Save When you are craving Mexican flavors but want to keep things low-carb and keto-friendly, these stuffed avocados are the perfect solution. Imagine creamy, buttery avocado halves serving as the edible bowl for savory, spiced ground beef, topped with fresh salsa and a cooling dollop of sour cream. It is a vibrant dish that brings together heat, zest, and rich textures in every single bite, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Save This dish is not only a nutritional powerhouse but also a visual treat. The bright green of the avocado contrasts beautifully with the deep reds of the salsa and the golden melted cheese. By using the avocado shell as a natural bowl, you minimize cleanup while maximizing flavor, as the heat from the taco beef slightly warms the avocado, enhancing its natural creaminess.
Ingredients
- Meats: 250 g (9 oz) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- Vegetables: 2 large ripe avocados (halved and pitted), 1 small tomato (diced), 1/4 small red onion (finely chopped), 1 small jalapeño (seeded and minced, optional), 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped), 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 lime (juiced)
- Dairy: 80 g (1/3 cup) sour cream, 60 g (1/2 cup) shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Oils: 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Salsa
- In a small bowl, combine the diced tomato, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, cilantro, half of the lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the Spices
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- Step 4: Prepare the Avocado Boats
- Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out a small amount of the flesh to create a larger cavity for the filling, making sure to reserve the scooped-out pieces.
- Step 5: Enhance the Salsa
- Dice the reserved avocado flesh and gently fold it into the prepared salsa mixture.
- Step 6: Prevent Browning
- Squeeze the remaining lime juice over the avocado halves to keep them green and vibrant.
- Step 7: Stuff and Melt
- Divide the seasoned taco meat evenly among the avocado halves. Sprinkle the cheese over the top while the meat is still warm so it melts slightly.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Spoon the salsa over each stuffed avocado and add a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure your avocados are ripe but still hold their shape. The lime juice step is essential—not only does it add a necessary acidic zing to balance the richness of the beef, but it also prevents the avocado from oxidizing and turning brown if you aren't eating them the very second they are prepared. If you want the cheese extra melty, you can pop the stuffed halves under a broiler for 60 seconds.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your preferences or what you have in your fridge. If you prefer a leaner protein, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For those following a dairy-free diet, simply omit the cheddar cheese and use a plant-based sour cream alternative or an extra squeeze of lime and a dash of hot sauce to maintain the creaminess.
Serviervorschläge
Take these avocados to the next level by adding extra toppings like sliced black olives, pickled jalapeños for more heat, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. They are best served alongside a simple side salad or on their own as a complete, nutrient-dense meal. For a bit of crunch, you could even sprinkle a few crushed pork rinds on top to keep it keto-compliant.
Save Whether you are strictly keto or just looking for a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy taco night, these stuffed avocados are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. They provide all the satisfaction of a traditional taco without the heavy carbs, leaving you feeling fueled and satisfied. Enjoy this simple yet decadent Mexican-inspired feast!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent avocados from browning?
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cut avocado halves immediately after preparation. The acidity helps prevent oxidation. Serve promptly after assembling for best appearance and texture.
- → Can I make the taco meat ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the seasoned beef up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before stuffing the avocados to ensure the cheese melts properly.
- → What other proteins work well in this dish?
Ground turkey or chicken make excellent lighter alternatives. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tempeh or plant-based meat crumbles seasoned with the same spice blend.
- → How can I increase the spice level?
Add minced jalapeño to the meat mixture while cooking or include seeds if you prefer extra heat. A splash of hot sauce over the finished dish also works beautifully.
- → What sides pair well with stuffed avocados?
These work well alongside cauli-rice, a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette, or roasted low-carb vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.