Ground Turkey Tacos Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
3 mins
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Cook Time
12 mins
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Total Time
15 mins
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Servings
4 servings (1 cup each)
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Calories
212 kcal
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Course
Main Course
Ground Turkey Tacos Recipe
Description
The recipe begins by preparing a homemade taco seasoning of chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt, optionally thickened with cornstarch. The turkey is browned in olive oil with onions, garlic, and oregano, then combined with the seasoning and tomato sauce to simmer and thicken. Brown sugar and apple cider vinegar provide balance to the savory and spicy flavors.
This taco filling has a tender texture from the ground turkey, with a sauce that coats the meat without being overly wet. Seasonings bring warmth and mild heat, while the tomato sauce adds moisture and acidity. Freshly ground salt and pepper adjust the taste to preference.
The meat is served with warm corn or flour tortillas and classic taco toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced avocado to add freshness, creaminess, and texture contrasts.
Using 93% lean turkey prevents dryness, and the recipe yields about 4 cups of taco meat, suitable for making multiple tacos per person. Leftovers should be stored covered in the refrigerator and are best consumed within four days.
Ingredients
For the taco seasoning (see note 1):
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin ground
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- salt
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the tacos:
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 pound ground turkey (see note 2)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (see note 3)
- salt freshly ground
- black pepper freshly ground
Toppings for serving:
- corn tortillas or flour tortillas
- lettuce shredded
- diced tomatoes
- sour cream
- cheddar cheese shredded
- avocado pitted, peeled, and diced
Instructions
To make the taco seasoning:
- In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste (I like 1/2 teaspoon), Whisk in cornstarch if desired. (Or, substitute one packet store-bought taco seasoning).
To make the tacos:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning, garlic, and oregano until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add ground turkey and cook, stirring occasionally, until almost cooked through but still slightly pink, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 4 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
To serve:
- Serve the meat hot with the tortillas and all your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, cheese, and diced avocado.
Notes
- Homemade taco seasoning is provided but can be substituted with a store-bought packet if preferred.
- Use 93% lean ground turkey to maintain moisture; very lean (99%) turkey breast tends to be dry.
- Brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness balancing the spices but can be omitted if undesired.
- The recipe yields approximately 4 cups of taco meat, enough for 4 servings.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator covered for up to 4 days.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings (1 cup each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 212 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 cup meat | |
| Calories | 212kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 84mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 116mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 368mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 932IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 60mg | 6% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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