Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender turkey wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in zesty green chile sauce that tickles your taste buds and warms your heart. You can practically hear the angels sing as those flavors dance around your palate!
Now, let me take you back to that post-Thanksgiving haze when I found myself staring at a mountain of leftover turkey. Instead of letting it languish in the fridge like last week’s laundry, I decided to turn it into something magical—enchiladas! These beauties not only saved my sanity but transformed my kitchen into a fiesta of flavor and fun.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These enchiladas are quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The combination of turkey and green chile creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds singing.
- Visually appealing, these enchiladas boast vibrant colors that brighten any dinner table.
- Perfect for utilizing leftovers or customizing based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Leftover Turkey: Shredded turkey is perfect here; use whatever you have left from Thanksgiving or any roast.
- Corn Tortillas: Soft and pliable tortillas work best, holding all the goodness without falling apart.
- Green Chile Sauce: A zesty sauce adds flavor and moisture; store-bought or homemade works wonders!
- Cheddar Cheese: Grated cheese melts beautifully over the top, adding richness and that cheesy pull we all love.
- Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and cools down the spice from the chiles.
- Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth; feel free to use red or yellow based on your preference.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for a balanced flavor without excess salt.
- Fresh Cilantro: This herb brightens up the entire dish; chop it finely for maximum flavor impact.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations later on.
Step 2: Sauté Those Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, toss in some chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it. How about some garlic? Add minced garlic for an extra punch!
Step 3: Combine Turkey and Sauce
In a large bowl, mix your shredded turkey with half of the green chile sauce. Add the sautéed onions into the mix too! Stir until everything is well combined and ready for action.
Step 4: Fill Those Tortillas
Place about two tablespoons of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly like you’re wrapping a present (only this one is edible!). Place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining green chile sauce over your rolled enchiladas like it’s a cozy blanket. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
Step 6: Bake Away
Pop those bad boys into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Your kitchen will smell divine, making it hard not to sneak bites before they’re ready!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sour cream for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve turned yesterday’s leftovers into today’s taco-inspired masterpiece!
These Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce are not just food; they’re an experience—a journey through flavors that transforms what could be mundane into something memorable. So gather around the dinner table and dig in—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- These leftover turkey enchiladas with green chile sauce are a delightful way to use up that Thanksgiving turkey.
- Easy to make and packed with flavor, they transform your leftovers into a meal that feels brand new.
- Your family will be begging for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by shredding your leftover turkey while the oven preheats. Sauté onions and garlic in a skillet, then mix in the shredded turkey and spices. Assemble the enchiladas, pour on the green chile sauce, and bake until bubbly. Efficiency is key for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in black beans or corn for added texture. Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for some heat. You can also switch out the green chile sauce for red if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Microwaving works too but may affect texture slightly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly rolled enchiladas, warm your tortillas first to prevent cracking.
- Don’t overload them; a little filling goes a long way.
- Lastly, let them rest for a few minutes after baking to set up nicely before serving.
Sharing my first attempt at making leftover turkey enchiladas was memorable; my family devoured them so quickly I barely got a bite! It felt great to see everyone enjoying their meal together.
FAQs :
What are Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce?
Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce are a delicious way to use up leftover turkey. This recipe combines shredded turkey, cheese, and tortillas, all topped with a rich green chile sauce. It’s a perfect dish for repurposing holiday leftovers while delivering bold flavors that your whole family will enjoy. You can customize the filling with additional ingredients like beans or vegetables for added nutrition.
How do I store Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce?
To store Leftover Turkey Enchiladas, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat them thoroughly before serving.
Can I make Leftover Turkey Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Leftover Turkey Enchiladas ahead of time. Assemble the enchiladas and cover them tightly before refrigerating or freezing. If you plan to bake them later, consider adding the green chile sauce just before cooking to maintain freshness. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or when hosting guests, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without last-minute prep.
What variations can I try for Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce?
There are many fun variations you can try! For instance, substitute turkey with shredded chicken or beef if you have other leftovers. You can also adjust the spice level by using mild or hot green chiles based on your preference. Adding black beans, corn, or sautéed vegetables provides extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Conclusion for Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce :
Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce provide a flavorful solution to using up leftover turkey while delighting your taste buds. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you decide to customize it with additional fillings or spices, these enchiladas are sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy this tasty meal that brings comfort and creativity together!
Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce
Leftover Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce are a delicious way to transform holiday leftovers into a comforting meal. Tender shredded turkey is wrapped in soft corn tortillas, drenched in zesty green chile sauce, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also allows for customization based on what you have on hand. Perfect for busy weeknights, these enchiladas will surely become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup green chile sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Sauté chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix shredded turkey with half of the green chile sauce and sautéed onions.
- Place two tablespoons of the turkey mixture in each tortilla and roll tightly. Arrange seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining green chile sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve with sour cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - Warm tortillas before filling to prevent cracking.- Customize by adding black beans or corn for extra texture.- Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varying flavors.
