Ground Turkey Enchilada Recipe

This Ground Turkey Enchilada Recipe is a healthy and flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas. Made with lean ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and zesty enchilada sauce, it’s a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on taste. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. With easy to find ingredients and a simple method, it’s a must try for anyone craving Mexican inspired comfort food without all the calories.

Description

Enchiladas are a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, offering a combination of savory fillings wrapped in soft corn tortillas and covered in a rich, flavorful sauce. Traditional enchiladas often use ground beef, but this ground turkey enchilada recipe is a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. Ground turkey is a leaner option that still provides the same satisfying texture and taste, making it a healthier choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake while still enjoying a delicious, hearty meal.

This Ground Turkey Enchilada Recipe uses simple ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store, such as ground turkey, tortillas, cheese, and a homemade or store bought enchilada sauce. You can customize the recipe to your liking by adding vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. The result is a dish that’s savory, tangy, and perfectly cheesy — just the right balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

One of the best things about this ground turkey enchilada recipe is that it’s versatile. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer by adjusting the heat level of your enchilada sauce or adding ingredients like jalapeños or chili powder. For those on a low carb or gluten free diet, this Ground Turkey Enchilada Recipe can easily be adapted to meet those needs by using gluten free tortillas or skipping the cheese topping.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its convenience. You can prep the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. It also works well for feeding a crowd or serving at gatherings since it can be doubled or tripled without much extra effort.

When it comes to serving, pair your ground turkey enchiladas with a simple side salad, Spanish rice, or black beans for a complete, satisfying meal. A dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice on top will add an extra layer of flavor and freshness to each bite.

This ground turkey enchilada recipe is also an excellent way to get creative in the kitchen. You can try different variations, like adding beans, corn, or even sweet potatoes to the filling. The recipe is forgiving, and you can make it your own with ease.

Perfect for families, meal prepping, or simply anyone who loves a tasty, comforting meal that’s healthier than the traditional version, this ground turkey enchilada recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet or 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
8-10 corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
Add Veggies: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan with the turkey. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Season the Filling: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another minute to let the spices bloom.
Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them easier to roll.
Fill the Tortillas: Spoon a generous amount of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place them seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the sauce.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes:

Make Ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing: This recipe freezes well. After baking, let the enchiladas cool completely, then cover with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground turkey with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu.
Low Carb Option: Use low carb tortillas or zucchini slices in place of tortillas for a low carb twist.