If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant, and incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner, then you will absolutely love this Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe. It brings together the wholesome goodness of lean ground turkey with a hearty mix of black beans, corn, and that unmistakable punch of red enchilada sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This one-pan wonder is not only quick and easy but also a crowd-pleaser with its bold Mexican-inspired flavors and satisfying texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component plays a key role, from the lean protein of ground turkey to the richness of the enchilada sauce, the sweetness of corn, and the melty cheese that pulls everything together beautifully.
- 1 lb ground turkey: This lean protein keeps the dish light but hearty, perfect for a healthy dinner.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness to sauté the onions and develop flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the base of the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds fiber, creaminess, and a boost of protein.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen): Offers a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: The star of the dish, providing bold, tangy, and smoky flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings warmth and earthiness that complements the enchilada sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a gentle heat and signature Southwest flair.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spice and aroma.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend): Melts into a gooey topping that makes every forkful irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Offers a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
- Tortilla chips, rice, or tortillas (for serving): Perfect for scooping or wrapping your flavorful skillet creation.
How to Make Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until it softens and becomes translucent. This gentle cooking brings out the natural sweetness of the onion. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds so the kitchen fills with that cozy, savory aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
Now, it’s time to add your ground turkey. Break it up in the skillet with a spatula and cook it thoroughly until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take around 5 to 6 minutes. This step ensures that every bite will have that satisfying meaty texture without any dryness.
Step 3: Combine the Beans, Corn, and Spices
Once your turkey is cooked, stir in the black beans, corn kernels, and enchilada sauce. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, then mix everything really well. This is where the flavors start melding, building a rich, complex base for your skillet.
Step 4: Simmer and Let Flavors Meld
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the skillet cook uncovered for about 5 to 7 minutes. This slow bubbling deepens the flavors and thickens the sauce slightly, creating that luscious coating that clings to every ingredient.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese over the top in an even layer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling beautifully. This melty cheese finish is the crowning glory of your Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and, if you like, sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of fresh flavor. Then serve hot with your favorite tortilla chips, steamed rice, or wrapped in warm tortillas for a true Mexican-inspired feast.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your skillet from great to unforgettable. Bright chopped cilantro adds fresh herbal notes, a dollop of sour cream brings creamy tang, and sliced jalapeños give a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime on top for a zesty finish that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy Spanish rice or even a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. For crunchy contrast, serve with tortilla chips to scoop every last flavorful morsel or warm flour tortillas ready for wrapping.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, consider setting up a skillet dinner bar with an array of toppings like diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, pickled onions, and various cheeses. Alternatively, use the Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe filling as a hearty taco or burrito base for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making for an even tastier meal when reheated.
Freezing
This skillet freezes beautifully! Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label with the date so you’ll know when to enjoy it next.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through to keep the cheese melty and the skillet delicious.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe and will yield a similarly tender and flavorful dish. Just be mindful of cooking times as ground chicken can cook a bit faster.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to cumin and chili powder. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the chili powder or omit jalapeños in garnishes. For more spice, add hot sauce or diced green chilies.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground turkey for extra black beans, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein. The enchilada sauce and spices will still provide fantastic flavor.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar and Mexican cheese blends are perfect because they melt well and complement the flavor profile. If you want a bit of creaminess, Monterey Jack or even a mild mozzarella can be used.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?
Definitely! This is a great dish for meal prep. You can cook the skillet fully, portion it out, and store in the fridge or freezer for quick, delicious meals during the week.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe is truly one of those go-to dishes that combines ease, nutrition, and incredible flavor into a single skillet meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want something comforting but quick. I promise once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. So, grab your ingredients and dive into this deliciously satisfying dish today!
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Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring lean ground turkey cooked with black beans, corn, and a rich enchilada sauce. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner served with tortilla chips, rice, or wrapped in tortillas.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
Pantry Items and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dairy and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Serving Suggestions
- Tortilla chips, rice, or tortillas (for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add beans, corn, and seasonings: Stir in the drained black beans, corn kernels, red enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
- Simmer to meld flavors: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Melt cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Serve the skillet hot with tortilla chips, over cooked rice, or wrapped in warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the seasonings.
- You can substitute ground chicken or lean beef for the turkey if preferred.
- Use low-sodium enchilada sauce and beans to reduce salt intake.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the skillet or microwave.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for added brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
