Indulge in the savory goodness of Low Carb Taco Tomatoes, a delicious twist on traditional tacos that’s perfect for those looking to cut back on carbs without sacrificing flavor. Bursting with Mexican-inspired spices and topped with creamy yogurt or sour cream, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we explore how to create this satisfying dish, along with some helpful tips, variations, and keto-friendly alternatives.
Ingredients:
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 1-oz packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 large beefsteak tomatoes
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup whole milk yogurt or sour cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Slice off the tops of the tomatoes and hollow out the centers using a spoon, removing the seeds and pulp. Sprinkle the insides of the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and set aside.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Season the Filling:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning and garlic powder over the cooked beef mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.
- Stuff the Tomatoes:
- Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into the hollowed-out tomatoes, dividing it evenly among them. Press down gently to compact the filling.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend over the tops of the stuffed tomatoes, covering the filling completely.
- Bake Until Cheese is Melted:
- Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the stuffed tomatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top each tomato with shredded lettuce and a dollop of whole milk yogurt or sour cream before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Tomato Selection: Choose large, firm beefsteak tomatoes for the best results. You can also use heirloom tomatoes or even bell peppers as a creative alternative.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings to the beef mixture, such as diced bell peppers, black olives, or jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with cooked quinoa or black beans for a meatless version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these tomatoes ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these tomatoes? A: While these tomatoes can be frozen, the texture of the tomatoes may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture.
Q: How can I make this dish keto-friendly? A: To make a keto-friendly version, omit the tomatoes and serve the seasoned beef mixture in lettuce cups or over a bed of shredded lettuce.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Adjust the seasoning to taste as needed.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Keto Version: Omit the tomatoes and serve the seasoned beef mixture in lettuce cups or over a bed of shredded lettuce. Use full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream as a topping.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto version adjustments above and use a low-carb cheese blend or omit the cheese entirely for an even lower carb count.
With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, Low Carb Taco Tomatoes offer a delicious alternative to traditional tacos while keeping things light on the carbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer for your next gathering, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to please. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavorful twist on taco night that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!