mini cornbread muffins!)

Yes, it was loaded with cheesy goodness and, surprisingly, tons of broccoli. Yet, the kicker was the deliciously crunchy topping that added the perfect contrast to the creamy textures.

That’s where the idea for the panko-Parmesan topping in this recipe originated. It’s an essential addition that truly elevates the dish!

Why This One-Pot Meal is a Go-To!

If the title hasn’t convinced you already, here are some compelling reasons why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:

• One pot wonder! This meal only requires one oven-safe pot since you’ll be broiling the dish at the end.

• Packed with protein. Unlike your average broccoli cheese rice dish, this version is a hearty meal with a pound of lean ground turkey included.

• Ready in 40 minutes. This includes both prep and cook time!

• Picky-eater approved. While there’s plenty of green in this dish, kids are more likely to eat their veggies when they’re mixed with cheesy rice!

• Flavorful beyond the ordinary. With the addition of a few extra ingredients, particularly a hint of mustard, this recipe offers a unique taste experience that sets it apart from others.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Check the recipe card below for specific amounts.

• Broccoli. Fresh broccoli, though frozen can be used; just defrost it first and add later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

• Turkey. An 85/15 blend of ground turkey strikes a balance of lightness and flavor, but other ground meats like chicken or beef can work as well.

• Green onions and sour cream. These may seem optional, but they enhance the dish’s flavor and aesthetic.

• Dried herbs. A combination of oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper delivers an incredible flavor.

• Liquid. Milk and broth combine for a creamy base that pairs beautifully with rice and broccoli. You can use all broth if desired, just make sure to replace some broth with water instead of using only milk.

• Cheese. Use both grated Parmesan and shredded cheddar for the filling and topping.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rice with Ground Turkey

For the complete instructions and printable recipe, refer to the recipe card below!

Step 1: Cook the ground turkey and onion.
In a large oven-safe Dutch oven or saucepan, heat oil. Add ground turkey and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart until it’s no longer pink. Push the turkey to the side, add another tablespoon of oil, then add the diced onion. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until translucent, then stir in minced garlic for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add rice, broccoli, and seasonings.
Pour in the milk and broth, scraping the pot’s bottom to incorporate any browned bits. Stir in the rinsed and drained rice, oregano, basil, paprika, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Place the broccoli on top of the rice, but do not stir. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 17 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Mix in the cheese and add the breadcrumb topping.
In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan. Once the rice has finished cooking, stir in shredded Cheddar cheese for 1 to 2 minutes until melted. Sprinkle the panko-Parmesan mixture on top.

Step 4: Broil and serve.
Set the pot under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the topping is golden brown. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Note: Make sure the broccoli chunks are no larger than 1 inch before starting!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you’ll need to modify the liquid amounts and cooking time accordingly. Also, add the broccoli later, as it will need extra time to cook.

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It can also be frozen for 3 to 4 months.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it?
Absolutely! This dish is great when made ahead of time and reheated, though the breadcrumb topping might lose some crispiness.

What to Serve with Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice?

While this dish is perfect on its own, consider these additions for extra flavor:

• Add a drizzle of sauce like Sriracha Mayo or Ranch Dressing.

• Pair it with salads like Chopped Kale Salad with Cranberries, Spinach Beet Salad, or Lemon Arugula Salad.

More One-Skillet Recipes

When you’re pressed for time, nothing beats a one-pot meal. Here are some more recipes to try:

• One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

• 30-Minute Beef Taco Skillet

• Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

• Creamy Chicken Pesto Gnocchi

• Pesto Risotto

• Thai Basil Chicken

• Egg Roll in a Bowl

• Korean Beef Bowls

• Reuben in a Bowl

Ground Turkey Broccoli Cheese Rice Skillet

This one-pot dish not only brings nostalgia but also offers a balanced meal that the whole family will surely love! Enjoy making this comforting recipe!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Blackened Chicken Rigatoni
• Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers
• Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken
• Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo

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