This Taco Skillet is the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor! Imagine a one-pan meal that brings all the delicious elements of taco night right to your table—without the mess of assembling individual tacos. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and the best part? Everyone can get involved in customizing their plates. You’ll savor each bite filled with seasoned ground turkey, colorful veggies, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips. It’s comforting, vibrant, and oh-so-satisfying. So, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this Taco Skillet will surely hit the spot. Let’s get cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
This Taco Skillet is a one-pan wonder that marries all the essential flavors of traditional tacos into a quick, easy meal. The use of ground turkey keeps it lean while adding the robust flavors of homemade taco seasoning, which enhances each delicious bite. This recipe proves that practicality does not compromise taste; the combination of sautéed vegetables, beans, and cheeses creates a filling dish that satisfies.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Skillet
Imagine a dish that captures the comfort and excitement of taco night but without the mess and complicated preparation. This Taco Skillet is not only quick to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights—but it’s also customizable to fit your family’s preferences. Its vibrant colors and enticing aromas are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters, making mealtime an enjoyable experience.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4-ounce can diced green chiles
- 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 15-ounce jar salsa
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 10 tortilla chips
Cooking Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to broil. Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, swirling it to coat the bottom of the pan.
Cook the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. As it cooks, crumble it with a spatula. Once it’s partially cooked, push it to one side of the skillet.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the open space of the skillet, add the diced bell pepper and onion. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sauté the vegetables with the turkey until they are tender and the turkey is fully cooked.
Combine with Additional Ingredients
Pour in the black beans, frozen corn, diced green chiles, chopped cilantro, and the jar of salsa. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
Top with Cheese and Tortilla Chips
Evenly distribute the mixture in the skillet, then top it with torn tortilla chips and shredded Colby Jack cheese.
Broil for a Cheesy Finish
Place the skillet in the preheated oven under the broiler. Broil until the cheese is melted and lightly browned, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Serving Suggestions
This Taco Skillet pairs wonderfully with a side of guacamole or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving it with warm tortillas or even over rice for a heartier meal.
Tips for Success
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Make it vegetarian by substituting the ground turkey with more beans or a plant-based protein.
- Tweak the cheese to your liking; Monterey Jack or Cheddar also work beautifully.
Variations
- Taco Skillet with Beef: Swap the turkey for lean ground beef for a richer flavor.
- Southwestern Veggie Skillet: Include zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for additional veggies.
- Spicy Taco Skillet: Add diced chipotles or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this Taco Skillet with a classic margarita or a refreshing iced tea. For a complete meal, serve it alongside tortilla chips and your favorite salsa.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a direct substitute for ground turkey in this recipe.
2. How can I make this Taco Skillet spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, more chili powder, or hot sauce to increase the heat level.
3. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground turkey with black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative.
4. Can I freeze the Taco Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.
5. What are good toppings for the Taco Skillet?
Consider avocado, sour cream, or additional salsa for tasty toppings.
This Taco Skillet recipe is a vibrant culinary experience that captures the essence of taco night without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or indulging in a solo feast, this dish brings joyful flavors to the table. With minimal preparation and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights while offering endless possibilities for customization. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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Taco Skillet
This Taco Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that brings the fun of taco night to the table without the hassle. Packed with flavor, it features seasoned turkey, vibrant veggies, and melty cheese, making it ideal for a quick, satisfying meal any night of the week.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4-ounce can diced green chiles
- 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 15-ounce jar salsa
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 10 tortilla chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to broil.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook ground turkey, crumbling it while cooking, then push aside.
- Sauté diced bell pepper and onion with seasonings until tender.
- Stir in black beans, corn, green chiles, cilantro, and salsa.
- Top with tortilla chips and cheese.
- Broil until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
For extra spice, add jalapeños or extra chili powder.
Can be made vegetarian by using more beans or a plant-based protein.
Alternate cheeses like Monterey Jack can enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 90
