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ground turkey tacos with corn tortillas

Irresistible Ground Turkey Tacos with Corn Tortillas

Delicious Irresistible Ground Turkey Tacos with Corn Tortillas recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 1425 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the ground turkey::

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey (I prefer Butterball for a leaner, cleaner taste)
  • 3/4 tsp cumin
  • 3/4 tsp chili powder
  • 3/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup tomatillo salsa (I use Herdez for its authentic roasted flavor)

For the corn salsa::

  • 1.5 cups corn
  • 1/4 red onion (finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
  • 1.5 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed for better acidity)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup cilantro
  • 1/4 tsp sugar

For serving::

  • 8 corn tortillas (heated on a griddle until charred and pliable)
  • guacamole
  • tomato salsa
  • hot sauce

Instructions
 

  • While you're getting organized, combine the corn, finely diced red onion, freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and cilantro in a bowl. Toss gently to combine and set aside at room temperature—this allows the flavors to meld while you cook the turkey. I like to prepare this first because it requires no heat and gives the corn salad time to develop flavor without any time pressure.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground turkey and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring frequently to ensure even browning. After about 2-3 minutes when the turkey is mostly cooked through and starting to brown, add the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices and distribute them evenly—you'll notice the aroma intensify as the spices bloom in the oil and turkey fat. I find that adding the spices halfway through cooking rather than at the start allows them to toast better and prevents them from becoming bitter.
  • Add the tomatillo salsa to the cooked turkey and stir to combine, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to warm through and marry the flavors. The salsa will add moisture and brightness to the turkey while helping distribute its authentic roasted flavor throughout.
  • While the turkey finishes, heat your tortillas on a griddle, cast iron skillet, or directly over a gas flame over medium-high heat. Char them for about 30-45 seconds per side until they're warm, pliable, and have light charred spots—this adds depth of flavor and makes them less likely to tear. Stack the finished tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft while you assemble.
  • Place a warm charred tortilla on a plate, spoon a generous portion of the turkey mixture down the center, then top with a heaping spoonful of the corn salad from Step 1. Add guacamole, tomato salsa, and hot sauce to taste. Serve immediately while the tortillas are still warm.