Moms Taco Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a homemade taco night! This Moms Taco Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cherished family tradition that brings everyone together around the dinner table. The combination of seasoned ground turkey and beef, mixed with flavorful spices, creates a delightful filling that perfectly complements warm tortillas and your favorite toppings. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress your guests. Let’s dive into why this recipe holds a special place in my heart and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen!
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about taco night. The aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen, the sound of tortillas sizzling on the stovetop, and the joy of customizing each taco with your favorite toppings make it a delightful experience. This Moms Taco Recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows for creativity. You can mix and match ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, and the leftovers (if there are any!) make for a great next-day lunch. It’s a recipe that brings happiness and satisfaction, making it a staple in our weekly rotation.
What Goes Into Moms Taco Recipe
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and adding a rich flavor.
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the taco filling.
- 1 pound ground turkey: A healthier alternative to beef, providing lean protein.
- 1 pound ground beef: For that classic taco flavor and richness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: The cornerstone of the taco’s flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder: Adds warmth and earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste of the filling.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: A herb that complements the other spices beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a slight kick to the filling.
- One 15.5-ounce can chili beans: Adds heartiness and additional texture.
- One 10-ounce can Ro-Tel (tomatoes & chiles): Provides moisture and a bit of heat.
- 12 corn tortillas: The perfect vessel for your delicious taco filling.
- Desired taco fixings: Lettuce, tomato, sour cream, avocado, cheese, and more!
Recommended Tools
- Large skillet: For cooking the meat and onions evenly.
- Wooden spoon: To stir and break up the ground meat as it cooks.
- Canning jar or small bowl: For mixing spices before adding them to the filling.
- Tongs: For flipping and serving warm tortillas.
Moms Taco Recipe: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped sweet onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your taco filling.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Add the ground turkey and ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat while it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Once the meat is cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the spices into the meat mixture and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the spices to bloom and deepen in flavor.
Step 4: Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes
Add the drained chili beans and the can of Ro-Tel to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Prepare the Tortillas
While the filling simmers, warm your corn tortillas. You can either fry them lightly in a separate skillet or warm them directly over a low flame until pliable.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
To serve, spoon the meat mixture into the warmed tortillas. Top with your desired taco fixings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, dollops of sour cream, slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese.
Ingredient Flex Options
- Ground turkey: Substitute with chicken or a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor.
- Chili beans: You can use black beans or kidney beans instead, depending on your preference.
- Ro-Tel: If you can’t find Ro-Tel, diced tomatoes with green chiles work just as well.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used for a softer texture.
What Could Go Wrong
- Overcooking the meat: If you cook the meat too long, it can become dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Spice imbalance: Taste the mixture as you go. If it’s too spicy, add a little more salt or sugar to balance it out.
- Cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can lead to a less enjoyable taco experience. Always warm them just before serving!
Prep Ahead & Store
If you’re looking to save time, you can prepare the taco filling ahead of time. Simply follow the steps through to mixing in the beans and tomatoes, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the filling on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier!
Moms Taco Recipe Q&A
Can I make this taco filling vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground turkey and beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply use more beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
What can I serve with these tacos?
These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve chips and salsa for a fun appetizer!
How do I store leftover taco filling?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I freeze the taco filling?
Yes! You can freeze the taco filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Make It Tonight
There’s no better time than now to gather your loved ones and make this Moms Taco Recipe. With its rich flavors and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are perfect for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, get into the kitchen, and enjoy a night filled with laughter, good food, and great company. You won’t regret it!
Moms Taco Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey and ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat while cooking until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the drained chili beans and the can of Ro-Tel. Stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Warm the corn tortillas either by frying them in a skillet or warming them over a low flame until pliable.
- Spoon the meat mixture into the warmed tortillas and top with desired fixings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, and cheese.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey with chicken or plant-based alternatives.
- Use black beans or kidney beans instead of chili beans if preferred.
- Ro-Tel can be replaced with diced tomatoes and green chiles.
- Flour tortillas can be used for a softer texture.
- Always warm your tortillas just before serving for the best experience!
