Description
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
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 pound ground turkey
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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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
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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.
