Ground Turkey Taco Skillet (Print Version)

Savory ground turkey, bright veggies, and hearty beans simmered in one skillet for a flavorful, easy meal.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 1 pound ground turkey

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 cup corn kernels
05 - 1 can (15 ounce) black beans, drained and rinsed
06 - 1 can (14.5 ounce) diced tomatoes, undrained

→ Spices & Seasonings

07 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
08 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
14 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Garnishes (Optional)

15 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
16 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
17 - 1 avocado, sliced
18 - Lime wedges

# Directions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
02 - Incorporate the diced onion and bell pepper into the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften.
03 - Stir in the corn kernels, black beans, and the undrained diced tomatoes.
04 - Add all the spices and seasonings to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
05 - Reduce the heat to medium. Allow the mixture to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring periodically, until it thickens and the flavors have fully developed.
06 - If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
07 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes for those busy weeknights
  • Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have
  • Versatile enough to serve multiple ways from tortillas to rice bowls
  • Naturally gluten free with dairy free options
02 -
  • Excellent source of protein with approximately 29g per serving
  • Naturally gluten free when using certified gluten free ingredients
  • Can be made dairy free by omitting cheese or using plant based alternatives
  • Provides a complete meal with protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates
03 -
  • Always brown the turkey thoroughly before adding vegetables for maximum flavor development. Those caramelized bits make all the difference in the final taste.
  • For a deeper flavor profile, toast your spices in the hot pan for 30 seconds before adding the wet ingredients. This simple step wakes up dried spices and creates more complex flavors.
  • Keep fresh cilantro longer by trimming the stems and storing upright in a glass with an inch of water, covered loosely with a plastic bag in the refrigerator. This way, you'll always have some ready for garnishing this delicious skillet meal.