Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
If you are craving a flavorful, comforting meal that comes together in one pot, the Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. This vibrant, protein-packed dish brings together the perfect blend of tender ground turkey, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a rich enchilada sauce that simmers to saucy perfection. It’s an easy, fuss-free dinner that tastes like you’ve spent hours making it, but actually takes under 30 minutes from start to finish — perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying Mexican-inspired skillet meal without the hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create such a delicious dish. Each element in this Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe plays a crucial role, from the savory spices that build depth to the fresh toppings that brighten every bite.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory base flavor to the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that irresistible warm, garlicky aroma.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides hearty texture and fiber, balancing the protein.
- 1 cup corn kernels: Offers a juicy pop of sweetness whether fresh, canned, or frozen.
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: The star of the dish, delivering bold, tangy, spicy goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy warmth with a hint of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Gives just the right kick of chili heat without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making it salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy note for balance.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend): Melts into gooey, melty perfection for that cheesy finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Brings a refreshing, herbaceous brightness for garnish.
- Tortilla chips, rice, or tortillas (for serving): Choose your favorite base or side to scoop and savor every bite.
How to Make Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—this quick step ensures the flavors build a fragrant foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
Next, add the ground turkey to your skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks and stir regularly. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. This step seals in the juicy texture while creating the meaty base of your skillet.
Step 3: Combine Beans, Corn, and Spices
Once the turkey is ready, stir in the drained black beans and the sweet corn kernels. Pour in the red enchilada sauce, then sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper on top. Mix everything well so each bite is bursting with layers of savory, spicy, and smoky flavors.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Lower the heat and let the skillet gently simmer for 5-7 minutes. This simmer allows the spices to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, turning the dish into a rich, cohesive meal packed with delicious depth.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes, becoming warm, gooey, and bubbly. This is the moment the dish transforms into pure comfort food bliss.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and add fresh chopped cilantro if you love a pop of herbal freshness. This addition lifts the flavors and adds a beautiful touch of color just before serving.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic, but you can also add dollops of sour cream, slices of avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten each portion and add a creamy or tangy contrast to the savory skillet.
Side Dishes
This skillet is lovely on its own, but pairing it with warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or crunchy tortilla chips can turn it into a more filling feast. The sides allow for scooping or wrapping, making every bite interactive and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, serve it straight from the skillet at the table. For a party, consider stuffing the mixture into warm tortillas to make enchilada wraps, or spooning portions over rice bowls topped with your favorite fixings for a colorful meal everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a stress-free meal later.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and provides a similar lean protein base. The seasonings and enchilada sauce will keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.
Is this skillet recipe spicy?
The recipe has mild to moderate heat thanks to the chili powder and enchilada sauce, but you can adjust the spice level by choosing a mild or hot enchilada sauce or adding extra chili powder if you like more kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and add extra beans, veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or even plant-based meat substitutes to keep it hearty and delicious.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a sharp flavor, but a Mexican cheese blend with Monterey Jack and queso quesadilla also works perfectly for that melty, authentic taste.
How do I know when the cheese is melted enough?
Covering the skillet briefly after sprinkling cheese ensures it melts evenly into gooey perfection. Once the cheese is bubbly and no longer firm, it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe is a total winner in my book — it’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor that feels homemade without the effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try and watch how fast it disappears from the skillet!
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Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground turkey is cooked with sautéed onions, garlic, black beans, corn, and zesty enchilada sauce, then topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro for a comforting Mexican-inspired dish. Serve it with tortilla chips, rice, or inside warm tortillas for a delicious and easy dinner the whole family will love.
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 Onion and Garlic: 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 Ground Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Seasonings: Stir in the black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes more until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Serve hot with tortilla chips, over rice, or wrapped inside warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use Mexican blend cheese for a more authentic flavor.
- For a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be made gluten-free by serving with corn tortillas or rice instead of flour tortillas.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground turkey and add extra beans or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
