Easy Turkey Enchilada Casserole Recipe: Family-Favorite Fiesta

Crafting a mouthwatering easy turkey enchilada casserole can revolutionize your dinner routine with minimal effort.

Leftover turkey finds new life in this comforting Mexican-inspired dish.

Layers of tender meat, melted cheese, and zesty sauce create a satisfying meal that comes together in minutes.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the gooey, bubbling top that makes this casserole irresistible.

Busy families can appreciate how simple ingredients combine into something truly delectable.

Minimal prep work means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal together.

This recipe promises to become a go-to solution for quick and tasty dinners that everyone will devour.

Easy Turkey Enchilada Casserole Weeknight Winner

• This turkey enchilada casserole brings excitement to mealtime!
• Transform affordable ingredients like ground turkey and pantry staples into a hearty, satisfying meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank.
• Swap ingredients, add extra veggies, or adjust spices to match your family's taste preferences, making this recipe super flexible and adaptable to any palate.
• Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this all-in-one casserole that combines protein, vegetables, and cheese in a single delightful dish.

Ingredients for Turkey Enchilada Casserole

• Ground Turkey: A lean protein that provides the main body and flavor for this hearty casserole.
• Black Beans (Optional): An additional protein source that adds texture and nutrition to the dish.

• Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder: A blend of spices that creates a rich and authentic Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the turkey mixture.
• Enchilada Sauce: A zesty sauce that adds moisture and traditional Mexican flavor to the casserole.

• Tortilla Strips: Corn or flour tortillas that form the structural layers of the casserole.
• Cheese: Melts to create a gooey, golden topping that adds richness and comfort to the dish.
• Onion, Bell Pepper (Optional): Vegetables that provide additional flavor and nutritional value.
• Olive Oil: Used to cook the turkey and vegetables, adding a subtle flavor and preventing sticking.

• Fresh Cilantro, Sour Cream, Avocado Slices: Toppings that add freshness, creaminess, and extra flavor to the finished casserole.

How to Layer and Bake Turkey Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

Get ready for a mouthwatering meal that’ll make everyone at the table cheer.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Drizzle olive oil into a large skillet and let it heat up.

Toss in the ground turkey and break it down into crumbly bits.

Cook until it’s beautifully golden and no longer pink.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggie Companions

• Chopped onion
• Diced bell pepper

Stir and cook until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Spice It Up

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything together.

Add black beans and enchilada sauce, letting the mixture simmer and meld flavors for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Build the Delicious Layers

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.

• Tortilla strips
• Turkey mixture
• Cheese

Repeat these layers until you’ve used up all ingredients.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil.

Slide into the oven and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes.

• Fresh cilantro
• Sour cream
• Avocado slices

Dig in and savor every bite of this incredible meal!

Tips for Flavorful Turkey Enchilada Casserole

• Use a blend of ground turkey and ground beef for richer, more complex taste profile.
• Pat turkey dry before cooking to ensure crisp, well-browned meat that doesn't release excess moisture.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities to match your personal heat preference, adding more for bolder flavor or reducing for milder results.
• Swap corn tortillas for traditional flour tortillas to create a completely gluten-free version of this comforting casserole.
• Assemble the entire casserole earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve for maximum convenience and time-saving.

Storing and Reheating Turkey Enchilada Casserole

• Store leftover enchilada casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, it will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen enchilada casserole maintains quality for up to 2 months.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely through, removing foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese.

Perfect Pairings for Turkey Enchilada Casserole

• Refresh with Zesty Margaritas: Complement the turkey enchilada casserole's spicy flavors with a classic lime margarita, balancing the dish's rich and bold taste profile.
• Pair with Cool Cucumber Salad: Create a refreshing side that cuts through the casserole's warmth, using crisp cucumbers, lime juice, and a light cilantro dressing to provide a cooling contrast.
• Match with Mexican Amber Lager: Select a smooth, slightly malty beer like Negra Modelo to enhance the enchilada's depth, providing a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with the spices.
• Serve with Tangy Salsa Verde: Add a bright, acidic condiment that lifts the casserole's richness, using a homemade or store-bought green salsa to introduce an extra layer of authentic Mexican flavor.

Creative Spins on Turkey Enchilada Casserole

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace tortilla strips with riced cauliflower layers for a lower-carbohydrate alternative that maintains the enchilada casserole's rich flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Black Bean Swap: Substitute ground turkey with plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or additional black beans, ensuring a protein-packed meatless version that's equally satisfying.
• Gluten-Free Corn Tortilla Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to create a gluten-free friendly recipe that accommodates sensitive dietary needs without compromising taste.
• Dairy-Free Cheese Alternative: Incorporate dairy-free cheese shreds made from nuts or soy to transform the recipe into a vegan-friendly and lactose-free meal that still delivers cheesy goodness.

FAQs

• How healthy is this turkey enchilada casserole?

This recipe offers a nutritious meal with lean ground turkey, high-protein black beans, and vegetables. It’s lower in calories compared to traditional beef enchiladas and provides balanced nutrition with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free, and the dish will be safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has mild spice from chili powder and cumin. You can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños if you prefer a spicier version. For less heat, reduce the amount of spices.

• What are the best cheese options for this casserole?

Shredded cheddar and monterey jack work best. You can also use a Mexican cheese blend or pepper jack for added flavor. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the turkey and spices.

Turkey Enchilada Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mexican comfort shines through this turkey enchilada casserole, melding tender shredded meat with zesty sauce and melted cheese. Layers of rich flavors and hearty ingredients promise a satisfying meal you’ll savor with every delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

Vegetables:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)

Spices and Other Ingredients:

• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil (for cooking)

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Instructions

1. Warm the kitchen oven to a precise 350F (175C), ensuring a consistent heat for optimal cooking.
2. In a spacious skillet, drizzle olive oil and sizzle ground turkey over medium flame, methodically fragmenting the meat until it transforms into a rich, caramel-brown hue (approximately 5-7 minutes).
3. Introduce diced onions and bell peppers, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic essence, creating a vibrant flavor foundation (3-4 minutes).
4. Elevate the turkey mixture with a harmonious blend of spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Incorporate black beans and enchilada sauce, allowing the ingredients to meld and intensify their flavors through a brief simmer.
5. Prepare the baking vessel by spreading a delicate layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom. Construct architectural layers: first tortilla strips, then half the seasoned turkey mixture, crowned with a generous sprinkle of cheese. Repeat this layering process, building depth and complexity.
6. Shield the casserole with aluminum foil, baking for 20 minutes. Unveil the foil and continue baking an additional 10 minutes until the cheese erupts into a golden, bubbling landscape.
7. Allow the casserole a brief resting period (5-10 minutes) to settle and concentrate flavors. Optional embellishments include fresh cilantro, dollops of sour cream, or creamy avocado slices for a final flourish.

Notes

• Swap ground turkey with lean ground chicken or plant-based protein crumbles for alternative protein options that maintain the dish’s delicious flavor profile.
• Use whole wheat or corn tortillas to boost nutritional value and create a gluten-free version of the casserole.
• Reduce sodium by selecting low-sodium enchilada sauce and controlling salt quantities during seasoning process.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time to transform this into a super quick weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg