As autumn settles in and the last remnants of Thanksgiving linger in your fridge, I find myself embracing every opportunity to reinvent delicious meals from the festive feast. One evening, while pondering what to do with some leftover turkey, the idea for a Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Skillet was born, and oh, what a revelation it turned out to be!
Picture this: a creamy pumpkin enchilada sauce draping over tender shredded turkey and a medley of roasted veggies, all cooked in a single pan. It’s not just easy; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. This dish is not only gluten-free and high in protein but also transforms those post-holiday blues into a vibrant fiesta of nourishment.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just diving into a comforting weeknight meal, trust me—this Turkey Enchiladas Skillet will impress your taste buds and make you forget about that fast-food rut. Let’s jump into this easy, healthy twist on a classic dish that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!
Why Make Turkey Enchiladas Skillet?
Turkey Enchiladas Skillet takes your Thanksgiving leftovers to a whole new level!
- Quick Preparation: This one-pan meal comes together in just about 30 minutes, saving you precious time after busy holidays.
- Flavor Explosion: The creamy pumpkin sauce paired with the smoky chipotles creates a rich, savory taste that you won’t forget.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or even impressing guests, everyone will want seconds!
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match with any leftover veggies or proteins, making it truly your own.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with high protein and gluten-free, it’s a satisfying choice that keeps the festive spirit alive while being kind to your body.
Turkey Enchiladas Skillet Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the sauce; can substitute with butternut squash puree for a different taste.
- Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and flavor base for the sauce; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option.
- Chopped Tomatoes – Contributes acidity and freshness; canned or fresh tomatoes can be used.
- Chipotle Chilis in Adobo Sauce – Adds heat and smokiness; for milder flavor, use a small amount of chili powder.
- Chili Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile; adjust depending on desired spiciness.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Skillet
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for cooking the onion; can substitute with avocado oil.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and texture; any variety such as yellow or red works well.
- Leftover Vegetables – Add bulk and nutrients; feel free to use hardy greens or roasted veggies like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts.
- Shredded Turkey Breast – Main protein source; can be replaced with shredded chicken or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian dish.
- Corn Tortillas – Provide structure; may substitute with flour tortillas, cutting into strips for easier integration.
- Shredded Cheese – Adds creaminess on top; use Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.
How to Make Turkey Enchiladas Skillet
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Preheat Oven: Adjust your oven rack about six inches from the broiler and heat it to high. This ensures a perfect finish for your cheese topping.
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Make Sauce: In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, chicken broth, chopped tomatoes, chipotle chilis, chili powder, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy for a rich sauce.
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Cook Onion: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This adds a lovely sweetness to your dish.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in any leftover vegetables you have, cooking them for 2-3 minutes until heated through. They’ll add great texture and nutrients to the skillet.
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Combine Ingredients: Toss in the shredded turkey and cut tortilla strips, then pour in your delicious enchilada sauce. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients evenly.
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Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want everything well blended and aromatic.
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Broil: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted and slightly browned, about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
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Garnish: Let it cool for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Top with sour cream, jalapenos, and cilantro before serving. This adds freshness to each bite.
Optional: Serve with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Turkey Enchiladas Skillet
- Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: Opt for a skillet that can transition from stovetop to oven effortlessly, ensuring perfect broiling results.
- Even Veggie Sizes: Slice vegetables uniformly to guarantee they cook evenly, enhancing the overall texture of your Turkey Enchiladas Skillet.
- Mind the Broiler: Keep a close eye while broiling the cheese to prevent burning; it can go from perfectly melted to overcooked in seconds!
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to sample your sauce before combining ingredients; adjust seasonings to match your preferred spice level for the best outcome.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to explore with different veggie and protein combinations to create your personalized Turkey Enchiladas Skillet that your family will adore!
What to Serve with Turkey Enchiladas Skillet?
As you savor every bite of this hearty skillet, consider pairing it with some delightful sides that elevate your dining experience.
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Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette balances the dish’s creaminess and adds a crunch.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado offers a smooth, rich flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the smoky enchilada sauce and tender turkey.
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Mexican Cornbread: Its slightly sweet and fluffy texture complements the savory elements of the skillet, creating a delightful contrast.
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Classic Salsa: A fresh tomatillo or pico de gallo salsa adds a vibrant punch of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your meal.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty notes of lime with fragrant cilantro serve as a perfect base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
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Margaritas or Sparkling Water: Refreshing beverages can lighten up the meal; a fruity margarita or sparkling lime-infused water keeps the mood festive!
Embrace this combination for a meal that brings laughter, warmth, and full tummies to your table!
Storage Tips for Turkey Enchiladas Skillet
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Turkey Enchiladas Skillet fresh and delicious for your next meal.
- Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain quality.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help retain moisture while reheating.
- Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving your Turkey Enchiladas Skillet out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Enchiladas Skillet are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you time during hectic days! You can prep most components—such as the creamy pumpkin enchilada sauce and chopped vegetables—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply blend the sauce and refrigerate it, and store the chopped veggies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, heat the skillet over medium, add your leftover turkey and tortilla strips, pour in the sauce, and simmer for about 5 minutes. Broil with cheese until bubbly, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal that feels just as fresh as when you first prepared it!
Turkey Enchiladas Skillet Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to your taste!
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Sweet Potato Swap: Replace pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a naturally sweeter flavor and a lovely orange hue.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use canned beans, like black or pinto beans, instead of turkey for a hearty protein source that still feels indulgent.
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Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheese types, like feta or goat cheese, for a tangy twist that elevates the flavor profile.
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Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by incorporating diced jalapeños or using a milder chili powder if you prefer a gentler kick.
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Tortilla Variations: Swap corn tortillas for whole wheat or spinach tortillas to enhance nutritional value and add a unique taste.
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Mixed Veggie Medley: Toss in whatever leftover vegetables you have, from spinach to zucchini, for added nutrients and diverse textures.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top right before serving for a burst of freshness that brightens the dish.
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Creamy Topping Twist: Mix Greek yogurt with lime juice as a healthier alternative to sour cream, adding creaminess with a zesty zing.
Turkey Enchiladas Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or homemade puree for a fresher flavor. If you’re looking for a twist, butternut squash puree works wonderfully and adds a slightly different sweetness to your sauce.
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
For storing, place your Turkey Enchiladas Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up.
Can I freeze my Turkey Enchiladas Skillet?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion it into airtight containers or use freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave for a comforting meal that tastes fresh.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred consistency. The goal is a creamy but pourable sauce that can generously coat the turkey and tortillas.
Are there any dietary considerations I should note?
Make sure to check for any allergies among your diners! This Turkey Enchiladas Skillet is gluten-free if made with corn tortillas. For vegetarian options, substitute the turkey with shredded beans or plant-based chicken. Moreover, ensure chipotle chilis meet your guests’ spice preferences, as they can really pack a punch!
Satisfying Turkey Enchiladas Skillet for Thanksgiving Leftovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven rack about six inches from the broiler and heat it to high.
- In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, chicken broth, chopped tomatoes, chipotle chilis, chili powder, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in any leftover vegetables and cook them for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Toss in the shredded turkey and cut tortilla strips, then pour in your enchilada sauce. Stir everything together.
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes, then top with sour cream, jalapenos, and cilantro before serving.