Name: Simple Ground Turkey Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional); 8 medium flour tortillas; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Why You’ll Love Simple Ground Turkey Enchiladas Recipe

These enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Ground turkey keeps the dish lean while still providing plenty of protein and flavor. The filling is savory and perfectly spiced, and the melted cheese combined with rich enchilada sauce makes every bite comforting and satisfying.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, or prepare it ahead of time for stress-free meals. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep approved, and guaranteed to become a repeat dinner favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground turkey
small onion, diced
garlic cloves, minced
chili powder
ground cumin
chipotle powder or smoked paprika
salt
black pepper
beef broth or chicken broth
refried beans
flour tortillas or almond flour tortillas
red enchilada sauce
shredded Mexican blend cheese

Optional toppings:
Greek yogurt or sour cream
fresh cilantro
sliced jalapeños
diced avocado

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion in a small amount of oil until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the refried beans until fully combined and heated through. Remove from heat.
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Fill each tortilla with a portion of the turkey mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Variations

For a spicier version, add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture.

To make this dish gluten-free, use certified gluten-free tortillas.

You can substitute ground chicken for the turkey if preferred.

For a veggie-packed option, add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the filling.

If you prefer a creamier texture, mix a few spoonfuls of sour cream into the filling before rolling the tortillas.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, assemble the enchiladas but do not bake them. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

To reheat refrigerated enchiladas, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in 60-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.

What type of tortillas work best?

Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll, but corn tortillas can be used if warmed first to prevent cracking.

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?

Absolutely. Store-bought sauce works perfectly and saves time, though homemade sauce is also an option.

How do I keep the enchiladas from getting soggy?

Avoid over-saturating the tortillas with sauce before baking. A light layer on the bottom and a moderate amount on top is ideal.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms blend well with the turkey mixture.

What cheese melts best for enchiladas?

A Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of these cheeses melts beautifully.

Are these enchiladas spicy?

They are mildly spiced. You can easily increase or decrease the heat by adjusting the chili powder or chipotle seasoning.

Can I freeze leftovers after baking?

Yes, baked enchiladas can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent tortillas from tearing?

Warm the tortillas slightly before filling to make them more pliable and easier to roll.

What sides go well with ground turkey enchiladas?

Mexican rice, black beans, a fresh green salad, or corn salad pair wonderfully with this dish.

Conclusion

Simple Ground Turkey Enchiladas bring together bold Tex-Mex flavors with a lighter protein choice, making them a satisfying yet balanced meal. Easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for leftovers, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a regular spot on your dinner rotation.