Taco Tomatoes Recipe

This simple recipe creates a fresh and satisfying meal that’s a perfect twist on taco night. These Taco Tomatoes are a low-carb alternative to traditional tacos, using juicy tomatoes as a vibrant, edible bowl. The recipe uses seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, and a generous topping of shredded cheese and sour cream. This dish is perfect for a light summer dinner or a fun, customizable lunch, with a recipe that serves four people.

Taco Tomatoes Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes, such as beefsteak or vine-ripened
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 cup shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Optional toppings: diced onion, salsa, jalapeños, cilantro, avocado

How To Make Taco Tomatoes

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Place the tomatoes stem-side down on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut four to six wedges into the top of each tomato, without slicing all the way through to the bottom. Gently pull the wedges apart to create a flower-like shape and make space for the filling.
2. Cook the taco meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef: Add the taco seasoning packet and the amount of water specified on the packet to the skillet. Stir to combine, then cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meat is well-coated.
4. Assemble the “tacos”: Place the opened tomatoes on a plate or serving platter. Place a layer of shredded lettuce at the bottom of each tomato. Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly into each tomato cavity.
5. Add toppings and serve: Top the meat with the shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and any other desired toppings like diced onion or salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Choose the right tomatoes: For this recipe, it’s essential to use large, firm tomatoes like beefsteak or hothouse varieties. Smaller or softer tomatoes won’t hold the filling as well.
• Drain the meat well: Draining the excess fat from the ground beef before adding the seasoning prevents the final dish from being greasy.
• Keep the tomatoes fresh: Since the tomatoes are raw, it’s best to prepare and serve this dish right away for the freshest, crispest texture.
• Customize your toppings: This recipe is a great blank canvas. Feel free to add your favorite taco fillings like black beans, corn, guacamole, or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.

What To Serve Taco Tomatoes

Taco Tomatoes are a complete and satisfying meal on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. For a classic Mexican-inspired feast, serve them with a side of Spanish rice or homemade refried beans. You could also offer a simple side salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors. For those who like a little crunch, a side of corn chips with salsa or guacamole is a perfect pairing.

How To Store Taco Tomatoes Leftovers

• Since this recipe is best served fresh, storing leftovers can be tricky.
• Refrigerate: If you have leftover filling, store it separately from the tomatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The assembled tomatoes do not store well as the tomatoes will become soggy.
• Freeze: Freezing is not recommended for the assembled dish. However, you can freeze leftover cooked and seasoned ground beef in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Taco Tomatoes Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 204 kcal
• Total Fat: 9.2g
• Saturated Fat: 4.6g
• Cholesterol: 58.8mg
• Sodium: 187.8mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 10.2g
• Dietary Fiber: 2.8g
• Sugars: 6.1g
• Protein: 20.9g

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Cook and season the meat the same way as the recipe instructions. This is a great way to make the dish even lighter.
• Do I need to bake the tomatoes? No, this recipe uses fresh, raw tomatoes. There is no baking required. The dish is meant to be a cool, fresh alternative to baked stuffed tomatoes, making it a quick and easy option.
• Why did my tomatoes fall apart? The most common reason for this is cutting too far down into the tomato. Make sure to only slice through the top and gently pull the wedges apart. Using a firm, large tomato variety also helps them hold their shape.
• Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the taco meat filling a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble the tomatoes right before you plan to eat them to prevent the tomato from becoming watery and the lettuce from wilting.

Try More Recipes:

• Tamale Pie Recipe
• Tangy Tomato Brisket Recipe
• Tapenade Crostini Recipe