High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl

Name: High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 avocado, sliced (for topping); Optional: salsa or hot sauce

Highlighted under: Good-For-You Recipes

I love preparing a nutritious meal that doesn't skimp on flavor, and this High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl is a perfect example. Packed with lean turkey, vibrant veggies, and hearty grains, it satisfies cravings while fueling my body. I appreciate how customizable it is—whether I’m in the mood for spicier flavors or milder ones, I can easily adjust the spices. Plus, it's great for meal prep, making my weeknight dinners a breeze.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:22:35.689Z

When I first created this High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl, I wanted something nutritious that was also hearty enough to satisfy a dinner craving. The combination of lean ground turkey with a mix of black beans and quinoa allowed me to create a protein-packed meal. I quickly learned that to balance the flavors perfectly, adding fresh lime juice and cilantro at the end truly elevates the dish.

This bowl has now become a family favorite. I can prepare larger batches for meal preps and store them in the fridge. Reheating is a breeze, and the flavors get even better as they meld together—just don’t forget to top it with fresh avocado before serving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High in protein for muscle recovery
Versatile with endless toppings options
Perfect for meal prepping and weekday dinners

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to mastering the High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl. The quinoa serves as a hearty, gluten-free grain that not only provides a nutty flavor but also a significant protein boost. Ground turkey is a lean protein source that absorbs the spices beautifully, making it flavorful without excessive fat. Fresh ingredients like bell pepper and onion add texture and a sweetness that balances the spices, while black beans contribute fiber, enhancing satiety.

Spices like cumin and paprika elevate the dish, adding depth and warmth. You can adjust the levels to suit your taste; a bit more cumin can offer an earthy punch, while extra paprika can make it smokier. Keeping fresh lime juice and cilantro as finishing touches brightens up the bowl and adds a refreshing contrast to the savory elements. If you'd like a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute lemon or even a splash of vinegar for the lime juice.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This recipe is a fantastic meal prep option due to its ease of assembly and storage. After cooking, let the burrito bowl mixture cool completely before dividing it into airtight containers for the week. You can refrigerate the assembled bowls for up to four days or freeze portions for longer storage. If you plan to freeze, consider keeping the avocado and fresh toppings separate until serving to maintain their texture and freshness.

When reheating, I recommend microwaving individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. If you freeze the mixture, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. The flavors meld beautifully over time, often making it taste even better after a day or two in the fridge, so it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

One of the best aspects of the High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl is its versatility. You can easily swap out the ground turkey for other proteins such as shredded chicken or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Want it spicier? Try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when browning the turkey. The toppings are also fully customizable—consider adding cheese, Greek yogurt, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.

Serve the turkey burrito bowl in colorful, deep dishes to make it visually appealing. A sprinkle of extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime just before serving can brighten the dish further. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider layering it in a whole-grain wrap instead of a bowl for a satisfying burrito meal. With so many possibilities, you can keep revisiting this recipe while trying different flavor combinations.

Ingredients

Bowl Ingredients

1 lb lean ground turkey
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, sliced (for topping)
Optional: salsa or hot sauce

Combine these ingredients for a hearty meal!

Steps

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

Brown the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Push the veggies to the side and add the ground turkey, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Mix it All Together

Once the turkey is done, drain any excess fat. Stir in the black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and cilantro. Scoop into bowls and top with sliced avocado and optional salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños for added flavor. You can also use other grains like brown rice for variety.

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

Timing is crucial when it comes to cooking the quinoa. To achieve that perfect fluffy texture, make sure the water is at a rolling boil before lowering it to a simmer. Keeping the lid on while it steams allows it to absorb all the water without burning. Remember, let it sit covered for an extra five minutes post-cooking—this step lets it finalize its cooking process and increases fluffiness.

When browning the turkey, crumble it well with a spatula to avoid any large clumps that won't cook evenly. The goal is to achieve a nice golden-brown color, which indicates flavor development. If you notice any sticking, a splash of water or broth can help deglaze the pan and bring those browned bits into the mix.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you're looking to reduce carbohydrates, consider substituting quinoa with cauliflower rice, which can be prepared by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until it resembles rice and lightly sautéing it. This swap cuts calories while maintaining volume and texture. For those avoiding beans, you can increase the amount of diced bell peppers or add shredded zucchini for additional veggies and fiber without the extra carbs.

Those under sodium restrictions might opt for low-sodium black beans or even rinsing canned beans thoroughly to reduce salt content. Additionally, swapping regular oil with olive oil or avocado oil not only enhances flavor but adds healthy fats to the dish, making it more heart-healthy.

Enjoying Leftovers Creatively

Leftover High Protein Turkey Burrito Bowl can inspire new meals! Try using it as a filling for stuffed peppers, baking them until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. It'll give a new twist and introduce a delightful presentation—plus, it’s another way to incorporate more veggies into your diet.

Another fun idea is to transform the mixture into a hearty breakfast. Simply heat it up in a skillet with a touch of oil, crack a few eggs into the pan, and scramble them together until everything is mixed and cooked through. Serve with avocado slices or a dollop of yogurt for a nourishing start to the day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken or beef instead?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef as per your preference.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free grains and toppings.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace ground turkey with crumbled tofu or a plant-based protein, and omit the cheese and sour cream.