Go Back

Ground Turkey Pepper Jack Bake - Cozy, Cheesy, and Weeknight-Friendly

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Ground turkey: 1 to 1.25 pounds (93% lean works best for moisture and flavor)
  • Pepper jack cheese: 8 ounces, shredded (about 2 cups)
  • Onion: 1 medium, diced
  • Bell pepper: 1 large, diced (red or green)
  • Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional for extra heat)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
  • Rotel or diced tomatoes with green chiles: 1 can (10 ounces), drained
  • Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
  • Cooked rice or quinoa: 2 cups (white, brown, or leftover rice works great)
  • Olive oil: 1 to 2 tablespoons
  • Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Fresh lime: 1, for finishing (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions: for topping (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt: for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or use an oven-safe skillet to keep it one-pan.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in jalapeño (if using) and garlic; cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 6–8 minutes until no longer pink and lightly browned in spots.
  4. Build the sauce: Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook 1 minute to bloom the spices. Add drained Rotel and chicken broth. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Fold in the grains: Stir in the cooked rice or quinoa until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning. A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors nicely.
  6. Assemble: If using a baking dish, transfer the mixture. Smooth it into an even layer. Sprinkle shredded pepper jack over the top in an even blanket.
  7. Bake: Place in the oven for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are bubbling. For a golden top, broil 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Finish and serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Top with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve with lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you like.