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Easy Crockpot Ground Turkey Taco Meat for Meal Prep

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This easy crockpot ground turkey taco meat for meal prep is a no-fuss method that delivers tender, perfectly seasoned turkey every time. Just dump the ingredients in the slow cooker and walk away for a flavorful, versatile meal prep staple.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (907 grams) ground turkey (93/7 lean)
  • 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (4 ounces or 113 grams) diced green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • For homemade taco seasoning (optional):
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep the aromatics: Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. Make the taco seasoning (if using homemade): In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Layer the ingredients in the crockpot: Spread the diced onion and minced garlic evenly across the bottom. Place the ground turkey on top, breaking it into large chunks.
  4. Add the seasonings and liquids: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the turkey. Drop spoonfuls of tomato paste on top. Pour chicken broth around the edges of the meat. Add the diced green chiles.
  5. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
  6. Break up the meat halfway through: About 2 hours in (or 1 hour on high), use a wooden spoon to break the turkey into smaller crumbles. Stir everything together.
  7. Finish cooking and adjust seasoning: When done, stir and taste. Add more salt, lime juice, or cayenne if desired.
  8. Drain excess liquid (optional): Use a slotted spoon to transfer meat to a bowl, or spoon out excess liquid. Leave a little for moisture.

Notes

Don’t brown the meat first—it stays tender. Use 93/7 lean turkey for best moisture. Don’t peek too often. Adjust liquid based on your crockpot. For spicier version, add chopped chipotle peppers. For milder, skip green chiles. Can use ground beef or shredded chicken. Add beans during last 30 minutes if desired. Leftovers keep in fridge up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot ground turkey taco meat, meal prep, slow cooker taco meat, ground turkey recipe, easy taco meat