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Easy 20-Minute Ground Turkey Taco Skillet (One Pan)

ground turkey taco skillet - featured image

This quick and flavorful ground turkey taco skillet comes together in just 20 minutes using one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with juicy turkey, bold taco seasoning, and simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tbsp homemade blend)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Place your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer for about 30 seconds.
  2. Cook the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use your wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a brown crust. Then, stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the turkey is fully cooked through and no longer pink.
  4. Add the seasonings: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked turkey. Stir well to coat every piece. Let it cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add the liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained diced tomatoes and green chiles (if using). Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces slightly and the mixture is thick and saucy.
  7. Season and serve: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For best results, use 93% lean ground turkey to keep it juicy. If using 99% lean, add a little more broth to prevent drying. Toast the taco seasoning for 1 minute before adding liquid to enhance flavor. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash more broth; if too wet, let it simmer longer. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey taco skillet, easy taco skillet, one pan dinner, weeknight dinner, taco Tuesday, ground turkey recipe