This skillet meal delivers classic Italian-inspired flavors in an easy, streamlined format. The ground turkey keeps it lighter than traditional beef dishes, while marinara sauce adds bold tomato richness. The melted cheese on top brings everything together with creamy, gooey goodness.
It’s also incredibly convenient. Everything cooks in one pan, making it ideal for weeknight dinners and meal prep. You can customize it with vegetables, adjust the seasoning to your liking, and enjoy leftovers that reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound ground turkey 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice 2 cups chicken broth 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, marinara sauce, basil, and oregano. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the lid and stir the mixture gently. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Cover again and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes, or until bubbly and melted.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4–6 servings.
Preparation time: 10–15 minutes Cooking time: 25–30 minutes Total time: About 40–45 minutes
Variations
Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables. Stir them in with the turkey or during the simmering stage.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce. You can also swap mozzarella for provolone or a shredded Italian cheese blend.
To make it lower in carbs, substitute cauliflower rice for white rice, adjusting the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice can also be used but will require a longer cooking time and additional broth.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the rice has absorbed too much liquid.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid.
Do I need to cook the rice before adding it?
No, the rice cooks directly in the skillet with the broth and marinara sauce.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. Taste a small portion to check for doneness.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.
What type of marinara sauce is best?
Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce with good tomato flavor.
Can I add beans?
Yes, white beans or kidney beans can be stirred in for added protein and texture.
How can I make it creamier?
Stir in a small spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream before adding the shredded cheese.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.
What sides go well with this skillet?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this hearty dish.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Turkey Rice Skillet with Marinara Sauce is a comforting, flavorful, and practical meal that comes together in one pan. With tender rice, savory turkey, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying recipe you’ll turn to again and again for easy family dinners.
This Cheesy Ground Turkey Rice Skillet with Marinara Sauce is a hearty one-pan dinner made with lean ground turkey, tender rice, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Cheesy Ground Turkey Rice Skillet with Marinara Sauce delivers comforting Italian-inspired flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground turkey
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook Turkey: Add ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Add Rice & Liquids: Add uncooked rice, chicken broth, marinara sauce, basil, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Add Cheese: Remove lid and stir gently. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover again and let sit 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.For spice, use hot marinara or add red pepper flakes.Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time and more broth.Cauliflower rice works for a lower-carb option (reduce liquid accordingly).Add a splash of broth when reheating if the rice thickens too much.
