Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make Mexican ground turkey recipes! Whether you’re a taco Tuesday enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration for a quick dinner, we’ve got you covered. From classic tacos and quesadillas to creative twists like stuffed peppers and burrito bowls, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite Mexican-inspired recipes that feature ground turkey as the star of the show. We’re talking bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a whole lot of deliciousness packed into every bite. So grab your apron, put on some mariachi music, and get ready to cook up a storm!
Spicy Mexican Turkey Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spices of Mexico with lean turkey and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Easy Turkey Taco Skillet
A flavorful and filling meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This skillet combines juicy turkey, crunchy veggies, and savory seasonings for a delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until veggies are tender.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add canned tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning turkey mixture onto tortillas and topping with cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Turkey Enchiladas
Savor the rich flavors of Mexico with this hearty and satisfying dish featuring ground turkey, cheese, and tortillas wrapped up in a spicy enchilada sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning turkey mixture onto tortillas, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Tostadas
Elevate your taco Tuesday with this twist on a classic: crispy tostadas topped with flavorful turkey, creamy black beans, and tangy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cumin and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tostadas by spreading turkey mixture on each tortilla, followed by black beans and shredded cheese.
7. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Mexican Turkey and Rice
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this quick and easy one-pan dish, featuring juicy turkey, flavorful rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, black beans, or shredded cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Add uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with spices and oil.
7. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine.
8. Return turkey to the skillet and stir to coat with rice and sauce mixture.
9. Cover skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Turkey Chorizo Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast burritos by combining the spicy kick of chorizo with savory turkey and scrambled eggs. These wraps are perfect for a quick morning meal or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons chorizo, crumbled
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, onions, sour cream, and salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the crumbled chorizo and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Scramble in the eggs and stir until fully set. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating for 2-3 minutes in the oven.
6. Assemble burritos by filling warmed tortillas with turkey-chorizo mixture, shredded cheese, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps
Add a twist to traditional tacos with these refreshing lettuce wraps filled with flavorful turkey, crunchy veggies, and zesty sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (Romaine or Butter Lettuce)
– Zesty Taco Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a lettuce leaf on each plate.
3. Spoon the turkey mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf.
4. Drizzle with Zesty Taco Sauce.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use leftover cooked turkey or cook fresh turkey breast for this recipe.
– Adjust the amount of zesty sauce to your taste.
– Add some diced jalapeños for extra spice!
Creamy Turkey Quesadillas
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these creamy turkey quesadillas! Tender shredded turkey, melted cheese, and a hint of spice come together in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large tortillas
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (about 1 cup)
• Optional: sour cream, salsa, and cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cream cheese, green chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total, including flipping.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Empanadas
These sweet and savory empanadas are perfect for a snack or light meal. Flaky pastry pockets filled with tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced turkey breast
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, sweet potato, onion, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Seal edges with a fork.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Turkey Nachos Supreme
Elevate your snack game with this loaded turkey nacho recipe, featuring juicy turkey, creamy cheese, and a medley of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix diced turkey, black beans, red bell pepper, and jalapeño.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the tortilla chips, followed by the turkey mixture.
5. Top with remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Corn Stuffed Poblano Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory goodness of turkey and corn with the rich flavor of roasted poblano peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then cut a slit down one side of each pepper to create a pocket.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add corn kernels, breadcrumbs, and cheese to the skillet with the turkey. Cook until combined and heated through.
6. Stuff each poblano pepper with the turkey-corn mixture, dividing evenly among the four peppers.
7. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Mexican Turkey Meatball Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and comforting soup that combines the rich taste of turkey meatballs with the bold spices of Mexico. This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the baked turkey meatballs to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Taco Salad
A fresh twist on traditional taco salad, this recipe combines the flavors of grilled turkey, creamy avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill turkey breast for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled cheese.
4. Slice grilled turkey into thin strips and add to the bowl.
5. Top with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Verde
A twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines ground turkey with roasted green chilies and a blend of spices to create a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can come home to a warm and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted green chilies, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, green chilies, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the cooked turkey, diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the water and stir well to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
This flavorful recipe combines tender turkey and quinoa with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers. Perfect as a main course or as a healthy snack, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and top each pepper with cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoky Turkey Taco Pasta Bake
Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on traditional pasta bakes! This Smoky Turkey Taco Pasta Bake combines the comforting warmth of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie)
– 1 lb. ground turkey
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with cilantro and crushed tortilla chips (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Pinto Bean Burrito Bowls
This flavorful recipe combines tender turkey, creamy pinto beans, and crunchy vegetables in a delicious burrito bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or a fun twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked pinto beans, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the turkey and bean mixture in bowls and top with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Turkey Tamale Casserole
Get ready to experience the flavors of Mexico without leaving your oven! This Baked Turkey Tamale Casserole is an easy and delicious twist on traditional tamales, packed with turkey, cheese, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and shredded lettuce for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Mix in cooked rice, corn, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate dish, combine diced tomatoes with green chilies and 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
5. Layer ingredients: tortilla quarters, turkey mixture, and tomato mixture; repeat two more times.
6. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Turkey and Spinach Queso Dip
This creamy dip combines the savory flavors of turkey and spinach with melted cheese, perfect for a quick snack or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese and cheddar cheese until smooth.
3. Add cooked turkey breast, chopped spinach, and lemon juice to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your summer meals with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the freshness of zucchini. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, combine turkey, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture.
5. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious Mexican-inspired ground turkey recipes! From classic tacos and enchiladas to stuffed peppers and empanadas, there’s something for everyone. Try Spicy Mexican Turkey Stuffed Peppers, Easy Turkey Taco Skillet, or Cheesy Ground Turkey Enchiladas for a flavorful meal. Or, go for a twist with Turkey Chorizo Breakfast Burritos or Zesty Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps. With these recipes, you’ll never get bored of the same old dinner routine. So, gather your ingredients and start cooking up some fiesta flavors!