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Keto Turkey Crack Taco Skillet - A Fast, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (93% lean works well)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar (or Mexican blend), divided
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, shredded lettuce

Method
 

  1. Warm the skillet: Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high. Add the avocado oil and let it shimmer.
  2. Sauté the veggies: Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring, until softened and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook 6–8 minutes until no longer pink and any excess moisture cooks off.
  4. Add the spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if using. Stir to coat the meat evenly and toast the spices for 30–60 seconds.
  5. Build the sauce: Stir in the tomato paste. Cook 1 minute, then pour in the broth. Scrape up any browned bits. Reduce heat to medium and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Make it “crack” creamy: Add the cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth, coating the turkey mixture. If it seems too thick, splash in a bit more broth.
  7. Add the cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted and gooey. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Finish and melt: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to melt, or slide under a broiler for 1 minute for slight bubbling and color.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Add your favorite toppings and serve hot.