Description
This Turkey Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful and hearty Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. It features seasoned ground turkey layered with corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, and melted Mexican blend cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. Topped with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, and jalapeños for a delicious and customizable meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- ½ lb ground turkey
- ½ medium onion, chopped (optional)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Base and Toppings
- 10 small corn tortillas, halved or quartered
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for serving)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
- Diced avocado (optional twist, for serving)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional twist, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. If using, add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Season the Turkey: Stir in the taco seasoning along with ½ cup of enchilada sauce. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare to Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. Arrange a layer of halved or quartered corn tortillas over the sauce. Spoon half of the turkey mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese. Drizzle more enchilada sauce over the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, turkey, cheese, and sauce, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool slightly before slicing. Top individual servings with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and, if desired, diced avocado and sliced jalapeños for a tasty, fresh finish.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, add extra jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- If you want to keep it gluten free, ensure your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are labeled gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding black beans or corn to the turkey mixture can add more texture and flavor.
