Description
If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-filled dish that brings the boldness of enchiladas into a one-dish bake, the Ground Turkey Enchilada Casserole is your answer. This dish layers lean ground turkey, savory beans and vegetables, tortillas, and melted cheese—all brought together with rich enchilada sauce. It takes all the familiar favorites of Mexican-style cuisine and streamlines them into a comforting casserole. You’ll get the cheesy melt, the protein punch, the spicy warmth (if you choose), and enough layers to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 oz / 285 g) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Layering:
8–10 small corn tortillas (or flour if preferred)
2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)
Optional toppings: sliced olives, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, avocado, sour cream
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Turkey Mixture
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and bell pepper; cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Stir in garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and spices.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of the turkey mixture on the bottom of the dish.
Add a layer of tortillas (cut them to fit).
Spoon half of the remaining turkey mixture over the tortillas, sprinkle with cheese.
Repeat layers (tortillas → meat → cheese), ending with cheese on top.
4. Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Top with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cilantro, and sour cream.
Notes
This Cheesy Ground Turkey Enchilada Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. For extra flavor, top it with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream before serving. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420