Speedy One-Pan Ground Turkey Taco Skillet (Print Version)

Whip up a flavorful One-Pan Ground Turkey Taco Skillet for a quick weeknight meal. Easy cleanup, packed with savory taco goodness and fresh toppings.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Dietary: Gluten-Free (if using GF seasoning), High Protein

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 tbsp olive oil
02 - 1 lb lean ground turkey
03 - 1 medium onion, chopped
04 - 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped

→ Flavor Boosters

05 - 2 tbsp taco seasoning
06 - 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
07 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
08 - 1 cup frozen corn
09 - 1/4 cup chicken broth

→ Finishing Touches

10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
11 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - 1 lime, cut into wedges

→ Optional Extras

13 - Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
14 - Avocado slices or guacamole
15 - Hot sauce, for a kick

# Instructions:

01 - Okay, first things first, get that large skillet hot over medium-high heat. Add a tiny drizzle of olive oil, then your ground turkey. Break it up with your spatula and let it brown, really brown, for about 5-7 minutes. This is where you build flavor, so don't rush it! I sometimes get distracted and let it get a little too crispy, but honestly, it still tastes good. Drain any excess fat, if there is any, though with lean turkey, there usually isn't much.
02 - Once the turkey is nicely browned, toss in your chopped onion and bell pepper. Stir them around with the turkey for another 3-5 minutes, until they start to soften and get fragrant. You'll smell that sweet oniony goodness, and that's your cue! I've definitely thrown the veggies in too early before the turkey was properly browned, and it just doesn't hit the same. Patience, my friend, patience.
03 - Now for the flavor explosion! Sprinkle in your taco seasoning. Stir it well, coating all the turkey and veggies. Let it cook for just about a minute, stirring constantly. This toasts the spices, making them even more aromatic. Oh, the smell here is just incredible! It’s what makes this a true One-Pan Ground Turkey Taco Skillet. I always take a deep breath right here, it’s like a little kitchen aromatherapy.
04 - Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles, the rinsed black beans, and the corn. Give it all a good stir to combine everything. Then, add that splash of chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. This is where all those flavors really get to know each other, you know?
05 - Let the skillet simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want most of the liquid to absorb or evaporate, creating a nice thick sauce that clings to everything. Once it’s looking saucy and delicious, sprinkle that generous amount of shredded cheese right over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid (or foil if you don't have one) and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. It’s so satisfying watching it get all gooey!
06 - Once the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Take off the lid and scatter fresh chopped cilantro over the top. A good squeeze of fresh lime juice is essential here, it just brightens everything. Serve your amazing One-Pan Ground Turkey Taco Skillet right out of the pan! It's messy, it's delicious, and it's exactly what a weeknight meal should be. Don't be shy about digging in!

# Notes:

01 - Browning the turkey really well before adding anything else is a game-changer for flavor.
02 - Leftovers are great for lunch, but let the skillet cool completely before storing to avoid mushiness.
03 - No bell pepper? A diced zucchini works surprisingly well for added texture and nutrients.
04 - Serving with fresh lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream just takes it to the next level.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet (10-12 inch)
02 - spatula

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 40g