Smashed Turkey Tacos
Squadies! I am so excited to share these smashed Turkey Tacos with you because honestly, they are insanely good and most importantly also super easy to make! Brodie and I love these because it’s such a simple, easy healthy meal to make even when the kids are running around.
This dish is not only great for a busy weeknight dinner but also ideal for weekend gatherings with friends and family. The crispy turkey patties pressed into flour tortillas, topped with fresh ingredients like corn, onion, and feta, create a flavor explosion in every bite. And don’t forget the optional creamy jalapeño sauce for that extra kick! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it according to your taste preferences.
Whether you're a parent trying to keep dinner quick and nutritious or just looking for a new spin on taco night, these Smashed Turkey Tacos are here to save the day. By using lean ground turkey, you’re not only making a healthier choice but also ensuring that every bite is packed with flavour. This recipe is all about enjoying the best of both worlds: delicious and satisfying food that fits right into a balanced diet.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 tacos
Leangredients
For the Tacos:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground turkey (Lean ground turkey is a great source of protein and essential vitamins. It’s packed with nutrients while keeping the calorie count in check. You can swap it out for chicken or beef if you’d like!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of the turkey patties)
- 6 taco-sized flour tortillas: These provide the perfect base for our smashed turkey patties and toppings.
- Cooking spray
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup corn kernels (Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (Provides a bit of sharpness and texture)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (Brings a creamy, tangy flavor that compliments the turkey)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (Fresh and fragrant, cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous flavo)
- Creamy Jalapeño Sauce (optional: Adds a creamy, spicy kick that elevates the taco experience.)
- Your favorite hot sauce (optional: For an extra layer of heat and flavor.)
Leanstructions
1. Cook the Turkey Patties:
- Start by rolling the ground turkey into medium-sized balls. Season each ball with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a griddle or large skillet over high heat. If you don’t have a griddle, a stovetop pan works just as well. The key is to get the pan really hot so the patties can develop a nice sear.
- Spray your griddle or stovetop with cooking spray and then place the patties on the griddle or skillet. Leave for about 20 seconds then place a flour tortilla directly on top of each patty. Press down firmly to ensure the tortilla makes good contact with the patty (you want your smashed tacos nice and thin and to cover almost the entire tortilla).
- After 2-3 minutes, flip the tortilla (with the patty) over, pressing down with a spatula to cook the other side of the patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the patty is fully cooked and the tortilla is crispy (make sure you monitor the tortilla so it doesn't get too crispy).
2. Assemble the Tacos:
- Once the patties on the tortillas are cooked it’s time to assemble the tacos. Place each cooked turkey patty (with the tortilla) on a plate.
- Top with corn kernels, chopped onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro. These ingredients add a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
- If you’re using the optional creamy jalapeño sauce, drizzle it over the toppings. Add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick if desired.
Optional Creamy Jalapeño Sauce:
If you want to take your tacos to the next level, this creamy jalapeño sauce is a must-try. It adds a rich, spicy flavor that complements the lean turkey perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup cilantro leaves (large stems removed)
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños
- 2 tablespoons juice from pickled jalapeños
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 heaping tablespoon dry ranch seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh)
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, purée cilantro leaves with pickled jalapeños and their juice until finely minced.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well to combine.
3. Stir in the cilantro mixture and lime juice. If the sauce is too thick, add buttermilk a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
These Smashed Turkey Tacos are not just about flavour; they also offer a healthier twist on a classic dish. The lean ground turkey provides a high protein content without excessive fat, and the fresh toppings add essential vitamins and minerals. Whether you're serving them for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your meal light and nutritious.
Enjoy these tasty tacos and let them bring a new level of excitement to your taco nights!
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