Oven-Baked Turkey-Spinach Enchiladas Extraordinaire
Recipe by Love With Recipes
When it comes to satisfying your hunger and delighting your taste buds, these Oven-Baked Turkey-Spinach Enchiladas Extraordinaire are truly a game-changer. Packed with lean turkey, savory spices, creamy cream cheese, and hearty spinach, this recipe gives a fresh twist on a classic Mexican favorite. Perfect for lunch or as a tasty snack, these enchiladas will quickly become a family favorite.
The combination of tender ground turkey and the bold flavors of cumin, garlic, and picante sauce are all wrapped in soft flour tortillas, baked to perfection, and topped with cheddar cheese. Plus, the creamy filling, rich with cream cheese and the surprise addition of spinach, makes each bite a satisfying experience.
Ready in just under an hour, this easy-to-follow recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for a future feast. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy lunch, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and flavor into every bite.
Ingredients
This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 lb |
| Onion (diced) | 1/4 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3–4 cloves |
| Frozen spinach (thawed and drained) | 2 cups |
| Ground cumin | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Fresh ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (1 block) |
| Flour tortillas | 6 (8-inch) |
| Tomatoes (diced) | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Lettuce (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Black olives (sliced) | 1/2 cup |
| Avocado (sliced) | 1/2 avocado |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Total Fat | 36.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 133.6 mg |
| Sodium | 1154.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.2 g |
| Sugars | 7.6 g |
| Protein | 27.1 g |
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the enchiladas perfectly. -
Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. This will prevent the enchiladas from sticking to the pan while baking. -
Cook the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic (if using), cooking until the turkey is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure it is evenly browned and crumbled. -
Add Spinach, Spices, and Tomatoes
Stir in the thawed and drained spinach, followed by 1 cup of picante sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cumin, salt, and the diced tomatoes (drain the tomatoes slightly for a thicker filling). Continue to cook and stir the mixture for about 5 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated and the filling thickens. -
Add Cream Cheese
Add the cream cheese to the turkey-spinach mixture and stir until the cream cheese melts and combines smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a creamy, flavorful filling. -
Prepare the Tortillas
Warm the tortillas slightly (either in the microwave or by placing them on a dry skillet for 10 seconds per side) to make them more pliable. This step will help avoid tearing when rolling the tortillas with the filling. -
Fill the Tortillas
Take a warmed tortilla and spoon approximately 1/3 cup of the turkey-spinach filling down the center of the tortilla. Carefully roll up the tortilla, tucking in the sides as you go, and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. -
Top the Enchiladas
In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of picante sauce and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. Pour this mixture over the rolled-up enchiladas in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spoon. -
Bake the Enchiladas
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the enchiladas are heated through and bubbling around the edges. -
Add the Cheddar Cheese
Once the enchiladas are fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. -
Garnish and Serve
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with your choice of garnishes, such as fresh shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy the flavorful goodness!
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Toppings: The toppings for these enchiladas are versatile—feel free to add a sprinkle of cilantro, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
- Add More Veggies: Want to make these enchiladas even heartier? Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the filling for added flavor and texture.
Enjoy Your Oven-Baked Turkey-Spinach Enchiladas Extraordinaire!
This recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine while keeping things light and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a tasty lunch, a comforting dinner, or a flavorful snack, these enchiladas are the perfect choice. Enjoy the rich combination of turkey, spinach, and spices wrapped in soft tortillas, topped with gooey cheese and fresh garnishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?
Yes, ground chicken or lean beef would work well in this recipe as alternatives to turkey. Adjust cooking times if necessary depending on the meat used.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For those who enjoy heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of chili powder to the filling, or top the enchiladas with a spicy salsa or hot sauce before serving.
Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they are fully heated through.
Make these Oven-Baked Turkey-Spinach Enchiladas Extraordinaire your next go-to recipe for a wholesome and flavorful meal. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
