High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl

Name: High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup cooked brown rice; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Avocado, for serving (optional); Salsa or hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also packed with protein, and this High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl certainly fits the bill! When I first tried this recipe, I was searching for a healthy yet satisfying dish. The combination of ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and flavorful spices makes each bite a delight. Plus, it's so easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:21:35.663Z

As I experimented with different flavors and textures, I found that adding black beans and corn not only boosts the protein content but also adds a satisfying crunch to the bowl. Using brown rice as the base gives it a hearty fiber component that keeps me full for hours. I've tried different spices, but I find a simple mixture of cumin and paprika elevates the dish without overpowering it.

This bowl is perfect for meal prep, as the ingredients stay fresh throughout the week. I love packing it for lunch with a side of salsa or guacamole. It’s a hit among my friends and family, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and nutrients to fuel your day
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
Perfect for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners

      

Mastering the Turkey

Cooking ground turkey can be tricky, as it can dry out if overcooked. To ensure moist meat, aim for a golden-brown finish rather than letting it turn overly brown. Stir frequently while cooking to ensure even browning and to prevent sticking. You want to cook it just until it's no longer pink, roughly 8-10 minutes. Using a non-stick skillet can help reduce the risk of sticking and burning.

The spices in this recipe—cumin and smoked paprika—are crucial for adding depth and richness to the turkey. The cumin adds a warm earthiness, while smoked paprika contributes a subtle smokiness without being overpowering. If you prefer a spicier profile, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or swapping in chili powder for a more robust flavor.

Creating the Perfect Bowl

Assembling your burrito bowl allows for endless customization. Try adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, chopped jicama, or shredded lettuce for extra texture and flavor. You can also switch up the base; quinoa or cauliflower rice make fantastic alternatives to brown rice if you're looking for a different grain or a low-carb option.

I recommend letting everyone build their own bowls to cater to individual tastes, especially during family dinners or meal prep. Setting up a topping bar with options like sour cream, cheese, jalapeños, or different salsas encourages creativity and makes the meal feel special.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 cup cooked brown rice
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Avocado, for serving (optional)
Salsa or hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Make sure to prep these ingredients ahead of time for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your burrito bowls:

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ground turkey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Beans and Corn

Once the turkey is cooked, add the black beans and corn to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with the turkey mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with slices of avocado and a side of salsa or hot sauce, if desired.

Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful high protein turkey burrito bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl with any of your favorite vegetables or proteins. Consider adding shredded cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess!

Storage Tips

This burrito bowl holds up well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep. Store your turkey mixture, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers. This will keep the rice from becoming soggy and the toppings fresh for up to four days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the turkey and rice in the microwave until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes, then assemble your bowls again.

If you want to store the burrito bowls for longer, consider freezing the turkey mixture and rice. Make sure they are cooled completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags. This way, you can enjoy this protein-packed meal for up to three months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables in your burrito bowl. Adding zucchini, sweet potatoes, or even roasted bell peppers can elevate the dish. For a twist on flavor, you can marinate your turkey with lime juice and cilantro before cooking to introduce a zesty touch or explore Asian flavors by incorporating sesame oil and soy sauce into the mix.

If you're following a stricter dietary regimen, swapping turkey for ground chicken or even a vegetarian option like lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) can create a similar satisfying bowl. Adjust the cooking times as necessary, ensuring the meat substitutes are cooked through or the lentils are tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with chicken, beef, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas.

→ How can I meal prep this dish?

You can prepare the turkey mixture and rice in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, as it contains no gluten-based ingredients.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Freeze the turkey mixture in airtight bags for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.