After a whirlwind of a day, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm plate of homemade Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with Creamy White Sauce. The moment the earthy aroma of cumin and green onions fills the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a wave of relaxation wash over you. These enchiladas are not just a meal; they’re a beacon of cozy evenings with family, bringing everyone around the dinner table to savor each cheesy, creamy bite.
I love how the lean ground turkey keeps these enchiladas satisfying without weighing you down, making them a perfect choice for light weeknight dinners. You can even prep them ahead of time for those bustling evenings when cooking feels like just one more thing on your to-do list. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a dish that’s both delicious and guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
Comforting Sensation: These Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce deliver a warm, homey vibe that’s perfect for lifting spirits after a long day.
Satisfying Texture: With a creamy white sauce and soft tortillas, every bite is a delightful medley of flavors and textures.
Nutritious Choice: Ground turkey ensures a lean protein option without sacrificing taste, making this dish a win for health-conscious cooks.
Easy Prep: Simplify your weeknights! Assemble these enchiladas in just a few steps and enjoy hassle-free comfort food.
Family Favorite: This recipe is a big crowd-pleaser—perfect for all ages and guaranteed to get everyone around the table.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Customize with cheese alternatives or additional veggies to suit your family’s taste.
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas Ingredients
• Get ready to delight your taste buds with this scrumptious twist on a classic!
For the Filling
- Ground Turkey – Provides lean protein; opt for 93/7 for the best moisture and flavor.
- Chilies (4 oz) – Adds just the right kick; choose mild or hot based on your spice preference.
- Sour Cream (1 cup total, divided) – Introduces creaminess and tang; using quality brands like Daisy enhances flavor.
- Cumin (1 tsp total) – Infuses a warm aroma; pairs excellently with ground turkey.
- Ancho Chili Powder (1 tsp) – Gives a rich, smoky depth to the filling; don’t skip it!
- Green Onions (4) – Adds a fresh crunch; remember to use both white and green parts for full flavor.
- Cilantro (0.25 cup, finely chopped) – Brightens up the filling with a pop of freshness.
For the Enchiladas
- Monterey Jack Cheese (2.75 cups total) – Melts beautifully, making for a gooey topping; always choose freshly shredded for the best result.
- Flour Tortillas (12) – Essential for wrapping; warming them prevents cracking during assembly.
For the White Sauce
- Heavy Cream (1.5 cups) – Forms the luscious base of the creamy sauce; richness at its best.
- Salsa Verde (0.5 cup) – Delivers tanginess and a hint of spice; elevate your white sauce with this addition.
- Garlic Powder (0.5 tsp) – Amplifies flavor; a little goes a long way in enhancing the sauce’s deliciousness.
These Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce are ready to become a cherished dinner tradition!
How to Make Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This important step ensures your enchiladas come out beautifully without sticking to the pan!
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Prepare filling: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped green onions, cilantro, chilies, spices, and 0.5 cup of sour cream. Mix gently, then season to taste for the perfect flavorful filling.
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Make white sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sour cream, heavy cream, salsa verde, cumin, garlic powder, and seasonings until smooth. You want a creamy sauce that will enrich your enchiladas.
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Warm tortillas: Place the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds each. This step makes them pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
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Fill tortillas: Spoon 1/3 cup of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in the greased baking dish.
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Pour sauce: Generously pour the creamy white sauce over the top of the arranged enchiladas and sprinkle with the delicious shredded cheese, ensuring an even coverage.
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Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, giving that inviting golden color.
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Rest and serve: Let your enchiladas rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief wait helps the flavors meld and makes for cleaner cuts!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
- Warm Tortillas: Always warm tortillas before filling to prevent cracking. This ensures they roll easily and maintain their shape.
- Avoid Overfilling: Stick to using 1/3 cup of filling per tortilla to prevent spills while baking. An overstuffed tortilla can lead to a messy dish.
- Seam-Side Down: Arrange the enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish to help maintain their shape while they bake.
- Rest Time: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes post-baking. This makes for cleaner servings and lets flavors marry beautifully.
- Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture. Pre-shredded varieties often have additives that can affect melting quality.
- Meal Prep: Feel free to prep these Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas in advance. Assemble and refrigerate or freeze before baking for an easy, weeknight meal!
What to Serve with Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce?
To elevate your dinner experience, consider pairing these enchiladas with some delightful side dishes that complement their creamy goodness.
- Mexican Rice: A classic companion, the fluffy rice absorbs the vibrant flavors of the enchiladas, creating a satisfying meal that fills the plate beautifully.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans add a lovely texture and balance the spice, making each bite more layered and delectable.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh and zesty, this salsa adds bright acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness of the enchiladas and refreshing your palate.
- Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole pairs perfectly, offering a cool contrast to the warm enchiladas while adding a delightful avocado element.
- Avocado Salad: A light salad with ripe avocados, tomatoes, and lime juice brings a fresh touch, enhancing the meal’s flavors while keeping it healthy.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn complements the savory enchiladas, creating a fun, summery vibe with every bite.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Elevate your dish with fluffy rice that’s flavored with cilantro and lime, giving a refreshing citrus twist that pairs wonderfully.
- Chilled Fruit Salad: For dessert, a light fruit salad with berries and melons provides a sweet finish, cleansing your palate and ending the meal on a refreshing note.
Storage Tips for Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
- Fridge: Store leftover enchiladas covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure they are in an airtight container to retain moisture and flavor.
- Freezer: Freeze enchiladas before baking for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Reheat refrigerated enchiladas covered at 350°F for 20 minutes, or bake directly from frozen for 45 minutes. This will ensure they are warmed through and delicious.
- Serving Freshness: For the best texture, enjoy your Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce soon after cooking, but they still make a great meal as leftovers!
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists and swaps that can make this dish uniquely yours!
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Ground Beef: Swap ground turkey with lean ground beef for a heartier flavor profile. The richness of beef beautifully complements the creamy sauce.
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Vegetarian: Replace turkey with black beans or lentils, making sure to season well. This twist is both protein-packed and satisfying!
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Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for a surprising flavor change. Each cheese offers a distinct taste that can elevate your meal.
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Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick. The heat can excite your taste buds and add dimension to every bite.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and cheese with vegan alternatives for a dairy-free version. Enjoy creamy goodness without the dairy!
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Zucchini or Spinach: Mix in diced zucchini or fresh spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and a pop of color. These additions can make your enchiladas feel light and vibrant.
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Salsa Swap: For the white sauce, consider using chipotle salsa for a smoky flavor twist. This simple change can create a whole new layer of complexity in the dish.
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Tortilla Choice: Try corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option. The distinct flavor of corn tortillas pairs wonderfully with the savory filling.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the filling and white sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the ground turkey, spices, green onions, chilies, cilantro, and sour cream into the filling, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The white sauce can be whisked together and stored separately to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your enchiladas, warm the tortillas, assemble everything in the baking dish, pour over the sauce, and bake as directed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal in no time!
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground turkey should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using 93/7 ground turkey for optimal flavor and moisture in your enchiladas. If you prefer a little leaner option, 85/15 works well too. You can also substitute it with ground chicken; it offers a similar texture and taste!
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
You can store your leftover Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to cover them with foil or place them in an airtight container. This keeps them moist and ready for a delicious reheat!
Can I freeze the enchiladas? How do I do it?
Very much! You can freeze the enchiladas before baking them for up to 3 months. Wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn, ensuring they maintain their delicious flavors. Label them with the date so you can keep track!
What should I do if my enchiladas stick to the baking dish?
If you’ve experienced sticking, it could be due to not greasing the dish well enough. Always grease the baking dish thoroughly, and consider using parchment paper for easier clean-up. To fix sticking while serving, use a silicone spatula to gently lift the enchiladas without tearing them.
Are these enchiladas suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, they are not dairy-free due to the sour cream, cheese, and heavy cream in the recipe. However, you can easily modify the recipe using dairy alternatives—coconut cream for the heavy cream and cashew cheese can create a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
Can I add more veggies to the filling?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! Adding black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers can boost the nutrients and add a delightful flavor. Just be mindful not to overfill the tortillas to avoid tearing.
Delicious Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- - Large bowl
- microwave
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb Ground Turkey Opt for 93/7 for moisture and flavor.
- 4 oz Chilies Choose mild or hot as per preference.
- 1 cup Sour Cream Divided; using quality brands enhances flavor.
- 1 tsp Cumin Infuses a warm aroma.
- 1 tsp Ancho Chili Powder Gives a rich, smoky depth.
- 4 Green Onions Use both white and green parts.
- 0.25 cup Cilantro Finely chopped.
For the Enchiladas
- 2.75 cups Monterey Jack Cheese Choose freshly shredded for the best result.
- 12 Flour Tortillas Warming prevents cracking.
For the White Sauce
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream Forms the luscious base.
- 0.5 cup Salsa Verde Delivers tanginess and spice.
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder Amplifies flavor.
Instructions
How to Make Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped green onions, cilantro, chilies, spices, and 0.5 cup of sour cream. Mix gently, then season to taste.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sour cream, heavy cream, salsa verde, cumin, garlic powder, and seasoning until smooth.
- Place the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds each.
- Spoon 1/3 cup of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in the greased baking dish.
- Pour the creamy white sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let your enchiladas rest for about 5 minutes before serving.