The first time I took a bite of Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce, I was struck by how a simple twist on a classic could evoke such excitement at the dinner table. The heavenly aroma wafting through the kitchen promised comfort and joy, instantly transporting me to my favorite family gatherings. With their creamy, tangy sauce and flavorful ground turkey filling, these enchiladas strike the perfect balance between indulgence and lightness, making them an ideal choice for anyone craving a hearty meal without the guilt.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; whether I’m serving a crowd or preparing a cozy weeknight feast, these enchiladas can be made ahead of time, reducing stress and ensuring quality moments with loved ones. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in lean protein while keeping everyone satisfied. Join me as we dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will soon become your go-to for family-friendly dining!
Why love Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas?
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite!
Comforting and Creamy: The luscious white sauce brings a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone will adore.
Lean Protein: Packed with ground turkey, you’ll enjoy a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on taste!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these enchiladas in advance, saving you time on busy weeknights so you can focus on your family.
Versatility at Its Best: Easily customize with your favorite fillings or spice levels to cater to all taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; these enchiladas bring smiles to the table and keep bellies happy!
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas Ingredients
Get ready to create mouthwatering Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce that’ll be a hit at any gathering!
For the Filling
- Ground Turkey – Lean protein option; choose 85/15 for a moist filling.
- Chilies – Adds a kick; use canned or fresh per your spice preference.
- Sour Cream (0.5 cup) – Offers tang; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Cumin (0.75 tsp) & Ancho Chili Powder (1 tsp) – The perfect seasoning duo for depth of flavor.
- Green Onions (4) – Brings freshness; utilize both white and green parts.
- Cilantro (0.25 cup) – Adds a burst of herbaceous brightness; optional if not a fan.
For the Sauce
- Heavy Cream (1.5 cups) – Creates a rich, creamy base; reduce for a lighter version.
- Salsa Verde (0.5 cup) – Infuses authentic flavor; swap with green enchilada sauce if needed.
- Garlic Powder (0.5 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
For Assembly
- Monterey Jack Cheese (2.75 cups total) – Melts beautifully for creaminess; other options include Cheddar or Pepper Jack for additional kick.
- Flour Tortillas (12) – The perfect wrap; use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to whip up a delectable dish that everyone will love!
How to Make Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Combine the filling ingredients in a large bowl. Mix ground turkey, chilies, sour cream, cumin, ancho chili powder, green onions, cilantro, and add salt and pepper to taste. Aim for a well-blended mixture for even flavors.
Whisk the white sauce ingredients. In a separate bowl, blend sour cream, heavy cream, salsa verde, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. This sauce will elevate your enchiladas!
Warm the tortillas. Microwave them for about 30 seconds until they are pliable. This step is crucial to avoid cracking when rolling.
Fill each tortilla with about 1/3 cup of the turkey mixture. Roll them up tight and place seam-side down in the greased baking dish. Arrange them snugly for the best presentation.
Pour the prepared white sauce generously over the enchiladas. Top with Monterey Jack cheese, ensuring an even layer for perfect melting.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. You’re looking for that perfect, inviting appearance!
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the enchiladas to set, making for cleaner cuts and a more enjoyable dining experience.
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro or a drizzle of salsa verde for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
Warm Tortillas: Always warm your flour tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to prevent them from cracking while rolling.
Filling Mastery: Avoid overfilling the tortillas to prevent them from spilling during baking. Stick to about 1/3 cup of filling per tortilla for best results.
Bake with Care: Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 20 minutes to allow the enchiladas to steam, then uncover to achieve that golden, bubbly top.
Resting Period: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps the enchiladas set for cleaner cuts and easier serving.
Extra Freshness: Consider drizzling extra salsa verde over the top before serving for a zesty kick, complementing your Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the filling and the white sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Assemble the enchiladas by filling the tortillas, covering them with the sauce, and topping with cheese just before baking. For the best results, allow them to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing them in a preheated oven. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade dish that’s still delicious after a busy day, letting you focus more on family time!
What to Serve with Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful side dishes that complete this flavorful family favorite.
Mexican Rice: A fluffy and savory base, offering a comforting contrast to the creamy enchiladas. It’s the perfect soak for any extra sauce!
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, these beans add a rich texture and are the ideal accompaniment to balance the meal.
Avocado Salad: Fresh and crisp, this salad brings a burst of color and flavor, enhancing the meal’s lightness while adding a refreshing crunch.
Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: A fun, crunchy side that pairs perfectly with the creamy enchiladas. It invites everyone to dig in!
Pico de Gallo: This zesty salsa made from fresh tomatoes, onion, and cilantro adds brightness that beautifully complements the earthy flavors in the enchiladas.
Churros: For a sweet finish! The cinnamon-sugar coating provides a delightful contrast to the savory enchiladas, wrapping up the meal on a happy note.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the enchiladas cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for future meals!
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through, ensuring your Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce are deliciously warm.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover well, and store in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas Variations
Feel free to get creative with these enchiladas, adding your personal touch and flavors to suit your family’s taste!
- Ground Chicken: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken for a similar lean protein option that offers a slightly different flavor.
- Ground Beef: For those who love red meat, using lean ground beef will result in a heartier filling that still keeps the dish satisfying.
- Corn Tortillas: Switch to corn tortillas for a gluten-free version that adds a different texture and flavor to your enchiladas.
- Black Beans: Mix in black beans to the filling for added protein, fiber, and a delightful texture contrast. They’ll complement the ground turkey beautifully.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the filling to sneak in extra vegetables and create a more colorful dish.
- Spicy Kick: Spice it up by incorporating jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture or as a topping for those who like it fiery!
- Cheese Options: Experiment with Cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for varied flavors and heat levels; you’ll discover new favorites!
- Greek Yogurt: Swap out sour cream in the filling or sauce with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and added protein, making this dish even healthier.
These variations make every batch unique, ensuring delightful dinners that never feel repetitive!
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground turkey should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using ground turkey that’s 85% lean (85/15) for moisture; this will keep your enchiladas flavorful. Avoid 99% fat-free turkey, as it may turn out dry and less satisfying.
How do I store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftover Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain optimal freshness.
Can I freeze enchiladas?
Of course! To freeze, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 20 minutes until heated through.
What if my tortillas crack while rolling?
No worries! If you find your tortillas cracking, try warming them a bit longer in the microwave—about 30-45 seconds—until they’re more pliable. You can also consider using a damp paper towel to wrap the tortillas while reheating; this steams them and makes them more manageable for rolling.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you have gluten sensitivities, swap out flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. And if someone in your household has a dairy allergy, you can substitute the sour cream and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut cream. Always be sure to check ingredient labels for hidden allergens!
Baked Ground Turkey Enchiladas with White Sauce Bliss
Equipment
- - 9×13-inch baking dish
- - Large bowl
- microwave
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb Ground Turkey Choose 85/15 for a moist filling
- 1 cup Chilies Canned or fresh per spice preference
- 0.5 cup Sour Cream Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 0.75 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Ancho Chili Powder
- 4 Green Onions Use both white and green parts
- 0.25 cup Cilantro Optional if not a fan
For the Sauce
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream Reduce for a lighter version
- 0.5 cup Salsa Verde Swap with green enchilada sauce if needed
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
For Assembly
- 2.75 cups Monterey Jack Cheese Other options include Cheddar or Pepper Jack
- 12 Flour Tortillas Use corn tortillas for gluten-free
Instructions
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Combine the filling ingredients in a large bowl.
- Whisk the white sauce ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/3 cup of the turkey mixture.
- Pour the prepared white sauce generously over the enchiladas.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.