Easy Ground Turkey Taco Skillet (One-Pan Meal) Recipe
This Easy Ground Turkey Taco Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring lean ground turkey seasoned with classic taco spices, sautéed vegetables, and hearty beans, this dish combines convenience with vibrant Tex-Mex flavors. You can serve it over rice or cauliflower rice and top it with cheese, sour cream, and fresh garnishes for a complete and satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with green chilies if desired)
- 1 cup cooked rice or cauliflower rice (optional, for serving or mixing in)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Brown the ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add seasoning and canned ingredients: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the turkey and stir well to coat evenly. Then add the diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer and let flavors meld: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Optional: Mix in rice: If you are using cooked rice or cauliflower rice, stir it into the skillet now and heat through for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed.
- Top with cheese and serve: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet contents. Cover the pan briefly for about 1 minute until the cheese melts. Serve with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, and avocado slices for extra flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey (93%) for a healthier option and to reduce excess grease.
- Homemade taco seasoning can replace store-bought packets for better control over sodium and spice levels.
- Optional rice or cauliflower rice adds bulk to make the meal more filling.
- Customize toppings based on your preferences for heat and texture.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat on stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: ground turkey taco skillet, one-pan meal, taco skillet, quick turkey dinner, healthy taco recipe, easy weeknight dinner
