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Easy Flavor-Packed Ground Turkey Taco Skillet

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A quick and easy one-pan ground turkey taco skillet recipe that delivers bold, layered taco flavors perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Instructions

  1. Dice one medium onion and one bell pepper into small, even pieces. Mince three garlic cloves. Thaw frozen corn by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving for 30 seconds. Drain and rinse one can of black beans.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Warm until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink and lightly browned. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
  4. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened but still slightly firm, stirring often.
  5. Stir in minced garlic, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to toast spices and release aroma, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Pour in one 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained black beans, and thawed corn. Stir to combine and reduce heat to medium. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until flavors meld and mixture thickens slightly.
  7. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover skillet with a lid or foil and let sit off heat for 3-4 minutes until cheese melts.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve warm, spooned into bowls or with warm tortillas.

Notes

If the mixture is too wet, increase heat and cook uncovered a few extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Do not skip resting time with cheese covered to allow it to melt properly. For juicier turkey, brown meat well before adding liquids. Adjust spices to taste and consider adding jalapeños or cayenne for heat. Can substitute ground chicken or beef. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey, taco skillet, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, one-pan, healthy tacos, lean protein