Savory Crunchy Turkey Tacos
These Savory Crunchy Turkey Tacos are a delightful twist on the classic favorite that the whole family will love! Packed with a flavorful turkey filling that's both hearty and satisfying, this recipe brings together the perfect balance of spices, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese. The combination of crunchy taco shells and the various toppings creates a fun and interactive dining experience, making meals a joy to prepare and eat. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
canola oil
2 tablespoons (heat in skillet)
chopped onion
1 cup (chop)
garlic clove
1 clove (minced)
ground turkey
1 lb
cumin
1 teaspoon
tomato sauce
8 ounces (canned)
water
1/4 cup
crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon
chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (chop)
salt
(to taste)
taco shells
12
grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups (grate)
shredded romaine or red leaf lettuce
2 cups (shred)
scallions
1/2 cup (thinly sliced)
black olives
1/2 to 3/4 cup (sliced)
taco sauce or salsa
(for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3
Increase the heat slightly and add the ground turkey. Cook, stirring frequently and breaking up clumps of meat, for about 5 minutes or until the turkey is browned and no longer pink.
4
Stir in the cumin and cook for an additional minute to toast the spices.
5
Pour in the tomato sauce and water, then bring to a simmer. Cover partially and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 10 minutes.
6
Uncover the skillet, increase the heat to medium, and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens but remains moist.
7
Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
8
While the turkey mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet.
9
Prepare the toppings by placing the grated cheese, shredded lettuce, sliced scallions, and olives into individual serving bowls.
10
Once the turkey mixture is cooked and the shells are ready, heat the taco shells in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
11
To serve, have each person spoon turkey filling into the taco shells, adding their choice of toppings. Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce, taco sauce, or salsa for an extra kick.
12
Note: The turkey filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a few days for easy reheating.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
15g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein in Savory Crunchy Turkey Tacos?
The main protein used in this recipe is 1 lb of ground turkey.
How many calories are in a serving of these tacos?
There are 200 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
Each serving contains 10g of fat.
How much protein is provided in this dish?
These turkey tacos provide 15g of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
The recipe contains 15g of carbohydrates.
Can I prepare the turkey filling in advance?
Yes, the turkey filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a few days.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to warm the taco shells.
How long do I need to heat the taco shells?
Heat the taco shells in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy.
What type of oil is used for sautéing the vegetables?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of canola oil.
How long should I sauté the onion and garlic?
Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
What spices are used to season the ground turkey?
The turkey is seasoned with cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt to taste.
How much tomato sauce is required?
You will need 8 ounces of canned tomato sauce.
How much water is added to the turkey mixture?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of water for simmering.
What is the simmering process for the turkey filling?
Simmer covered for 10 minutes on low heat, then uncover and simmer for 5 minutes on medium until thickened.
What kind of cheese is recommended for toppings?
Two cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese are recommended.
Is fresh cilantro used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro is stirred into the turkey mixture.
What types of lettuce can I use for the tacos?
You can use either shredded romaine or red leaf lettuce.
Are olives included as a topping?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1/2 to 3/4 cup of sliced black olives.
How many taco shells does this recipe accommodate?
This recipe is designed for 12 taco shells.
How should the scallions be prepared?
The scallions should be thinly sliced before serving.
When do I add the crushed red pepper flakes?
Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes after the turkey mixture has finished simmering and thickened.
What are the suggested sauces for serving?
You can finish the tacos with hot sauce, taco sauce, or salsa.
How much onion is needed for the base?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of chopped onion.
How many garlic cloves should I use?
Use 1 minced garlic clove for this recipe.
How do I brown the ground turkey?
Cook the turkey for about 5 minutes over medium-high heat, breaking up clumps until no longer pink.
Is this a good recipe for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is described as ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
What makes these tacos 'crunchy'?
The crunch comes from the taco shells being heated in the oven until slightly crispy.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a family-friendly meal that is sure to please even picky eaters.
What is the total number of ingredients used?
There are 16 ingredients listed for this recipe.
How long do I toast the cumin?
Stir in the cumin and cook for one additional minute after the turkey is browned to toast the spice.