Craving a comforting and flavorful meal? This Spicy Ground Turkey Enchilada Bake brings the zest of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table. It’s packed with tender ground turkey, vibrant spices, and gooey cheese, making it a favorite for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Imagine layers of seasoned turkey mingling with savory enchilada sauce and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul with its rich flavors. Plus, it’s an easy one-pan recipe that cuts down on cleanup time!
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a tasty meal to whip up, this enchilada bake is sure to impress everyone who digs in.
Ingredients that Make it Special
The foundation of a great enchilada bake starts with quality ingredients. Ground turkey serves as a lean protein option, while onions and garlic add depth to the flavor profile.
Seasonings like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring warmth and richness, perfectly complementing the enchilada sauce. Don’t forget the vibrant toppings; black beans and corn add texture and sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience.
Layering for Flavor
When assembling the dish, layering is key. Begin with a base of enchilada sauce to prevent sticking and ensure moisture. Then alternate between tortillas, the turkey mixture, beans, corn, and cheese.
This technique not only helps distribute flavors evenly but also creates a visually appealing dish with layers that are fun to serve. Each layer contributes to the overall taste, ensuring that every serving is just as delicious as the last.
Baking to Perfection
Baking is where the magic happens. Preheating the oven ensures everything cooks evenly, while covering the dish with foil helps in retaining moisture during the initial baking phase.
Removing the foil for the last ten minutes allows the cheese to bubble and become golden, providing that signature finish that enchilada lovers crave. The aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their serving.
Garnishing for a Fresh Touch
Once out of the oven, garnishing elevates the dish’s presentation. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but enhances the flavor with its refreshing notes.
Serving with lime wedges allows guests to customize their taste further with a zesty squeeze, while a side of fresh salsa provides an additional layer of flavor that complements the enchilada bake beautifully.
Perfect Pairings
This hearty ground turkey enchilada bake pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the cheese and turkey.
If you’re in the mood for something more traditional, a side of Mexican rice or refried beans would enhance the overall meal experience, making it even more satisfying for family dinners or gatherings.
Making it Your Own
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences.
Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can make the dish even heartier, or swapping the ground turkey for chicken or beef can change the flavor profile entirely. The possibilities are endless, making this a go-to recipe for any night of the week!
Delicious Ground Turkey Enchilada Bake Recipe
This enchilada bake features ground turkey sautéed with onions and spices, layered with corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, and topped with a generous amount of cheese. The result is a satisfying and hearty dish that’s both spicy and savory.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Turkey: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground turkey and onion. Cook until turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
- Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce. Add half of the tortilla strips, followed by half of the turkey mixture, half of the black beans, half of the corn, and a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Bake: Pour remaining enchilada sauce on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
