Cheesy Ground Turkey Rice Skillet with Marinara Sauce
This Cheesy Ground Turkey Rice Skillet with Marinara Sauce is a hearty one-pan dinner made with savory ground turkey, tender rice, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners, this easy skillet recipe is comforting, flavorful, and packed with protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dinner / Main Course
- Method: Skillet, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- 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 minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and cooked rice until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
- Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Use freshly cooked or leftover rice for convenience.Brown rice or cauliflower rice work well as substitutes.Add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.Spicy marinara sauce adds extra heat and flavor.Provolone or cheddar cheese can be used instead of mozzarella.Add a splash of broth or sauce when reheating to keep the rice moist.
