If you’re craving a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make, this ground turkey enchilada recipe is the perfect choice! These enchiladas are packed with tender ground turkey, warm spices, and smothered in rich enchilada sauce, making them a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something special for a weekend gathering, this recipe comes together effortlessly and guarantees bold flavors in every bite.
With lean ground turkey as the star ingredient, this recipe is a healthier take on traditional enchiladas without sacrificing any of the delicious taste. It’s also a great way to introduce a twist to your classic Mexican dishes. Using this ground turkey enchilada recipe, you’ll enjoy a meal that is nutritious, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to adjust the level of spice and toppings to your liking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional for extra heat)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream, guacamole, and lime wedges for serving
Execution
1-Cook the ground turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Then, add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned and cooked through.
2-Season the meat: Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook with the meat for 2-3 minutes to develop flavor. Stir in the black beans and diced green chilies (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing everything to combine.
3-Prepare the tortillas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Warm the tortillas in a microwave or skillet for a few seconds to make them pliable.
4-Assemble the enchiladas: Spread a spoonful of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place about 2 tablespoons of the ground turkey mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
5-Top and bake: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6-Serve: Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and lime wedges for a full-flavored meal.
Tips
About: Ground Turkey Enchilada Recipe
- Tortilla choices: You can use either corn or flour tortillas, depending on your preference. Corn tortillas are more traditional but can be more delicate, so be sure to warm them before rolling. Flour tortillas are easier to work with and absorb the sauce nicely.
- Make it spicier: If you love a bit of heat, consider using a spicier enchilada sauce or adding extra diced jalapeños to the turkey filling. For milder enchiladas, stick to a mild enchilada sauce and omit the chilies.
- Cheese variations: While cheddar or a Mexican blend is classic, feel free to mix things up with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. A blend of cheeses can add depth to the flavor and create a gooey, delicious topping.
- Customize the filling: This ground turkey enchilada recipe is highly customizable! You can add corn, diced bell peppers, or even sautéed spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor. If you like a creamier texture, stir in some cream cheese or sour cream with the ground turkey.
- Make it ahead: These enchiladas can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Simply assemble the dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven!
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