Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these mouthwatering ground turkey Mexican recipes! As a twist on traditional beef or chicken dishes, ground turkey provides a leaner and equally delicious alternative for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful and spicy recipes that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico without leaving your kitchen.
From classic tacos and enchiladas to creative takes on nachos and lasagna, these ground turkey Mexican recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices, tangy flavors, or rich textures, we’ve got you covered with our carefully curated list of dishes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of [insert title here: “20 Flavorful Ground Turkey Mexican Recipes Spicy & Delicious”]. So grab a fork, gather your loved ones, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure south of the border!
Ground Turkey Mexican Skillet
This flavorful one-pot dish combines ground turkey with the bold flavors of Mexico, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a nutritious and satisfying meal ready to go.
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 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and spicy ground turkey recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the canned tomatoes with green chilies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the ground turkey mixture onto tortillas and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Enchiladas Verde
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground turkey with the bright, tangy taste of tomatillos and jalapeños. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (10 oz) tomatillos, drained and chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice, cilantro, tomatillos, and jalapeño.
5. Brush tortillas with oil and fill each with about 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture.
6. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mexican Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of ground turkey with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Taco Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this flavorful Ground Turkey Taco Salad! This recipe is a twist on the classic taco salad, featuring juicy ground turkey and crunchy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salsa, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the turkey is fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the taco seasoning to the turkey mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, black beans, and cooked ground turkey.
4. Top with tortilla chips and shredded cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Chorizo Breakfast Burritos
Elevate your breakfast game with this bold and satisfying recipe that combines the savory flavors of turkey chorizo, scrambled eggs, and gooey cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook turkey and chorizo in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Scramble eggs in a separate bowl; set aside.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning turkey mixture, scrambled eggs, and cheese onto each tortilla. Fold and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Quesadillas with Avocado
This recipe combines the savory flavor of ground turkey with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy quesadilla. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Cooking oil or non-stick spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and top with cooked turkey mixture.
4. Fold tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve immediately with sliced avocado and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Turkey Meatball Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and comforting soup that combines the richness of turkey meatballs with the bold spices of Mexico. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 8 oz tortellini
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tortellini. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked turkey meatballs and stir.
6. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey Tostadas
Ground Turkey Tostadas: A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines seasoned ground turkey with crispy tortillas, creamy avocado, and tangy salsa for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tostadas by spooning the turkey mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Nachos
Turkey and Black Bean Nachos Recipe
Elevate your nacho game with this flavorful combination of juicy turkey, creamy black beans, and melted cheese on a bed of crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, black beans, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the turkey-black bean mixture evenly over the chips.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped cilantro over the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Turkey Chiles Rellenos
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional chiles rellenos, swapping beef for ground turkey and adding a burst of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Anaheim peppers
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Roast the peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with vegetable oil. Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is fully cooked.
3. Stuff each roasted pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
4. Fry the stuffed peppers in hot oil until golden brown.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Mexican Turkey Stuffed Zucchini
This flavorful recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the bold flavors of Mexico. A great twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, cooked rice, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four zucchinis.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the zucchinis are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Taco Pizza
Elevate your taco Tuesday with this unique twist on traditional pizza! This recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey, taco seasoning, and melted cheese for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 8 oz pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning to the cooked turkey and stir to combine.
4. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness. Spread the pizza sauce, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Top the sauce with the ground turkey mixture, shredded cheese, cilantro, and red bell pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Corn Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these savory turkey and corn empanadas, perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, corn, and cilantro.
3. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the turkey-corn mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold the other half over filling and press edges with a fork to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Mexican Lasagna
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of lasagna, using ground turkey as a leaner alternative to traditional beef. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, and chili powder.
4. In a separate pot, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of turkey mixture, then noodles, then cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar). Repeat for 3-4 layers.
6. Top with chopped cilantro, if desired.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Spicy Turkey and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers: A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers!
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers, roasted and seeded
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each poblano pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Sopes with Refried Beans
These sopes are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring ground turkey as the main protein source. The combination of crispy tortilla shells topped with savory refried beans, tangy sour cream, and spicy salsa is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet of sopes mix (or 8-10 corn tortillas)
– 1 can refried beans, warmed
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon salsa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Warm refried beans according to package instructions.
4. Cook sopes mix (or tortillas) according to package instructions or fry in hot oil until crispy.
5. Assemble sopes by spreading a spoonful of refried beans on each shell, followed by a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of salsa.
6. Serve immediately, with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Turkey and Potato Hash
Add a south-of-the-border twist to your breakfast routine with this flavorful hash recipe, combining tender turkey, crispy potatoes, and spices. Perfect for brunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Remove turkey from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, then add potatoes, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Add cooked turkey back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey Albondigas in Chipotle Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional Mexican meatballs! This recipe combines the comfort of ground turkey with the bold, smoky flavor of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (14 oz)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, combine chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.
6. Add baked meatballs to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until coated in chipotle sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Tamales
This recipe combines the traditional Mexican tamale with the savory flavors of turkey and cheese, creating a unique and delicious twist. Perfect for a special occasion or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn husks for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer to boiling.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, lard or shortening, and chicken broth. Mix until dough forms.
3. Add shredded turkey, cheese, cumin, salt, and pepper to the dough. Mix well.
4. Lay a corn husk flat on a surface. Place about 1/2 cup of the tamale mixture in the center of the husk.
5. Fold the sides over the filling and roll into a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Steam tamales for 45-60 minutes, or until the dough is firm.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful ground turkey Mexican recipes! From classic dishes like tacos and enchiladas to creative twists like stuffed peppers and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping brunch idea, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of spice levels to suit every taste, you’ll be exploring the bold flavors of Mexico in no time.
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