Ground Turkey Tacos
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4 servings (2 tacos each)
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Tex-Mex
Ground Turkey Tacos
Description
Ground Turkey Tacos showcase ground turkey seasoned with salt, pepper, minced garlic, chili powder, ancho chili powder, cumin, and optional smoked paprika. The meat is browned and then simmered with salsa to create a moist, flavorful filling. The use of both chili powders and cumin provides depth and a mildly smoky taste, while the fresh salsa adds brightness.
The tacos are assembled on warmed corn tortillas that can be lightly toasted with a small amount of oil to achieve light golden spots, contributing a gentle crisp texture. Topped with shredded Monterey jack or cheddar cheese, fresh diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and optional hot sauce, the tacos present a balance of heat, creaminess, and fresh crunch.
This recipe serves as a versatile meal, appropriate for casual dinners where customization is welcome. The turkey filling can be prepared ahead, and tortillas are easily warmed just prior to serving. The option to add hot sauce accommodates varied spice preferences.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Taco Filling
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb. ground turkey broken into chunks, 93% lean
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ancho chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin ground
- 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet, optional)
- 1 cup salsa store-bought fresh or homemade, fresh
- 3 Tbsp chopped cilantro
For Serving
- 8 (6-inch) corn tortilla warmed (see notes
- 3/4 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese or cheddar cheese
- 2 small Roma tomato or 1 cup grape tomatoes), diced
- 2 cup shredded romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce
- hot sauce such as Cholula or Tapatio, optional, Mexican
Instructions
- Heat oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over moderately high heat.
- Add turkey season with salt and pepper and let lightly brown on bottom, about 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat slightly, turn turkey, add garlic. Break up turkey and let just barely cook through.
- Add chili powder, ancho chili powder, cumin, optional paprika and saute 30 seconds longer.
- Pour in salsa and toss. Reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for a few minutes. Note that every salsa is different, if mixture is a little dry you can add a splash of chicken broth or water as needed.
- Serve turkey mixture over individual warmed tortillas topped with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and optional hot sauce.
Notes
- To warm tortillas, coat lightly with olive oil and toast in a skillet until golden spots appear, enhancing texture and flavor.
- Alternatively, brush tortillas with oil and cook multiple at a time for convenience.
- Salsa moisture levels vary; add small amounts of broth or water during cooking if the mixture seems dry.