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Easy 20-Minute Ground Turkey Taco Skillet

ground turkey taco skillet - featured image

A quick and flavorful one-pan meal made with ground turkey, spices, and tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this taco skillet comes together in just 20 minutes and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper (red or orange), diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) chicken broth
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the pepper softens.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink and browned bits form.
  5. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the turkey. Stir and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  6. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute until it darkens slightly.
  7. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  8. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  10. Serve hot in bowls or over rice, topped with desired toppings.

Notes

Use 93% lean ground turkey for best moisture. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add extra smoky flavor. The skillet tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey taco skillet, easy weeknight dinner, 20-minute meal, one-pan taco, healthy taco recipe