Crispy Turkey Tacos

Crispy taco shells loaded with spiced ground turkey and a slew of toppings

I don't have much experience frying food, but I was inspired to make crispy taco shells after discovering how easy it is to fry tortillas in this recipe. I usually opt for healthier versions of Mexican food, so I balanced the fried taco shells with a lean ground turkey filling. The seasoning blend and chipotle peppers add a lot of flavor to the meat, making it a good alternative to a traditional ground beef filling. Load up on whatever topping you like - I used cheese, guacamole, and chopped tomato here. It's the perfect cheap and easy weeknight meal and leftover turkey is great in a burrito or rice bowl.


More Taco Recipes:
- Crispy Ground Beef Tacos
- Breakfast Tacos
- Lamb Carnitas Tacos


Crispy Ground Turkey Tacos:

• Heat 1 tbsp. vegetable oil in a skillet. Add 1 lb. ground turkey and 1 tbsp. taco seasoning*.
• Brown turkey in the pan for 3 minutes, then add 1/2 c. chicken stock and 1 tbsp. adobo sauce.**
• Cook turkey, breaking into small pieces as you go, for another 5-7 minutes, until almost all liquid is absorbed and meat is cooked through.
• Meanwhile, heat 1/2 c. vegetable oil in a large skillet until very hot.
• Add corn tortillas, one at a time. Fry on one side for 30 seconds, then flip and fold into a U-shape. Continue frying for another 30 seconds.
• Remove hard taco shell from oil and drain on a paper towel. Immediately season with salt.
• To assemble tacos, divide meat mixture into hard shells and top with cheese, guacamole, and tomatoes.***
• Serve with Mexican rice or beans for a complete meal.

Makes six - eight tacos
*I use the spice packet in Near East Spanish Rice Pilaf.
**From one can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
***Use whatever toppings you like.