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Easy One-Skillet Ground Turkey Taco Skillet Recipe for Quick Dinner Ideas

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A quick, fuss-free, and flavorful one-skillet ground turkey taco skillet that balances hearty and fresh flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners and taco nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (lean or regular)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (240 ml)
  • 1 can black beans (15 oz/425 g), drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 fresh lime, juiced
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (about 60 g), cheddar or Mexican blend (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and drain and rinse the black beans (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Wait until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pan. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and slightly caramelized.
  4. Toss in the garlic and stir for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Push the veggies to the side and add the ground turkey. Break it up with your spatula and cook for 7-8 minutes or until no longer pink.
  6. Stir everything together so the flavors start to meld.
  7. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the turkey and veggies. Stir well to coat everything and cook for another 2 minutes.
  8. Pour in the tomato sauce, then fold in the black beans and corn kernels. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  9. Cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes to thicken and let the flavors marry.
  10. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Just before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
  12. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on the skillet, cover with a lid or foil, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper browning. Keep heat medium-high to develop a golden crust. Toast spices after turkey is partially cooked for deeper flavor. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid soggy skillet. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish and is recommended. For heat, add cayenne or jalapeños with bell peppers. Stir gently when adding beans to keep them intact. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey, taco skillet, one-skillet recipe, quick dinner, easy dinner, healthy tacos, weeknight meal, gluten-free, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/easy-one-skillet-ground-turkey-taco-skillet-recipe-for-quick-dinner-ideas/