20-Minute Turkey Taco Skillet (for Angela)
Angela, you’re a lifesaver! Your story about a broken microwave and hungry teens inspired this recipe. I made this Turkey Taco Skillet just for you and your family. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights.
This 20-minute meal will keep everyone happy and well-fed. You’ll love how simple it is to make. Thanks for being an amazing reader – your support means the world to me!
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty Turkey Taco Skillet:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 (12oz) jar salsa
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, roughly chopped
• 1 lime
• Tortilla chips
You might already have some of these items in your kitchen. The recipe uses common ingredients you can find at most grocery stores.
Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your preferences. Want it spicier? Add some hot sauce or extra spices. Like more veggies? Toss in some corn or extra peppers.
Instructions
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and bell pepper with a pinch of salt. Cook for 3-5 minutes until peppers are soft.
Add ground turkey, salt, garlic powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until turkey is no longer pink.
Pour in salsa and black beans. Stir and heat through. Sprinkle cheese on top.
Place skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from heat. Top with sliced avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Serve hot with tortilla chips on the side. Enjoy your quick and tasty turkey taco skillet!
Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some easy swaps and tweaks you can try:
Protein options:
- Ground beef or chicken instead of turkey
- Tofu crumbles for a vegetarian version
Bean alternatives:
- Pinto beans
- Kidney beans
- Corn kernels
Cheese choices:
- Cheddar
- Monterey Jack
- Pepper Jack for extra heat
Veggie mix-ins:
- Diced zucchini
- Chopped spinach
- Sliced mushrooms
Try these variations to spice up your taco skillet:
- Swap the salsa for diced tomatoes and green chiles
- Add taco seasoning for extra flavor
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch
You can also serve your skillet in different ways:
- Wrapped in tortillas
- Over rice or quinoa
- In lettuce cups for a low-carb option
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add more cumin or throw in some chili powder if you like it spicier. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Make this meal even quicker by prepping ingredients ahead of time. Chop the bell pepper and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
For extra flavor, toast your spices in the pan before adding the turkey. This brings out their aromatics and deepens the taste.
Got leftovers? Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Freeze portions for later use. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Switch up the toppings! Try sour cream, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for variety.
Make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice instead of with tortilla chips.
For a veggie boost, add corn or spinach when you put in the beans.
Double the recipe to feed a bigger crowd or have extra for lunches during the week.
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.