Crispy Baked Ground Turkey & Black Bean Tacos
Description
These tacos are a perfect weeknight meal—packed with lean ground turkey, protein-rich black beans, and flavorful spices. Baking the tacos instead of frying makes them lighter but still wonderfully crispy. Top them with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cheese for a satisfying, nutritious meal that even picky eaters love. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
For the filling:
1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup water
For the tacos:
8 small corn or flour tortillas
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil
Optional toppings:
Avocado slices or guacamole
Salsa or pico de gallo
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Instructions
1. Prepare the filling
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if needed.
Sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Add black beans, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
2. Assemble the tacos
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly spray or brush each tortilla with olive oil.
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the turkey and black bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
Fold the tortillas in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes until tortillas are golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Optionally, flip halfway through for extra crispiness.
4. Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for 1–2 minutes.
Top with your favorite toppings: avocado, salsa, cilantro, lime juice, or a dollop of sour cream.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Tips & Variations
Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
Cheese-free option: Use avocado and salsa only.
Meal prep: Prepare filling ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bake tacos fresh when ready.
Gluten-free: Use corn tortillas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and store in an airtight container. Assemble and bake tacos just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze these tacos?
A: You can freeze the cooked filling, but tacos are best baked fresh. Freezing assembled tacos may make the tortillas soggy.
Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken works perfectly with the same seasonings and bake time.
Q: Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace ground turkey with extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
Q: How can I make them extra crispy?
A: Brush the tortillas lightly with oil and bake on a wire rack to allow air circulation. Flip halfway through for even crispiness.