Description
This Irresistible Turkey Taco Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal ready in just 20 minutes. Featuring lean ground turkey sautéed with taco seasoning, tender bell peppers, black beans, corn, and fresh spinach, it’s finished off with zesty lime juice, fresh cilantro, and melted Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy, vibrant dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Lean Ground Turkey (The star of the dish for protein.)
- 1 tbsp Olive or Avocado Oil (For sautéing.)
- 1 tbsp Taco Seasoning (Store-bought for convenience.)
- 1 cup Diced Red Bell Pepper (Adds sweetness and crunch.)
- 1 cup Salsa (Choose your favorite variety.)
- 1 can Drained Black Beans (Or substitute with lentils.)
- 1 cup Corn (Sweet flavor complements the dish.)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice (For fresh, zesty flavor.)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (Adds freshness.)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (For a creamy finish.)
- 2 cups Spinach (optional) (Add towards the end for nutrition.)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat the olive or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about a minute to prepare for sautéing the turkey.
- Cook the Turkey: Add the lean ground turkey and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until browned thoroughly, approximately 4 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
- Sauté the Bell Peppers: Incorporate the diced red bell pepper into the skillet and cook for 7-8 minutes until the peppers are softened and tender.
- Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in the salsa, drained black beans, and corn. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Add Spinach: If using, add the fresh spinach and stir it in during the last minute of cooking until it wilts nicely, enhancing the dish’s nutrition.
- Finish with Cheese and Fresh Flavors: Mix in the Monterey Jack cheese, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy and flavorful finish.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey to keep the dish healthy and packed with protein.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute turkey with lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning depending on your preferred spice level.
- Fresh spinach is optional but adds a nutritional boost and vibrant color.
- Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or over a bed of greens for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat easily in a skillet or microwave.
