These fun stuffed avocado taco boats are a tasty twist on your usual tacos! With creamy avocados holding a flavorful filling, they’ll make your meal exciting and fresh.
Just imagine scooping up every delicious bite! I love how easy they are to make and enjoy. Perfect for a light lunch or quick dinner that feels like a fiesta! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when squeezed. If you can’t find any, you can use other boats like bell peppers or zucchini for a different flavor and texture.
Ground Beef/Turkey: Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef, but feel free to use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option! It’s just as flavorful when seasoned well.
Taco Seasoning: If you’re low on taco seasoning, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano instead. This gives a similar taste without needing a store-bought pack.
Cilantro: I love the freshness cilantro provides, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions work well too. You can even skip it if you prefer!
How Do You Properly Scoop Avocados for Taco Boats?
Scooping avocados effectively ensures they hold their shape while maximizing filling space. Here’s the trick:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the avocado in half and twist to separate the halves.
- Carefully remove the pit using a spoon or by tapping with a knife’s blade (being cautious!).
- With a spoon, gently scoop out some avocado flesh while leaving enough to keep the skin sturdy.
- Chop the scooped avocado for mixing into your filling; this adds creaminess and flavor.
Just be patient and gentle, and you’ll have perfect avocado boats ready for stuffing! Enjoy getting creative with your fillings!
Stuffed Avocado Taco Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Avocado Boats:
- 2 large ripe avocados, halved and pitted
For the Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
For the Toppings:
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: diced jalapeño, crumbled cotija or feta cheese, sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stuffed avocado taco boats recipe will take about 20-25 minutes in total, including 10-15 minutes for preparation and around 10 minutes for cooking in the oven. It’s quick and perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the avocado boats once they’re prepared.
2. Prepare the Avocados:
Carefully scoop out some avocado flesh from each half, leaving a sturdy border so the skins hold their shape. You can dice the removed avocado flesh and set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Onions:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
5. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook the meat until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season the Filling:
Stir in the taco seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Mix in Avocado and Cilantro:
Take the skillet off the heat and gently stir in some of the diced avocado and half of the chopped cilantro.
8. Fill the Avocado Boats:
Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet. Fill each half generously with the seasoned beef mixture.
9. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filling for some extra cheesiness!
10. Bake:
Pop the filled avocado boats into the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and the avocados are warmed through.
11. Top with Fresh Ingredients:
When they’re done, take the taco boats out of the oven and top with diced tomato, any remaining diced avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
12. Garnish and Serve:
Feel free to garnish with optional toppings like diced jalapeños, crumbled cotija or feta cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately!
Enjoy your delicious, fresh, and flavorful stuffed avocado taco boats! They’re a fantastic blend of creamy avocado and seasoned meat, perfect for a low-carb meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives to beef. You can also use plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the seasoning is well balanced to enhance the flavors.
What Can I Do With Leftover Filling?
If you have leftover filling, it stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can use it in tacos, burritos, or as a topping for salads. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to use it!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble and bake the avocado boats when you’re ready to serve! Keep the avocados whole until you’re ready to bake to prevent browning.
How Do I Store Leftover Avocado Boats?
Leftovers can be tricky, but you can store any uneaten stuffed avocado boats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, the avocado may brown slightly. To enjoy them again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but keep in mind the texture may change a bit.
