why make this recipe
Turkey Taco Skillet is a great dish for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This one-pan meal is perfect for families, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. Plus, it’s healthier than traditional tacos thanks to the lean ground turkey.
how to make Turkey Taco Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 sweet onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey (94% lean)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Pickled onions (for serving)
- Cotija cheese (for sprinkling)
- Lime wedges (for spritzing)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered (for quick pico)
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced (for quick pico)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (for quick pico)
- 1/2 lime, juiced (for quick pico)
- Pinch of salt and pepper (for quick pico)
- 1 avocado (for quick guac)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for quick guac)
- 1 lime, juiced (for quick guac)
- Pinch of salt and pepper (for quick guac)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the peppers, onions, and garlic with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add in the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season it with cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well, continuing to break apart the meat into small crumbles. Cook until browned.
- Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour. Toss and stir, then add chicken stock. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top and let it melt.
- Top with lettuce, pickled onions, quick pico, guac, and cotija cheese if desired. Serve with tortilla chips.
Quick Pico: Toss tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice together; season with salt and pepper.
Quick Guac: Mash avocado, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper together; adjust to taste.
how to serve Turkey Taco Skillet
Serve Turkey Taco Skillet warm, topped with lettuce, pickled onions, quick pico, guacamole, and cotija cheese. Add lime wedges on the side for a fresh spritz. Enjoy with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping!
how to store Turkey Taco Skillet
To store leftovers, let the Turkey Taco Skillet cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, but be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Turkey Taco Skillet
- Use lean ground turkey to keep the dish healthy.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking the turkey.
variation
You can easily turn this dish into a vegetarian option by using black beans or lentils instead of ground turkey. Simply season them the same way and follow the cooking instructions.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! You can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey if desired.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, skip the flour or use a gluten-free flour alternative.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook everything when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can make it fully and reheat it later.
