Print

Family-Friendly Meal Ideas: Delicious Recipes for Every Night of the Week

These flavorful beef or turkey tacos are loaded with black beans, corn, and spices, making them a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering. Customize with your favorite toppings for a delicious meal everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • 1 package of taco shells or tortillas

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  5. Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Mix everything well to combine.
  6. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
  7. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. While the filling is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re using hard taco shells. If you’re using soft tortillas, you can skip this step.
  9. Arrange the taco shells on a baking sheet. If you’re using soft tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable.
  10. Once the oven is preheated, bake the taco shells for about 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
  11. Once the filling is ready and the taco shells are baked, spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture into each taco shell.
  12. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the filling while it’s still hot, so it melts slightly.
  13. Add a dollop of sour cream on top of the cheese for extra creaminess, if desired.
  14. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.
  15. Repeat the process until all the taco shells are filled. Serve immediately or keep warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Serve with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal.
  • Offer a variety of toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, jalapeños, or sliced olives for customization.
  • Pair with homemade lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink.