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Easy Ground Turkey Taco Skillet - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Favorite

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional but recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 to 1.25 pounds ground turkey (93% lean is ideal)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1 cup chunky tomato salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water (as needed)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chipotle powder (optional for heat)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack), optional
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Toppings: diced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce
  • Serving ideas: warm tortillas, cooked rice or cauliflower rice, tortilla chips, or lettuce cups

Method
 

  1. Prep the aromatics: Dice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Have your spices measured and ready. This goes fast once the pan heats up.
  2. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When it shimmers, add the onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it burn.
  4. Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook 5–6 minutes until no longer pink. If excess liquid appears, let it cook off to concentrate flavor.
  5. Bloom the spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne or chipotle. Stir well and cook 1 minute to toast the spices.
  6. Add beans, corn, and salsa: Stir in black beans, corn, and salsa. If the mixture looks dry, add up to 1/2 cup broth or water. Reduce heat to medium and simmer 3–5 minutes until thick and saucy.
  7. Finish with lime: Squeeze in lime juice and taste. Adjust salt, lime, and heat as needed. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and let it melt for 1–2 minutes.
  8. Garnish and serve: Top with cilantro and your favorite toppings. Serve with tortillas, over rice, or with chips for scooping.