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Turkey Taco Skillet - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Meal

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (or any color)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 to 1.25 pounds ground turkey (93% lean works well)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2–3 tablespoons) or homemade blend
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained, if canned)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime, plus wedges for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, hot sauce
  • For serving: warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or cooked rice/cauliflower rice

Method
 

  1. Warm the pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and turkey: Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground turkey. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, 5–7 minutes.
  3. Season generously: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the turkey evenly.
  4. Build the base: Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  5. Simmer to meld flavors: Reduce heat to medium-low. Let it bubble gently for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. If it looks dry, add a splash more broth.
  6. Finish with cheese and lime: Sprinkle the cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and cook 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts. Squeeze in fresh lime juice and stir once.
  7. Garnish and serve: Top with cilantro and any extras you like. Serve with warm tortillas, over rice, or with chips. Add avocado, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you’re in the mood.