I love simple and budget-friendly summer dinners! Have you noticed how much the price of ground beef has gone up lately? I sure have! That’s why I’ve been swapping it for ground turkey instead. Not only is it more affordable, but it’s also leaner and a healthier option. This easy ground turkey burrito recipe is a perfect family dinner idea!
INGREDIENTS
For the Turkey Filling:
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ white onion, diced
- ½ green bell pepper, diced (optional)
For the Mexican Red Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (Jasmine works well)
- 2 cups chicken stock (or preferred broth)
- ¼ sweet onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large Roma tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp tomato bouillon (or 1 tbsp tomato paste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Guacamole (Optional):
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt to taste
For Burrito Assembly:
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, diced
- ½ cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 10 burrito-sized flour tortillas
INSTRUCTIONS
Making the Turkey Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, then stir in the bell pepper and cook until softened.
- In a bowl, season the ground turkey with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and tomato paste. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned turkey to the pan and cook until fully browned.
- Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
Making the Mexican Red Rice:
- Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
- Stir in the rice and salt, coating it in the oil. Cook, stirring every two minutes, until the rice turns lightly golden.
- In a blender, combine the diced onion, chicken broth, garlic, Roma tomatoes, and tomato bouillon. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture into the rice (be careful—it may sizzle).
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low-medium heat. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
- Remove the lid and check the moisture level. If there is still excess liquid, cook uncovered for 3-5 more minutes.
- Once done, turn off the heat and let it sit for 5-6 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Making the Guacamole:
- Peel and mash the avocado in a small bowl.
- Mix in garlic powder, chili powder, lime juice, and salt.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Assembling the Burritos:
- Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave.
- Spread a layer of guacamole in the center, leaving space around the edges for folding.
- Layer the rice, turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes on top.
- Fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
- Serve immediately with salsa or sour cream.
Enjoy your delicious, budget-friendly ground turkey burritos!
