Easy Taco Skillet
If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that packs a punch of flavor, then this Easy Taco Skillet is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. It combines the satisfaction of tacos with the convenience of a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy families or anyone who loves a good, home-cooked meal without the fuss. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make this dish not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how to make it in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
This Easy Taco Skillet is one of my go-to recipes because it’s versatile, quick, and incredibly satisfying. With just one skillet to clean, you can focus more on enjoying your meal than on doing the dishes. The combination of ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and zesty seasonings creates a comforting dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
What Goes In
To whip up this Easy Taco Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/2 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small zucchini, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans fire roasted tomatoes
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or white rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Optional toppings: cilantro, green onion, diced tomatoes, radish, avocado, jalapeño slices, pickled red onions, queso fresco
Equipment & Tools
To make your Easy Taco Skillet, gather the following equipment:
- Large skillet or frying pan – for cooking all the ingredients together.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and breaking up the ground turkey.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure your ingredients.
- Grater – for shredding zucchini and cheese.
Easy Taco Skillet Cooking Guide
Ready to make your Easy Taco Skillet? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add the Zucchini and Seasonings
Stir in the shredded zucchini, chopped cilantro, taco seasoning, and fresh lime juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Chiles
Pour in the fire roasted tomatoes and diced green chiles, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Add the Rice and Cheese
Stir in the cooked rice, mixing until evenly distributed. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, allowing it to melt into the skillet. Once melted, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with your choice of optional toppings. This Easy Taco Skillet is perfect for serving right out of the pan, making it a fun and casual meal.
Spring to Winter: Ideas
This Easy Taco Skillet is not only delicious but also adaptable to the seasons. Here are some ideas for variations:
- In spring, add fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and crunch.
- In summer, incorporate corn and diced tomatoes for a fresh, vibrant taste.
- In fall, swap the zucchini for butternut squash to add sweetness and depth.
- In winter, throw in some kale or spinach to boost the nutrition and warmth.
Insider Tips
- For added flavor, try browning the turkey with a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika.
- If you love spice, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the skillet.
- Feel free to use ground beef or chicken instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
- This dish is great for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Easy Taco Skillet is perfect for make-ahead meals. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
You can prepare the skillet ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you want to freeze it, portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust to taste!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that your taco seasoning and any additional toppings are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level can be adjusted based on your taste. If you prefer it mild, omit any spicy toppings and reduce the number of green chiles.
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In Closing
In the world of quick dinners, this Easy Taco Skillet stands out as a flavorful and satisfying option that the whole family will love. It’s packed with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or enjoying it as a comforting meal on the weekend, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s as easy to make as it is to eat!
Easy Taco Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Stir in the shredded zucchini, chopped cilantro, taco seasoning, and fresh lime juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Pour in the fire roasted tomatoes and diced green chiles, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Stir in the cooked rice, mixing until evenly distributed. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, allowing it to melt into the skillet. Once melted, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with your choice of optional toppings. This Easy Taco Skillet is perfect for serving right out of the pan, making it a fun and casual meal.
Notes
- For added flavor, try browning the turkey with a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika.
- If you love spice, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the skillet.
- Feel free to use ground beef or chicken instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
- This dish is great for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
