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30-Minute Taco Skillet - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Winner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef (80–90% lean) or ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using very lean meat)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2–3 tablespoons) or homemade
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smokiness)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth (or water), as needed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1–1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • For serving: tortilla chips, warm tortillas, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using lean meat, add olive oil. When hot, add the ground beef or turkey.
  2. Brown the meat: Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains, about 5–6 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Season: Sprinkle in taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to coat the meat and veggies.
  5. Add sauces and veggies: Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce or salsa, black beans, and corn. Stir well.
  6. Adjust consistency: Add broth a little at a time until it’s saucy but not soupy. You may not need it all.
  7. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium and cook 5–7 minutes to let flavors meld and thicken slightly. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  8. Add lime and cheese: Stir in lime juice. Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for 1–2 minutes.
  9. Finish and serve: Top with cilantro if using. Serve with chips, tortillas, sour cream, avocado, and any extra hot sauce you like.