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Crispy Baked Ground Turkey Tacos with Cilantro Lime Ranch Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 39 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 tacos (serves 12)
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Enjoy crispy baked ground turkey tacos that combine flavorful seasoned turkey with refried black beans and melted cheese, all wrapped in crispy corn tortillas. These tacos are baked to perfection and served with a refreshing cilantro lime ranch dressing, making for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Turkey Filling

  • 1 pound 90/10 ground turkey
  • 4 tablespoons avocado oil (divided)
  • ½ small sweet onion (finely diced)
  • 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup refried black beans
  • 2 ½ cups shredded cheese (divided)

Tortillas and Toppings

  • 12 corn tortillas
  • ¼ cup ranch dressing
  • 1 ½ tablespoons lime juice (from 1 lime)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for serving)
  • Pico de Gallo (for serving)
  • Guacamole (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to prepare for baking the tacos crisp and golden.
  2. Cook the Meat: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and diced sweet onion. Cook while breaking the turkey apart with a spoon for 7-8 minutes, or until the turkey is no longer pink. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Season the Filling: Stir in the taco seasoning, chicken broth (or water), salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 4-5 minutes until most liquid evaporates. Then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and well combined. Remove from heat.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 45-60 seconds to soften and make them pliable for folding.
  5. Fill the Tacos: Brush one side of each tortilla with 1 teaspoon of avocado oil. Flip the tortillas over and spread 1 tablespoon of refried black beans onto one half of the unbrushed side. Top with 2 tablespoons of turkey filling and 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese. Carefully fold the tortilla over the filling and gently press to seal without cracking.
  6. Bake in Oven: Arrange the filled tortillas in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to crisp both sides evenly.
  7. Make the Cilantro Lime Ranch: While tacos bake, whisk together ranch dressing, lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a medium bowl until smooth and well blended.
  8. Serve: Serve the crispy baked tacos topped with cilantro lime ranch dressing and garnish with extra fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, and guacamole as desired.

Notes

  • Use a 90/10 ground turkey for optimal moisture without excess fat.
  • Microwaving the tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel makes them easier to fold without cracking.
  • Flipping the tacos halfway through baking helps create an evenly crispy texture on both sides.
  • Customize toppings with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or extra cheese.
  • This recipe makes 12 tacos, perfect for a crowd or meal prep.