Mediterranean Turkey Rice Bake – Crock Pot Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low setting)
Servings: 6
This Mediterranean Turkey Rice Bake is a healthy, hearty, and flavorful one-dish meal made conveniently in your crock pot. With the earthy goodness of brown rice, the lean protein of ground turkey, and a vibrant blend of Mediterranean vegetables and herbs, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome dinner ready with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Brown rice | 2 cups |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Turkey broth | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh thyme, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh sage, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Zucchini, diced | 1/4 cup |
| Kalamata olives, chopped | 1 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1 cup |
| Stewed tomatoes, chopped | 1 can (15 ounces) |
| Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 466.6 |
| Total Fat | 12.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 78.3 mg |
| Sodium | 529.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 59.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.8 g |
| Sugars | 7.1 g |
| Protein | 31.2 g |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step directions for a stress-free, delicious meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Turkey
- Spray a non-stick sauté pan with cooking spray to ensure the turkey doesn’t stick.
- Add the ground turkey, a pinch of salt, black pepper to taste, 1 tablespoon of thyme, and 1 tablespoon of sage. Sauté over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink.
- Once cooked through, drain any excess fat and transfer the turkey to your crock pot.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
- Add the brown rice to the crock pot, distributing it evenly over the turkey.
- Pour in the chicken broth and turkey broth, ensuring the rice is submerged for even cooking.
- Stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, and sage to add a fresh herbal aroma.
- Toss in the minced garlic, diced zucchini, chopped Kalamata olives, diced onion, and stewed tomatoes. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure even seasoning and distribution.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the crock pot with the lid, ensuring a tight seal to retain moisture and flavors.
- Set the crock pot to low and cook for 6–8 hours. If you’re short on time, set it to high for 3–4 hours. Stir occasionally if desired, though it’s not necessary.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- When the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and give the mixture a gentle stir.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese generously over the top for a savory finishing touch.
- Serve warm directly from the crock pot into individual bowls or plates.
Cooking Tips
- Customization: Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef for variety.
- Extra Veggies: Add in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for an even more nutrient-packed meal.
- Vegan Option: Replace the turkey with plant-based ground meat, chicken broth with vegetable broth, and omit the cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Meal Prep: The crock pot does all the heavy lifting, so you can focus on other tasks while it cooks.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, whole grains, and veggies, this dish is perfect for a wholesome dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The Mediterranean flavors are both unique and comforting, making this recipe a hit for family meals or gatherings.
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