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Close-up macro shot of Ground Turkey Taco Skillet showing rich, bubbling cheddar cheese and vibrant fresh chopped cilantro.

The Ultimate One-Pan Ground Turkey Taco Skillet

This easy Ground Turkey Taco Skillet features savory seasoned meat, melted sharp cheddar, and fresh toppings cooked in a rustic cast iron pan. A high-protein, one-pan weeknight dinner that is naturally gluten-free.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Turkey 93% lean recommended.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil For searing.
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth To deglaze the pan.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Finely diced.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro Chopped.
  • 2 tbsp Sour Cream For garnish.

Equipment

  • 1 10-inch Cast Iron Skillet Essential for a good sear and even heat distribution.
  • 1 Box Grater For freshly shredding the sharp cheddar cheese.

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil in a 10-inch (25cm) cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450g) of ground turkey, letting it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to form a crust.
  2. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5 minutes until no pink remains. Sprinkle 2 tbsp (15g) of taco seasoning over the turkey and stir continuously for 1 minute.
  3. Pour in 1/2 cup (120ml) of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the liquid reduces into a thick sauce.
  4. Remove from heat. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup (113g) of grated sharp cheddar cheese over the meat. Let it melt for 2 minutes. Garnish with 1/4 cup (40g) diced red onion, 2 tbsp (8g) fresh chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream in the center.

Notes

Tip 1. Do not rush the sear; letting the turkey sit initially builds tremendous savory flavor.
Tip 2. Always grate your sharp cheddar from a block for a smooth, gooey melt.