Name: 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 batch homemade enchilada sauce; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 medium white onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup leftover mashed sweet potato (from 2 small or medium sweet potatoes); 2 cups shredded cooked leftover turkey or chicken breast (about 1 pound); 6 pieces yellow corn tortillas (cut into 1 inch strips); 1 cup 2% Mexican shredded cheese (divided); Cilantro (for serving); green onions (for serving); Greek yogurt/sour cream (for serving)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

You know those evenings when you want something comforting yet quick? That’s where the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet comes in! Picture this: you’ve just finished a busy day, and you open the fridge to find some leftover turkey and a couple of sweet potatoes. Instead of ordering takeout, I decided to whip up this dish that turns those everyday ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma from the skillet make it impossible to resist. I remember the first time I made this; I was amazed at how effortlessly it all came together. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a culinary genius without the fuss.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan

Why This 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet Works

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet is how quickly it comes together. In just thirty minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Utilizing Leftovers

This recipe is a fantastic way to use up all those leftovers from your previous meals. Whether it’s the shredded turkey from last week’s roast or the extra sweet potatoes you didn’t use, this dish really shines in repurposing what you already have.

Flavorful and Satisfying

The mixture of flavors in this skillet is truly delightful. The sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and zesty enchilada sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table.

Customizable and Versatile

Another reason to fall in love with this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap in other ingredients based on what you have on hand. Don’t have turkey? Use chicken or even beans for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!

Healthy Comfort Food

In a world where comfort food often gets a bad rap for being unhealthy, this dish manages to strike a balance. Packed with nutrients from the sweet potatoes and protein from the turkey, it’s a meal you can feel good about eating.

Perfect for Family Meals

Gather the family around for this easy skillet dinner. It’s colorful, delicious, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup!

Key Ingredients for 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet

The ingredients for the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet are not only delicious but also work together beautifully. Each component plays a role, from the creamy mashed sweet potatoes to the savory turkey, creating a dish that is both flavorful and filling. The combination of spices and textures ensures that every bite is enjoyable.

1 batch of homemade enchilada sauce: This will be the star of your dish, infusing it with rich, spicy flavors.
2 teaspoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing, it adds healthy fats and depth to the dish.
1 medium white onion, diced: Onions provide a sweet and savory base flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic qualities.
1 cup leftover mashed sweet potato: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creaminess, making the dish hearty.
2 cups shredded cooked leftover turkey or chicken breast: This protein is the perfect way to utilize leftovers while adding heartiness.
6 yellow corn tortillas, cut into 1 inch strips: These bring texture and authenticity to the recipe.
1 cup 2% Mexican shredded cheese, divided: Cheese adds creamy richness and binds everything together.
Cilantro, green onions, and Greek yogurt/sour cream for serving: These are the finishing touches that enhance the dish with fresh flavors.

The Method for 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet

Making the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet is a breeze. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

First, prepare the enchilada sauce if you’re making it from scratch. Once it’s ready, set it aside to cool. Alternatively, you can opt for 2 cups of store-bought enchilada sauce to save time.
Next, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke; this indicates it’s hot enough.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Now it’s time to add the shredded turkey and spoonfuls of mashed sweet potato into the skillet. Use a spatula to mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the sweet potato breaks down and combines well with the turkey.
Once combined, add the cut corn tortillas and the enchilada sauce. Stir everything together until the tortillas are coated in the sauce and heated through.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and sprinkle in half of the cheese. Stir again and let it simmer for a few minutes. You’ll notice the mixture starting to bubble gently.
After a few minutes, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt, which should take about 5 minutes.
When the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Top it off with fresh cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
Enjoy your hearty 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet with family and friends!

Things Worth Knowing

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out proteins or add in vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the skillet while cooking to prevent burning the garlic.
Cheese Melting: Covering the skillet allows the cheese to melt evenly, creating a creamy top layer.
Leftover Potential: This dish is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be reheated easily!

Customization Ideas

There are endless ways to customize your 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet. Here are some ideas to inspire your cooking:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it out and freeze in individual servings for quick meals later.
Pairing: Try serving this dish with a fresh salad or some homemade guacamole for a complete meal.
Ingredients Swap: Use black beans instead of turkey for a vegetarian option.
Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite cheese, or try a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or chili powder to the skillet for an extra kick!
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like parsley or chives to change the flavor profile.

What to Serve With 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet

When planning your meal around the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet, consider these delicious side dishes:

Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the enchilada skillet.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a delightful contrast to the spicy flavors of the dish.
Mexican Rice: Serve with a side of seasoned rice for a more filling meal.
Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob brings a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the enchiladas.
Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans offers a protein-rich complement to the dish.
Fresh Salsa: A fresh salsa can add brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the skillet.
Chips and Salsa: Tortilla chips with salsa make for the perfect appetizer before the main meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! The 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet is very versatile. You can easily substitute shredded chicken, or even use black beans for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if using raw proteins.

You can serve the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet with a side salad, guacamole, or even a light Mexican rice. These sides will complement the flavors beautifully and make for a well-rounded meal.

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make the skillet ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

If you like a little heat, simply add diced jalapeños or some chili powder to the skillet while cooking. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce for an extra kick. Tailoring the spice level to your taste makes the 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet even more delightful!

Conclusion

The 30 Minute Leftover Sweet Potato Turkey Enchilada Skillet is a fantastic option for those who want a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s a delicious way to repurpose leftovers into something exciting and full of flavor. I encourage you to try this recipe for an easy dinner that the whole family will love!