Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas Recipe

Get ready to savor the delectable flavors of this Mexican favorite with a twist. These creamy turkey and cheese enchiladas are packed with succulent turkey, vibrant bell peppers, and melty cheese, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. With a kick of spice from chipotle and ancho chile peppers, this dish promises a culinary adventure in every bite.

Photos of Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that might not usually be in your pantry, such as chipotle and ancho chile peppers. These are types of dried chiles that offer a distinctive smoky flavor and mild to medium heat. They can usually be found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. If you're unable to find them, you can substitute with regular chili powder.

Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas Ingredients

Butter: A dairy product used for sautéing the veggies and adding a rich flavor.

Olive oil: Used for cooking and sautéing, it imparts a subtle flavor.

Onion and bell peppers: These veggies add a crunch and sweetness to the dish.

Spices (kosher salt, black pepper, chipotle pepper, ancho pepper, cumin, paprika): They add a depth of flavor and spicy kick to the enchiladas.

Sour cream, heavy cream, and cream cheese: These dairy products make the enchiladas rich and creamy.

Turkey: The main protein in this dish, turkey is flavorful and lean.

Cheddar cheese: This cheese melts well and adds a tangy flavor.

Hot pepper sauce: Adds a spicy kick. Adjust according to your preference.

Corn tortillas: The vessel for the enchilada filling. Corn tortillas add a nice flavor and hold up well.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the tortillas to make them pliable.

One reader, Duke Rincon says:

This creamy turkey and cheese enchiladas recipe is a game-changer! The creamy sauce is a delightful twist, and the combination of flavors is simply divine. It's a crowd-pleaser and has become a family favorite. I highly recommend trying it out for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Duke Rincon

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

Preheat an oven to 375 degrees f (190 degrees c): This step is essential to ensure that the oven reaches the correct temperature for baking the enchiladas.

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat: This is the first step in sautéing the onions and bell peppers, which helps to release their flavors and aromas.

Stir in the onion and chopped green, yellow, and orange bell peppers: This helps to evenly distribute the vegetables in the skillet for even cooking.

Add the kosher salt, black pepper, chipotle pepper, ancho pepper, cumin, and paprika: Adding the spices at this stage allows them to toast and release their flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Pour in the sour cream and heavy cream, and add the cream cheese: This step involves combining the dairy ingredients to create a creamy and rich sauce for the enchiladas.

Divide mixture, and reserve half for topping: This ensures that there is enough creamy sauce to both fill and top the enchiladas.

Combine shredded turkey with 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese in a large bowl: This step is crucial for mixing the filling ingredients thoroughly.

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until the oil is hot but not smoking: Properly heating the oil is important for softening the corn tortillas and making them pliable for rolling.

Slide one tortilla at a time into the oil and allow to heat through: This step ensures that the tortillas are heated evenly and become pliable for rolling.

To assemble the enchiladas, place 1/4 cup of creamy turkey filling in a line down the center of each tortilla: Properly assembling the enchiladas ensures that they are filled evenly and rolled tightly.

Sprinkle each with about 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Evenly distributing the cheese topping ensures that each enchilada is covered with a delicious layer of melted cheese.

Let stand about 10 minutes to rest before serving: Allowing the enchiladas to rest before serving helps to set the dish and allows the flavors to meld together.

How To Make Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas

These cream cheese enchiladas are made with shredded turkey leftovers put together with a decent amount of cream, finished off with melted cheese on top.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total: 1 hour 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspbutter
3tbspolive oil
1large onion,chopped
1green bell pepper,chopped
1yellow bell pepper,chopped
1orange bell pepper,chopped
2tspkosher salt
2tspground black pepper
½tspground chipotle chile pepper
½tspground ancho chile pepper
2tspground cumin
1½tsppaprika
1cupsour cream
⅓cupheavy cream
8ozcream cheese,(1 package) cut into pieces
5cupsturkey,cooked, shredded
2½cupscheddar cheese,shredded
1tsphot pepper sauce,or to taste
22corn tortillas,6 inches
1cupvegetable oil,for frying
1½cupscheddar cheese,shredded, divided

Instructions

Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F. Grease two 9×12-inch baking pans.
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Stir in the onion and chopped green, yellow, and orange bell peppers; cook and stir until the peppers have softened and the onion has turned translucent for about 10 minutes.
Add the kosher salt, black pepper, chipotle pepper, ancho pepper, cumin, and paprika. Cook and stir until seasonings start to become fragrant for about 5 more minutes.
Pour in the sour cream and heavy cream, and add the cream cheese. Stir well to combine, and cook over low heat until mixture is heated through and creamy for about 5 minutes.
Remove pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes. Divide mixture, and reserve half for topping.
Combine shredded turkey with 2½ cups of shredded Cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Add in half of the cooled cream and pepper mixture, and stir lightly to mix. Set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until the oil is hot but not smoking for about 2 minutes.
Slide one tortilla at a time into the oil and allow to heat through for about 20 to 30 seconds until the tortilla is hot and pliable. Stack the warmed tortillas and cover to retain heat.

To assemble the enchiladas:

Place ¼ cup of creamy turkey filling in a line down the center of each tortilla, roll the tortillas, and lay 11 enchiladas, seam sides down, into each prepared baking dish.
Top each dish with half of the reserved cream and pepper mixture. Bake the pans in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until enchiladas are heated through and the sauce begins to brown and bubble.
Remove the pans from the oven, sprinkle each with about ¾ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, and return to the oven to finish baking for about 15 more minutes, until topping is melted, browned, and bubbling.
Let stand for about 10 minutes to rest before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 720.12kcal
Fat: 57.27g
Saturated Fat: 20.49g
Trans Fat: 0.81g
Monounsaturated Fat: 25.09g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.34g
Carbohydrates: 25.58g
Fiber: 3.74g
Sugar: 3.13g
Protein: 28.01g
Cholesterol: 134.33mg
Sodium: 618.28mg
Calcium: 395.86mg
Potassium: 413.03mg
Iron: 1.75mg
Vitamin A: 307.06µg
Vitamin C: 50.62mg

Helpful Technique for Making Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

When heating the tortillas in vegetable oil, ensure the oil is hot but not smoking. This will make the tortillas pliable and easy to roll without them becoming too greasy or crispy. Also, when assembling the enchiladas, be careful not to overfill them. A quarter cup of the creamy turkey filling is just enough to allow for a tight roll, which will prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Enchiladas

Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and cream and pepper mixture a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Use rotisserie turkey: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie turkey instead of cooking and shredding the turkey yourself.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line to fill and roll the enchiladas, making the process more efficient.

Freeze for later: Make a double batch and freeze the extra enchiladas for a quick and convenient meal in the future.

Uniform shape: Roll the enchiladas to a uniform size for even cooking and a professional presentation.

Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas Recipe

butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe to achieve a similar creamy texture and flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil to maintain the dish's moisture and prevent sticking.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions to add a milder, sweeter flavor to the dish.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers to add a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers can be used as a substitute for yellow bell peppers to provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
orange bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for orange bell peppers to add a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt to provide a similar level of salinity to the dish.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper to add a milder, slightly earthy flavor to the dish.
ground chipotle chile pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can be used as a substitute for chipotle chile pepper to provide a smoky flavor and mild heat.
ground ancho chile pepper - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can be used as a substitute for ancho chile pepper to add a similar level of heat and earthy flavor to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin to provide a similar warm, citrusy flavor to the dish.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can be used as a substitute for paprika to add a smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream to provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for heavy cream to add a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cream cheese to provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
turkey - Substitute with chicken: Chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey to provide a similar meaty texture and flavor.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar cheese to provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
hot pepper sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for hot pepper sauce to add a similar level of heat and tangy flavor to the dish.
corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas to provide a softer, more pliable texture to the dish.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil to provide a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar cheese to add a similar creamy texture and spicy kick to the dish.

Presenting Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

Elevate the enchiladas with a drizzle of chipotle cream sauce: Create a visually stunning plate by drizzling a smoky and spicy chipotle cream sauce over the creamy turkey and cheese enchiladas. The vibrant color and bold flavors will add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños: Add a pop of freshness and a hint of heat to the enchiladas by garnishing with vibrant cilantro leaves and thinly sliced jalapeños. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a burst of flavor to each bite.
Incorporate a side of avocado and tomato salsa: Present a side of zesty avocado and tomato salsa in a small, elegant dish alongside the enchiladas. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors of the salsa will complement the richness of the dish, offering a delightful contrast.
Arrange the enchiladas on a bed of shredded lettuce and radicchio: Create a visually appealing base for the enchiladas by arranging them on a bed of vibrant shredded lettuce and radicchio. This adds a layer of freshness and texture to the presentation, elevating the overall aesthetic.
Accentuate with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco: Add a finishing touch to the enchiladas by sprinkling them with crumbled queso fresco. The creamy and slightly tangy cheese will not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the complex flavors of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Enchiladas

Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Skillet: Used for sautéing and cooking the peppers and onions for the enchilada filling.
Large baking pans: Used for baking the enchiladas in the oven.
Large skillet: Used for heating the tortillas and assembling the enchiladas.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining the turkey, cheese, and creamy filling for the enchiladas.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying the tortillas to make them pliable for rolling.
Oven: Used for baking the assembled enchiladas.
Spatula: Used for flipping and transferring the tortillas while heating them in the skillet.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring the ingredients for the recipe.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for creamy turkey and cheese enchiladas:

Refrigerating: If you have any leftover enchiladas, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the enchiladas to an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the enchiladas will last for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze the enchiladas for longer storage, wrap each enchilada individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen enchiladas can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating from the refrigerator: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the desired number of enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Reheating from frozen: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and crisp up.
Topping: If you have any leftover cream cheese and pepper mixture, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating the enchiladas, you can spoon some of the reserved topping over them before baking for added flavor and creaminess.

How To Reheat Leftover Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and the edges to crisp up slightly.
If you have a microwave-safe dish with a lid, you can reheat the enchiladas in the microwave. Place them in the dish, cover, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the tortillas to become tough and rubbery.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the enchiladas in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Place the enchiladas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the enchiladas and achieve a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the enchiladas in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat individual portions of the enchiladas in the microwave. Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. This method is best for a quick lunch or snack.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

The enchiladas recipe is a popular Mexican dish that has evolved over time, with various regional and international influences shaping its ingredients and preparation methods.

Is This Enchilada Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this creamy turkey and cheese enchiladas recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. The use of turkey and cheddar cheese may be more economical compared to other meats and cheeses. However, the inclusion of sour cream, cream cheese, and various spices could increase the overall cost. Considering the portion size and the average cost of ingredients, this recipe could be moderately cost-effective for a household of four. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of four people would be around $25-$30.

Are Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy turkey and cheese enchilada recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in saturated fat due to the generous amounts of butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream used in the filling and sauce. Additionally, the recipe calls for a significant amount of cheese, which further contributes to the high fat content. The use of vegetable oil for frying the tortillas also adds to the overall calorie count.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the butter and vegetable oil with healthier alternatives like olive oil or avocado oil
Use low-fat or non-fat versions of sour cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese to reduce the saturated fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the filling, such as adding more bell peppers or incorporating other nutrient-dense options like spinach or zucchini
Opt for whole wheat or low-carb tortillas instead of traditional corn tortillas to increase the fiber content and reduce the overall carbohydrate count
Bake the tortillas instead of frying them to minimize the added fat from the cooking process
Serve the enchiladas with a side salad or other vegetable-based dishes to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

Editor's Opinion on This Enchilada Recipe

The combination of creamy turkey, cheddar cheese, and a flavorful blend of spices in this enchilada recipe creates a delicious and satisfying dish. The creamy sauce adds richness and depth of flavor, while the bell peppers provide a pop of color and freshness. The method of frying the tortillas adds a delightful texture, and the final touch of melted cheddar cheese on top brings everything together perfectly. This recipe is a wonderful twist on traditional enchiladas and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Enhance Your Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the flavorful enchiladas.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, charred corn on the cob with a smoky flavor that complements the creamy and spicy enchiladas.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy enchiladas.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, it's a comforting and satisfying meal.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty citrus blend, this grilled chicken is bursting with flavor. It's the perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: These fish tacos are topped with a refreshing mango salsa that adds a tropical twist to a classic dish. They're light, flavorful, and perfect for a summer meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Turkey and Cheese Enchiladas

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are a delightful way to start any meal. Light and flavorful, they are the perfect finger food for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry glaze and fresh sliced strawberries for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, featuring succulent turkey and rich cheddar cheese enveloped in warm corn tortillas. The creamy sauce, made with sour cream, cream cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices, adds a luscious touch. The use of vibrant bell peppers infuses the dish with a colorful and nutritious element. With a balance of heat from chipotle chile and ancho chile, this recipe promises to tantalize the taste buds and bring a touch of excitement to the dining table.

If you enjoyed this Turkey Cream Cheese Enchiladas Recipe, be sure to share your thoughts and experiences with it in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken instead of turkey in this recipe. Simply substitute an equal amount of cooked, shredded chicken for the turkey, and the dish will turn out just as delicious.

Can I prepare the enchiladas in advance and bake them later?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Can I freeze the enchiladas for later?

Yes, you can freeze the enchiladas for later. After assembling the enchiladas, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, allow the enchiladas to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the turkey and using a mix of sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini, corn, and black beans, as the filling. You can also add some cooked quinoa or rice for extra substance.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the enchiladas?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the ground chipotle and ancho chile peppers. On the other hand, if you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of these spices or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.