Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Sliced avocado; Chopped cilantro; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Worldly Creations

I absolutely love making this Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect meal for when I’m short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying. The combination of seasoned ground turkey, vibrant veggies, and zesty enchilada sauce creates a hearty dish that bursts with flavor. Plus, it can be easily customized to include whatever toppings I have on hand, from cheese to avocado, making it a versatile favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:48:45.923Z

When I first tried making this skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The secret is in using lean ground turkey, which cooks faster than beef and absorbs the delicious enchilada sauce beautifully. After a few tweaks, I found the perfect balance of spices that really brings the dish to life.

What I love most about this recipe is its flexibility. I can easily add in whatever vegetables I have in my fridge, whether it's bell peppers, zucchini, or even leftover corn. With a sprinkle of cilantro and some fresh lime juice, it feels like a meal from my favorite Mexican restaurant, but made right at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Packed with flavor from vibrant spices and enchilada sauce
Customizable with your favorite toppings and veggies
A healthy twist on traditional enchiladas with lean ground turkey

Customizing Your Skillet

One of the best aspects of this Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet is its versatility. You can easily switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. For instance, zucchini, spinach, or black beans would all make fantastic additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you add more ingredients; softer veggies like spinach require less time in the skillet compared to firmer ones like zucchini.

If you're looking for a little extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce when you stir in the enchilada sauce. This enhances the spiciness of the dish without compromising the overall flavor profile. For those who enjoy a smokier taste, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth to the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish is wonderful for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend letting the skillet cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup, which could make the enchilada skillet soggy. If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes well too; just freeze in a single-serving portion in freezer-safe containers.

When reheating, the best method is stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. If you're short on time, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover the container with a microwave-safe lid to maintain moisture. For even better flavor, consider adding a splash of fresh enchilada sauce when reheating.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Sliced avocado
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges

Instructions

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Stir in Spices and Sauce

Sprinkle the chili powder and cumin over the turkey and vegetable mixture, and stir to combine. Pour in the enchilada sauce and corn, mixing well.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for an extra zing.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the skillet. You can also substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef, depending on your preference.

Ingredient Roles

The ground turkey is the star protein of this dish, providing a lean alternative to beef or pork while still being rich in flavor. It's essential to cook it well until it's browned to develop those savory, fond bits that add depth to the skillet’s sauce. Seasoning it properly with chili powder and cumin ramps up the dish's flavor profile significantly, so don’t skip this step.

The enchilada sauce is crucial for tying everything together, offering just the right amount of zest and moisture. If you don’t have store-bought enchilada sauce, you can create a quick version with tomato sauce, chili powder, and cumin for a homemade touch.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, I love to pile on the toppings to enhance both flavor and texture. Shredded cheese adds creaminess that beautifully melts on top of the hot skillet, while sour cream contributes a refreshing coolness that balances the spices. Avocado provides a buttery finish and is packed with healthy fats, making it a perfect match for this hearty dish.

If you're hosting a small gathering or want to make it a themed meal, consider serving this skillet with tortilla chips for dipping, or alongside warm tortillas for a fun build-your-own enchilada night. You can personalize each plate, ensuring everyone gets just what they like.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the turkey mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you choose a gluten-free enchilada sauce, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ Can I add beans to the skillet?

Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition for extra protein and fiber.

→ What can I serve it with?

This skillet pairs wonderfully with rice, tortilla chips, or wrapped in tortillas to create actual enchiladas.