Are you tired of boring leftover turkey sandwiches? Get ready to transform your post-holiday remnants into a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired skillet that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Leftover Turkey Enchilada Skillet is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that rescues those lonely turkey pieces from the depths of your refrigerator and turns them into a culinary masterpiece in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by shredding the leftover turkey, draining and rinsing the black beans, and measuring out the corn, enchilada sauce, and cheese.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin and chili powder, stirring briefly to toast the spices and release their aromatic oils.
- Add shredded turkey to the skillet, stirring to coat with the spices and warm through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the drained black beans and corn, mixing well with the turkey. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors and heat the ingredients.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the turkey mixture, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce and flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover and let the cheese melt completely, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes to allow the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, optionally with rice, tortillas, or a side salad.
Tips
- Shred your turkey while it's still slightly warm for easier pulling and more even distribution.
- Toast your spices briefly in the oil to enhance their flavor profile and release maximum aromatic oils.
- Use a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup and even heat distribution.
- For extra richness, consider using a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- If your enchilada sauce is mild, add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Fresh cilantro is key - chop it right before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and melted cheese experience.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile - feel free to swap turkey with chicken or even plant-based protein for different variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 293kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 53mg
