If you have some turkey leftover from a recent feast and are craving something both comforting and exciting, this Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with layers of tangy marinade, melty cheese, and the vibrant flavors of enchilada sauce, it effortlessly transforms those turkey scraps into a crowd-pleasing dinner. The combination of honey-lime marinade and a creamy salsa verde topping makes each bite irresistible, turning a humble meal into a fiesta of taste and warmth that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each plays a vital role in bringing the Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe to life. From the juiciness of the turkey to the zestiness of lime and the creamy richness of Crema, every component adds a distinct dimension of flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 lb leftover cooked turkey or cooked chicken: Shredded or cut into small pieces, this is the hearty base of your enchiladas.
- 1/2 cup honey: Adds just the right touch of natural sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1/2 cup lime juice: Brings a fresh, tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 Tbsp chili powder: Gives that classic Mexican warmth and mild heat.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Builds savory depth and aroma throughout.
- 8-10 flour tortillas: Soft, pliable wraps perfect for rolling all those flavorful fillings.
- 4 cups shredded Monterrey jack cheese or a Mexican blend: Melts beautifully to create gooey, stretchy deliciousness.
- 1 cup green enchilada sauce (divided): Infuses moisture and a zesty punch.
- 1 cup salsa verde: Adds herbaceous notes and a little tangy kick.
- 1 cup Crema (Mexican cream or heavy cream substitute): Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich.
How to Make Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Marinate Your Turkey
Start by combining honey, lime juice, chili powder, and garlic powder to create an irresistibly flavorful marinade. Place your already cooked turkey pieces in a plastic bag and drown them in this zesty mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Although you only need 30 minutes for a quick flavor boost, letting the turkey soak up the marinade for up to 24 hours will make your enchiladas truly unforgettable.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Get your oven ready to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate temperature will help the enchiladas bake evenly and the cheese to melt into that perfect gooey texture without drying out the filling.
Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray to save yourself some cleanup stress later. Pour half a cup of green enchilada sauce onto the bottom and spread it evenly; this layer will keep the enchiladas moist and infuse extra flavor from the very first bite.
Step 4: Mix Turkey and Cheese
Drain your marinated turkey, reserving any leftover marinade for the sauce later. Then, stir the turkey meat together with three cups of shredded cheese. This combination creates a melty, savory filling that is truly the heart of the dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
Place about half a cup of the turkey and cheese mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, then lay each seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. The slim, cozy rolls will soak in all the delicious sauces during baking and hold together nicely.
Step 6: Make the Topping Sauce
In a bowl, blend the remaining green enchilada sauce with salsa verde, Crema, and any leftover marinade. This velvety, tangy sauce will blanket the enchiladas, adding a beautiful color contrast and depth of flavor.
Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the rolled enchiladas, then sprinkle the final cup of shredded cheese on top. This cheese topping will bubble and brown slightly, creating that irresistible golden crust that makes enchiladas so special.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until everything is bubbling joyfully and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. After removing from the oven, let the enchiladas rest for five minutes to set up and make serving easier.
How to Serve Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
While these Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe are wonderful on their own, some fresh garnishes instantly elevate the experience. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, or even some diced avocado to add texture and a pop of freshness that complements the rich, cheesy filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
Perfect accompaniments to your turkey enchiladas include a simple Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides balance out the richness and add ample variety to your meal, making it as complete as it is delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take your Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe to the next level, try serving individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or colorful ramekins. Alternatively, arrange the enchiladas on a large platter with sides and garnishes artistically scattered around for a festive family-style feast that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled, unbaked enchiladas by wrapping the baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Frozen enchiladas last for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat leftover enchiladas, cover them with foil and warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until hot throughout. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power in short bursts, being careful not to dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken works wonderfully in this Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe and will soak up the marinade and sauces just as well as turkey.
What if I don’t have Crema? Can I substitute something else?
If Crema isn’t available, heavy cream or sour cream can be used as substitutes to create that creamy sauce texture and tangy flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
You can boost the heat by adding extra chili powder, some cayenne pepper, or topping with sliced jalapeños. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Are flour tortillas the best choice here?
Flour tortillas are preferred for their flexibility and softness, which helps with rolling. However, if you love corn tortillas, you can use those but warm them thoroughly beforehand to avoid cracking.
How long can I marinate the turkey for best flavor?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is enough to infuse flavor, but up to 24 hours in the fridge will deepen the taste in the turkey and make your enchiladas even more delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about turning leftover turkey into a dish this flavorful and satisfying. This Easy Leftover Turkey Enchiladas Recipe not only rescues leftover meat from the fridge but elevates it to a dazzling dinner centerpiece. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to when you want a quick, delicious meal that feels like a celebration. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and rewarding it is to make!
