Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe

This Turkey Enchilada Skillet recipe is a one-pan wonder that delivers all the flavors of classic enchiladas without the hassle of rolling tortillas or turning on the oven. Ground turkey, rich enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cheese come together for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, this skillet is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for serving a crowd or saving for leftovers. Garnish with fresh toppings and enjoy an easy, delicious meal the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: One pan means fewer dishes and a quicker cleanup process.
• Family-Friendly: Mild spices and cheesy goodness make it a hit for all ages.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings, or make it gluten-free by using corn tortillas.
• Quick and Convenient: Perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal fast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dice the Onion and Bell Pepper: Cut the onion and bell pepper into small pieces for even cooking.
2. Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic finely to release maximum flavor.
3. Cut Tortillas into Strips: Slice the tortillas into 1-inch strips or small squares; this helps incorporate them evenly in the skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Ground Turkey: Once the oil is hot, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks.
3. Season Lightly: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, stirring occasionally until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove Excess Grease: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Add Onion, Bell Pepper, and Garlic: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey.
2. Sauté Until Soft: Cook the vegetables until softened, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in Green Chiles: Add the can of chopped green chiles, mixing them well with the other ingredients for a mild kick.

Step 4: Add Enchilada Essentials

1. Add Enchilada Sauce: Pour in the enchilada sauce, stirring until the turkey and vegetables are well-coated.
2. Add Black Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans and corn, making sure they are evenly distributed.
3. Add Diced Tomatoes: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, mixing them thoroughly with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporate Tortilla Strips

1. Add Tortilla Strips: Add the tortilla strips to the skillet, folding them gently into the mixture.
2. Mix Well: Make sure the tortilla pieces are coated in the sauce to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Melt

1. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the skillet.
2. Cover and Cook: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the cheese to melt, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Uncover and Garnish: Once the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, remove the lid and garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or any other toppings you like.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Hot: Spoon portions onto plates and add optional toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or jalapeños.
2. Store Leftovers: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tips for the Best Turkey Enchilada Skillet

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Turkey: To keep it moist, cook just until no longer pink.
3. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using spicy enchilada sauce or adding more jalapeños.
4. Crisp the Tortillas: For a little texture, sauté the tortilla strips in oil before adding them to the skillet.

Recipe Variations

1. Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground turkey with crumbled tofu, extra black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative.
2. Add Veggies: Enhance the dish with zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
3. Swap the Protein: Use ground chicken or ground beef instead of turkey for a different flavor.
4. Make It Extra Cheesy: Add a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Serve with Mexican or cilantro-lime rice on the side.
• With Tortilla Chips: Scoop the skillet mixture onto crispy tortilla chips for a nacho-style experience.
• With Fresh Salad: A side salad with crisp lettuce, tomato, and avocado complements this hearty meal.

Storing and Reheating

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: For a longer shelf-life, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
3. Reheat: Warm leftovers in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a bit more enchilada sauce if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this skillet dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the skillet up to the point of adding the cheese. Store it in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove and add cheese when ready to serve.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef or even shredded chicken would work well in this recipe.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use corn tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

4. Can I add more spice to this recipe?
Certainly! Use hot enchilada sauce, or add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Conclusion

This Turkey Enchilada Skillet recipe is perfect for those craving all the delicious flavors of enchiladas in an easy, hassle-free meal. With just one pan, you’ll enjoy a hearty mix of turkey, beans, veggies, and tortillas smothered in sauce and topped with melted cheese. Not only is it fast to make, but it’s also adaptable to various dietary preferences. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, share it with friends and family, and savor the wonderful flavors of a classic enchilada, skillet-style!

Yield: 4

Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe

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This Turkey Enchilada Skillet recipe is a one-pan wonder that delivers all the flavors of classic enchiladas without the hassle of rolling tortillas or turning on the oven. Ground turkey, rich enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cheese come together for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, this skillet is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for serving a crowd or saving for leftovers. Garnish with fresh toppings and enjoy an easy, delicious meal the whole family will love!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Sour cream, sliced avocado, or jalapeño slices for topping

Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
   
2. Cook Turkey:
   Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
   
3. Add Garlic and Season:
   Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
   
4. Combine Ingredients:
   Stir in the black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and salsa. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
   
5. Melt Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the cheese melt (about 3-4 minutes).
   
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and chopped cilantro. Serve with sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños if desired.

Notes

• Make it Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Swap Beans: Use pinto beans instead of black beans for a twist.
• Serve With: This skillet is great on its own or served with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.