Taco Bowls Recipe

Taco bowls are a delightfully customizable meal that can cater to various dietary preferences. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients and packs a punch of flavor, from the spiced ground turkey to the fresh pico de gallo and creamy avocado. The base of riced cauliflower adds a nutritious twist, making it a lighter alternative to traditional taco bowls.

Photos of Taco Bowls Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are likely to be found in your pantry. However, riced cauliflower might not be readily available in all homes. It's simply cauliflower pulsed in a food processor until it resembles rice. It's become popular as a low-carb alternative to rice and can usually be found in the frozen section of your supermarket. If you can't find it, you can make it at home using a regular head of cauliflower.

Ingredients for the Taco Bowls

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and turkey, adding a rich taste.

Garlic: Adds a subtle spicy, sweet flavor to the dish.

Ground turkey: A lean, high protein meat base for the tacos.

Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavors.

Chili powder: Gives the turkey a spicy kick.

Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

Cayenne pepper: Adds heat to the dish.

Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the turkey.

Tomato sauce: Adds tanginess and depth to the turkey filling.

Riced cauliflower: A low-carb substitute for traditional rice.

Corn: Adds sweetness and texture.

Mexican blend cheese: Melty and full of flavor, perfect for topping the bowls.

Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa that adds a refreshing element.

Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Cilantro: Fresh and vibrant, adds a pop of color and flavor.

Lime slices: Adds a tart, tangy flavor when squeezed on top.

One reader, Christoph Lai says:

This taco bowls recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible and the dish is so versatile. I love how easy it is to customize with different toppings. It's become a family favorite and a go-to for gatherings. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to traditional tacos. Highly recommend trying it out!

Christoph Lai

Essential Techniques for Making Taco Bowls

How to sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.

How to cook ground turkey: In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon and turning occasionally, until it is no longer pink and fully cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes.

How to season the turkey: Lightly season the ground turkey with salt and black pepper, using about ¼ teaspoon of each. Adjust the seasoning to taste at the end of cooking.

How to make taco seasoning: Add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the cooked turkey, and cook for about 20 seconds to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.

How to make the taco sauce: Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce to the skillet with the turkey, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.

How to assemble taco bowls: Divide the riced cauliflower among serving bowls, then top with the cooked turkey mixture, corn, Mexican blend cheese, avocado slices, pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for spritzing before enjoying.

How To Make Taco Bowls

Full of veggies and lean protein, these taco bowls serve a fiesta of Mexican flavors with ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and corn in one filling bowl.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Taco Filling:

1tbspolive oil
2clovesgarlic,(2 tsp) minced
1lbground turkey,93% lean
salt and black pepper,freshly ground
1tbspchili powder,preferably ½ tbsp regular and ½ tbsp ancho chili powder
1½tspcumin,ground
⅛tspcayenne pepper,optional
½cupchicken broth,low sodium
½cuptomato sauce

For Bowls:

12ozriced cauliflower,(2 bags) cooked according to package instructions
1cupcorn,frozen, cooked according to package instructions, optional
¾cupMexican blend cheese,shredded
1cuppico de gallo,homemade or store bought
1avocado,sliced
cilantro,fresh, optional
lime slices,optional

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and saute for 10 seconds, then add turkey and season lightly with ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, add more at the end as desired.
Cook, turning and breaking up turkey occasionally for 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through.
Add in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper and cook for 20 seconds longer while tossing.
Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, bring to a simmer then reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce has reduced.
To assemble bowls divide rice cauliflower among bowls, top with turkey mixture, corn, cheese, avocados, pico, cilantro, and limes for spritzing.
Serve and enjoy.

Recipe Notes

For homemade pico de gallo, in a bowl, toss together 3 diced Roma tomatoes, ¼ cup diced yellow onion, 1 small minced garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of minced cilantro, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 461.16kcal
Fat: 27.15g
Saturated Fat: 7.83g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.47g
Carbohydrates: 27.97g
Fiber: 7.74g
Sugar: 10.40g
Protein: 32.98g
Cholesterol: 99.09mg
Sodium: 1048.98mg
Calcium: 218.77mg
Potassium: 1113.37mg
Iron: 3.71mg
Vitamin A: 119.88µg
Vitamin C: 56.94mg

Key Technique for Perfecting Your Taco Bowls

When cooking the ground turkey, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This ensures that the turkey cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper more effectively. Additionally, when simmering the turkey with the chicken broth and tomato sauce, keep a close eye on the pan to prevent the sauce from reducing too much, which could result in a dry taco filling.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Taco Bowls

Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the recipe and store the extra portions for future quick and easy meals.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets such as food processors, slow cookers, or instant pots to expedite the cooking process.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking utensils, saving time during meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Taco Bowls Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and flavor profile to olive oil, making it a suitable substitute for sautéing the taco filling.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a lean alternative to ground turkey, providing a similar texture and flavor in the taco filling.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth to create a vegetarian version of the taco filling without compromising on flavor.
riced cauliflower - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a grain substitute for riced cauliflower, adding a nutty flavor and protein to the taco bowls.
mexican blend cheese - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco offers a crumbly texture and a mild, tangy flavor that complements the taco filling, serving as a substitute for Mexican blend cheese.
pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa verde: Salsa verde can be used as a flavorful alternative to pico de gallo, adding a tangy and slightly spicy element to the taco bowls.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can replace sliced avocado, providing a creamy and flavorful topping for the taco bowls.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, offering a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the taco bowls.
lime slices - Substitute with lemon slices: Lemon slices can be used in place of lime slices to add a citrusy zing to the taco bowls.

How to Beautifully Present Your Taco Bowls

Elevate the taco filling: Create a perfectly seasoned and juicy turkey filling by using high-quality ground turkey and enhancing the flavors with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Ensure the texture is just right and the flavors are well-balanced.
Craft the perfect taco bowl: Instead of traditional rice, use riced cauliflower as the base for the taco bowl. This not only adds a healthy twist but also provides a wonderful texture that complements the filling.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce a pop of color to the dish by adding vibrant pico de gallo and fresh avocado. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring a burst of fresh flavors to the dish.
Artful arrangement: Pay attention to the arrangement of the components in the bowl. Layer the ingredients thoughtfully, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully and contributes to the overall presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Add a finishing touch by garnishing the taco bowl with a sprinkle of cilantro and a few slices of lime. These final touches not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of freshness to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making the Perfect Taco Bowls

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Non-stick skillet: A skillet with a non-stick coating to prevent food from sticking to the surface.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and flipping ingredients.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing them together.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soups and stews.
Tongs: Kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
Citrus juicer: A tool designed to extract juice from citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges.
Garlic press: A kitchen tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining liquids from food.
Meat thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of cooked meat to ensure it is safe to eat.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Stove: A cooking appliance with burners used for heating and cooking food in pots and pans.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Cutting knife: A sharp knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients.
Cheese grater: A tool specifically designed for grating cheese into fine pieces.
Avocado slicer: A tool used to cut, pit, and slice avocados easily and efficiently.
Lime squeezer: A handheld tool used to extract juice from limes.
Microplane: A kitchen tool used for grating and zesting ingredients such as citrus, ginger, and hard cheeses.

Storing and Freezing Taco Bowls: A Guide

To store leftover taco bowls, allow the components to cool completely before transferring them to separate airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to enjoy, reheat the taco filling in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Assemble the bowls with fresh riced cauliflower, corn, cheese, pico de gallo, and avocado.
For longer storage, you can freeze the taco filling for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
To thaw, place the frozen taco filling in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
It's best to store the riced cauliflower, corn, cheese, pico de gallo, and avocado separately in the refrigerator and assemble the bowls when ready to serve for optimal freshness and texture.
If you have leftover avocado, sprinkle it with some lime juice or store it with the pit to prevent browning. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for 1-2 days.

How To Reheat Leftover Taco Bowls

Reheat the taco filling in a skillet over medium heat until it's hot and steaming. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even heating. This method will help maintain the texture and flavor of the meat.
For the riced cauliflower, you can either reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet. If using the microwave, place the cauliflower in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it for 1-2 minutes or until warm. If using a skillet, sauté the cauliflower over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until heated through.
If you have any leftover corn, you can reheat it in the microwave or in a small pot on the stove. For the microwave, place the corn in a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 30-60 seconds or until warm. On the stove, add the corn to a small pot and heat it over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
To melt the cheese, sprinkle it over the warm taco filling and let it sit for a minute or two until it's melted and gooey.
Prepare fresh toppings like pico de gallo, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro to add a burst of freshness to your reheated taco bowls.
Assemble the reheated components in a bowl, starting with the riced cauliflower, followed by the taco filling, corn, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.
Squeeze a little lime juice over the top of your taco bowl to brighten up the flavors and enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Interesting Fact About Taco Bowls

The taco bowl recipe is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different dietary preferences and tastes. It can easily be made vegetarian by substituting the ground turkey with plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. Additionally, the riced cauliflower used in the recipe is a low-carb alternative to traditional rice, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet. This dish is also a great way to incorporate a variety of nutritious ingredients such as avocado, corn, and pico de gallo, providing a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Is Making Taco Bowls at Home Cost-Effective?

This taco bowls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey is an affordable and lean protein option, and cauliflower rice is a budget-friendly alternative to regular rice. The addition of corn and avocado provides essential nutrients at a reasonable cost. The total approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall, this recipe offers a balanced blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical choice for a family meal. Verdict: 9/10

Are Taco Bowls Healthy or Unhealthy?

The taco bowls recipe is a relatively healthy option, offering a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains. The use of ground turkey provides a lean source of protein, while the riced cauliflower serves as a low-carb alternative to traditional rice. The inclusion of avocado and pico de gallo adds healthy fats and fresh vegetables to the dish. However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to enhance its nutritional value:

Swap the chicken broth for a low-sodium version to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding more riced cauliflower or incorporating additional veggies like bell peppers, onions, or lettuce.
Use a reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of full-fat cheese to lower the saturated fat content.
Opt for whole corn kernels instead of processed corn products to increase the fiber content.

To further elevate the healthiness of this taco bowl recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate additional spices and herbs, such as oregano or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt.
Serve the taco bowls with a side of leafy greens, such as spinach or mixed greens, to boost the nutrient density of the meal.
Prepare a homemade salsa or guacamole using fresh ingredients to avoid added sugars and preservatives found in store-bought varieties.
Experiment with different lean protein sources, such as shredded chicken or tofu, to vary the nutrient profile of the dish.
Offer whole grain tortillas or taco shells as an optional side for those who prefer a more traditional taco experience while still maintaining a balanced meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Taco Bowl Recipe

This taco bowl recipe is a delightful twist on traditional tacos. The use of riced cauliflower as a base adds a healthy and low-carb alternative to the classic taco shell. The seasoned ground turkey filling is flavorful and satisfying, and the addition of corn, cheese, avocado, pico de gallo, and cilantro provides a burst of fresh and vibrant flavors. The balance of textures and flavors in this dish is impressive, and the presentation in individual bowls makes for a visually appealing and convenient meal. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and nutritious take on a beloved Mexican dish.

Enhance Your Taco Bowls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole to accompany the taco bowls, with ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a hint of cilantro.

Mango salsa: Whip up a refreshing and sweet mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, and a splash of lime juice to add a tropical twist to the taco bowls.

Churros: Finish off the meal with a sweet and crispy churros for a delightful dessert that complements the savory flavors of the taco bowls.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Taco Bowls

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Mango Chicken Salad: Combine juicy mangoes with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast the butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness, then blend it with warm spices for a comforting and creamy soup.

Berry Crisp: Top a medley of fresh berries with a crunchy oat and almond topping, then bake until golden and bubbly for a delightful dessert.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Sauté plump shrimp with garlic and lemon zest, then toss with al dente pasta and fresh herbs for a quick and flavorful meal.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Taco Bowl Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. These colorful skewers are a refreshing and light start to any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate from the center. The contrast between the moist cake and the molten chocolate center creates a truly irresistible dessert experience.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with a classic tiramisu, featuring layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with a creamy mascarpone mixture. The dusting of cocoa powder on top adds a hint of bitterness to balance out the sweetness.

Why trust this Taco Bowls Recipe:

This taco bowls recipe offers a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite. The use of ground turkey makes it a lean and protein-packed option, while the incorporation of cauliflower rice adds a low-carb alternative. The blend of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper creates a flavorful and aromatic taco filling. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh pico de gallo and creamy avocado enhances the dish with vibrant colors and textures. With these wholesome ingredients, this recipe provides a trustworthy and satisfying meal option.

Share your thoughts on the Taco Bowls Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even better!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for ground turkey?

You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, ground beef, or even plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

Can I use regular rice instead of riced cauliflower?

Yes, you can definitely use regular rice instead of riced cauliflower. Just cook the rice according to the package instructions and use it as a base for your taco bowls.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you prefer a spicier taco filling, you can increase the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper in the recipe. You can also add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.

Can I prepare the taco filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the taco filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the filling on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What other toppings can I add to the taco bowls?

You can customize your taco bowls with a variety of toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, sour cream, salsa, or even a dollop of guacamole. Get creative and add your favorite Tex-Mex flavors to make the taco bowls your own!