Simple, healthy, delicious, and economical – beans, ground turkey, brown rice, and tomatoes are cooked with seasonings and baked with a light sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
When you’re in need of a cozy but healthful comfort meal, this Beans, Turkey, and Rice Casserole is perfect. I can imagine enjoying a plateful while sitting next to a warm fire in winter, but I really like it during the summer too!
When I was recipe testing this dish, I kept thinking to myself, “Hmmm…this looks kind of questionable. I hope it tastes ok.” Haha. Well, it does! I actually surprised myself. So, don’t be afraid to try it!
In trying to describe the flavors to you, I’ll just say what my husband said when he ate it for the first time: “Wow, this is really good. It tastes like baked chili!”
That’s a pretty accurate description. 🙂
Ground turkey, beans, brown rice, tomato, and chili seasonings are all combined into a casserole and topped with a sprinkle of cheese.
I know. Amazing.
Since the ingredients are pretty common, chances are they are in your house right now. You can substitute beef for the turkey if you prefer.
Another thing I love about this recipe is that it is easy to double and reheats well. For the two of us, that means lunches are covered for the next couple of days. 🙂
(Please note that the above photos represent a doubled recipe in a 13×9 pan.)
Enjoy!
Beans, Turkey, and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (or beef)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 15.5 oz can kidney beans, reduced sodium
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup brown rice (or white if you prefer)
- 1 1/2 cups water (if using white rice you may need less water)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella OR cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine turkey (or beef) and onion together in large skillet over medium heat and cook until meat is browned and onion is tender. Drain off grease.
Add beans, tomatoes, rice, water, and seasonings. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until rice is tender, stirring occasionally. (Time will vary depending on type of rice used. White rice typically takes less water and less time to cook than brown.)
Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease 2-quart casserole dish. Once rice is fully cooked, pour mixture into casserole dish and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Note: If doubling recipe, use a 13×9 pan.
~K in the Kitchen
KintheKitchen 