Delicious Turkey Taco Quinoa Skillet

Jump to Recipe

Turkey taco quinoa is a vibrant, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This family-friendly recipe combines lean ground turkey, protein-rich quinoa, and a medley of spices to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Table of Contents

Delicious turkey taco quinoa packed with cheese and veggies.

Turkey Taco Quinoa Skillet

Overview of Turkey Taco Quinoa

This turkey taco quinoa skillet is a perfect blend of textures and tastes. The nutty quinoa pairs beautifully with the tender ground turkey, while the beans and vegetables add a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s a one-skillet meal, making cleanup a breeze!

Benefits of Using Quinoa

Quinoa is not just a trendy grain; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients. High in protein and fiber, quinoa offers a complete amino acid profile, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy diet. This dish is not only filling but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Delicious turkey taco quinoa packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Turkey and Protein Options

For this recipe, you’ll need 1/2 pound of lean ground turkey. If you prefer, you can substitute it with ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.

Essential Spices and Seasonings

The dish comes alive with 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. These spices bring a warm, zesty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Vegetables and Other Key Ingredients

You will also need 1/2 yellow onion, diced, and 2 cloves of minced garlic to create a fragrant base. Additionally, 4 ounces of diced green chilis, a 15-ounce can of rinsed black beans, a 14.5-ounce can of diced fire-roasted tomatoes, 1/2 cup frozen corn, and 1/4 cup jarred salsa all combine to enhance the dish’s depth. For the final touch, add 1/2 cup of rinsed quinoa and 1/2 cup of water, then top with 1/2 cup each of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese, garnished with fresh cilantro.

How to Make Turkey Taco Quinoa

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

First, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and spray with cooking spray. Add the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Incorporate the ground turkey and minced garlic, cooking until the turkey is nearly done, breaking it into crumbles. Stir in the spices and green chiles, cooking for an additional minute. Next, mix in the black beans, corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, salsa, and quinoa until well combined. Once bubbling, add the water, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the quinoa is tender but not mushy. Finally, top with shredded cheese, cover, and cook until melted. Serve directly, in tortillas, or over greens.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Quinoa

To ensure your quinoa cooks perfectly, rinse it well before use to remove any bitterness. Keep an eye on the cooking time; you want it fluffy and tender, not mushy.

Make Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

Storing Leftovers

This delicious dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

Variations and Substitutions

Dairy-Free Options

If you’re looking for dairy-free options, simply omit the cheese. You can serve the turkey taco quinoa in tortillas or over a bed of greens for a refreshing alternative.

Additional Vegetables and Toppings

Feel free to add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even some fresh lime juice for extra zest. Top with avocado, cilantro, sour cream, or fresh salsa for added flavor.

Storing and Freezing

Best Practices for Freezing

When freezing, ensure the dish is fully cooled before transferring it to airtight containers. Label each container with the date for easy tracking.

Thawing and Reheating Frozen Meals

To thaw, simply place the frozen quinoa in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When ready, follow the reheating instructions mentioned earlier.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for turkey taco quinoa?

To make turkey taco quinoa, you’ll need lean ground turkey, diced onion, minced garlic, diced green chilis, chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, black beans, fire roasted tomatoes, frozen corn, salsa, quinoa, water, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and cilantro for garnish.

How do I cook quinoa for turkey taco bowls?

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness. Combine it with water in the skillet with the other ingredients and let it simmer covered until tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Can I make turkey taco quinoa in advance for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare turkey taco quinoa in advance and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What toppings pair well with turkey taco quinoa?

Toppings that pair well include avocado, salsa, cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Is turkey taco quinoa a healthy meal option?

Absolutely! This dish is low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with nutrients from the quinoa and vegetables.

Conclusion

This turkey taco quinoa is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Your family will love the combination of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and easy enough for kids to help with. For more inspiration, check out our recipes on Pinterest.