One-Pan Turkey Taco Skillet

Lean ground turkey, black beans, frozen corn, and salsa become a hearty taco filling in one skillet, finished with just enough cheese. Choose tortillas, microwaveable rice, or bagged lettuce at the table.

20 min

4 servings

A colorful turkey taco skillet holds ground turkey, black beans, corn, salsa, and a light melted cheese layer.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground turkey

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp taco seasoning

1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 1/2 cups frozen corn

1 cup chunky salsa

1/2 cup water

Equipment

Large nonstick skillet with lid · Wooden spoon · Can opener · Measuring cup

Shortcut smart

Canned beans, frozen corn, jarred salsa, and a seasoning packet replace chopping and separate sauce-making without using canned mixed vegetables.

Make it your way

Set out warm tortillas, ready rice, and crisp bagged lettuce so everyone can choose tacos, bowls, or taco salads from the same skillet.

Brown the turkey

01. Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet until glossy; this helps lean turkey release and brown evenly.

02. Cook turkey with taco seasoning for 6 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles until no pink remains and it reaches 165 F.

Simmer the filling

03. Stir in black beans, frozen corn, salsa, and water, using the spoon to lift any flavorful browned bits from the skillet.

04. Simmer uncovered for 4 minutes until the corn is hot and the salsa clings to the filling instead of leaving a watery puddle.

Melt and serve

05. Scatter on the modest amount of cheese, cover, and let residual steam melt it into a glossy layer.

06. Warm tortillas or microwave rice as directed while the cheese melts, or keep bagged lettuce cold for taco salads.

07. Spoon the skillet mixture into the chosen base and serve right away, leaving the empty skillet as the only pan to wash.