Easy Turkey Taco Skillet
Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed weeknight dinner that doesn’t leave a pile of dishes behind? This Turkey Taco Skillet is your answer! Made in just one pan, it’s a satisfying Tex-Mex inspired meal loaded with lean ground turkey, sweet corn, hearty pinto beans, tangy salsa, crunchy tortilla chips, and melty cheese—finished with fresh toppings that bring it all together. It’s protein-packed, family-friendly, and ready in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Taco Skillet
- Quick & easy – On the table in 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- One-pan convenience – No mess, no stress, just delicious dinner.
- Nutritious & hearty – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Customizable toppings – Add your favorite garnishes to make it your own.
- Perfect for meal prep – Great reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients
Serves 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey (93% lean)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- ¾ cup canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- ¾ cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 12 oz jar salsa (your favorite kind—chunky, spicy, or mild)
- 32 tortilla chips (about 4 oz), lightly crushed
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped fresh tomatoes
- Pickled red onions, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, guacamole, or sour cream
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced jalapeño. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Brown the turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned. - Add seasonings and veggies
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne. Then add pinto beans, corn, and salsa. Mix well to combine and let simmer for 3–4 minutes to allow flavors to meld. - Add chips and cheese
Scatter the crushed tortilla chips over the top, then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over everything. - Melt the cheese
Cover the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Alternatively, place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden. - Garnish and serve
Remove from heat and top with fresh cilantro, chopped tomatoes, pickled red onions, and any additional toppings you like. Serve with lime wedges for a burst of brightness.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet meal is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with:
- A side of Mexican rice or quinoa
- A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Warm tortillas or lettuce wraps for scooping
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze the turkey mixture (before adding chips and cheese) for up to 2 months.
Recipe Variations
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef.
- Use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans.
- Try different salsas—tomatillo, chipotle, or mango for variety.
- Make it low-carb by skipping the chips and using a cheese or veggie topping instead.
Nutrition (per serving – approx. 1½ cups)
- Calories: 503 kcal
- Protein: 37 g
- Carbohydrates: 43.5 g
- Fat: 23.5 g
- Fiber: 5.5 g
- Sodium: 1081 mg
- Sugar: 9 g
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Taco Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—easy, wholesome, full of flavor, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder will become a go-to favorite.