Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet

If you’re looking for a simple, hearty, and flavor-packed meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is about to become your new go-to weeknight dinner. With all the rich, bold flavors of traditional enchiladas—without the hassle of rolling tortillas—this one-pan wonder brings the comfort of Mexican cuisine to your table in a flash. Ground turkey is the star of the show, providing a lean and delicious alternative to beef, but still delivering on all those savory, spicy flavors we love in enchiladas.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can make it as spicy (or mild) as you want, and it’s perfect for meal prep, feeding a crowd, or just treating yourself to something tasty. The best part? Everything cooks together in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, it’s packed with vegetables, making it a well-rounded, nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you’re someone who loves bold, zesty flavors but is short on time, you’ll find that this Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is the answer to your busy weeknight prayers!

So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking. I promise this dish will become a regular in your rotation once you try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• One-Pan Wonder – All the ingredients cook together in one skillet, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Healthy Twist on Classic Enchiladas – Ground turkey is leaner than ground beef, making this a lighter version of the usual enchilada bake.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of enchilada sauce, spices, and the natural sweetness of bell peppers and onions creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your liking, add extra veggies, or top it with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.
• Meal Prep Friendly – This recipe stores well and is great for preparing in advance, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly – This dish is a hit with adults and kids alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet:

• Ground turkey – The lean protein for this dish. Ground turkey is perfect for this recipe as it absorbs the enchilada sauce and spices beautifully.
• Enchilada sauce – You’ll want a good quality enchilada sauce, either red or green, depending on your preference. I recommend using mild or medium for a more balanced flavor, but feel free to go spicy if you like heat!
• Bell peppers – I love using a mix of red, green, or yellow bell peppers for added sweetness and color. They bring a nice crunch and balance to the dish.
• Onion – A yellow onion works best here, adding sweetness and depth to the flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic kick to the base of the dish.
• Black beans – These add fiber and heartiness to the skillet. Canned black beans work just fine; just make sure to drain and rinse them.
• Corn – Frozen corn adds a sweet, slightly crispy bite that complements the savory turkey and enchilada sauce.
• Spices – Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a little salt and pepper give the dish that bold, smoky flavor you expect from enchiladas.
• Olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and turkey.
• Cheese (optional) – Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese is optional, but it adds a gooey, melty layer on top that’s always welcome.
• Cilantro (optional) – Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness, if you like that herby kick.
• Sour cream and avocado (optional) – These make for the perfect toppings to round out the flavors.

(Note: A complete list of ingredients with exact measurements is included in the instructions section below.)

How to Make It (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1: Sauté the veggies

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks, and let it cook through for 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the turkey is no longer pink and has a nice, browned color. Season the turkey with the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring well to coat the meat in the spices.

Step 3: Add the enchilada sauce and beans

Once the turkey is cooked and seasoned, pour in the enchilada sauce. Add the black beans and corn, and stir everything together to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Melt the cheese (optional)

If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend of cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve the skillet hot, and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

Meal Prep Ideas

This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, so it’s a great option for those looking to save time.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat the skillet in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little splash of water to loosen up the sauce.

Make It Spicy

If you love spice, feel free to kick things up a notch by adding chopped jalapeños to the skillet or using a spicier enchilada sauce. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top when serving for an extra burst of heat.

Vegetarian Version

If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can easily swap the ground turkey for a meat alternative, such as crumbled tempeh or extra beans and vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to make up for the lack of meat.

Try Different Toppings

While cheese, sour cream, and avocado are classic toppings for this dish, feel free to get creative! Try a squeeze of lime, a few slices of pickled jalapeños, or even some crumbled tortilla chips for added crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time and reheat when needed. It’s also perfect for meal prepping.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?

If you don’t have enchilada sauce on hand, you can use a combination of tomato sauce and spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika to mimic the flavor. You can also use salsa or even a can of diced tomatoes as a substitute, depending on what you have in your pantry.

Can I make this with ground beef or chicken?

Yes! If you prefer ground beef or chicken, you can easily swap them in place of the ground turkey. Keep in mind that ground beef will be a bit richer and fattier, while chicken may need some extra seasoning to match the flavor of turkey.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check the labels on your enchilada sauce and other store-bought ingredients to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten. Many brands offer gluten-free enchilada sauces.

This Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and health. It’s easy to make, packed with protein and vegetables, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing for a busy week ahead, or just looking for a quick and delicious dinner, this recipe has got you covered. I hope it becomes a staple in your meal rotation!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! It’s one of my favorite weeknight meals because it’s fast, flavorful, and always a hit. Happy cooking!