Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
With these juicy and oh so delicious Leftover Turkey Tacos, you won’t dread having leftover Thanksgiving turkey around the house. This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful meal that suits any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want an easy family dinner, these tacos are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and quick preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This taco recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients brings out the best in your leftover turkey, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Versatile Filling: Feel free to mix in other veggies or toppings based on what you have available for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for lunches or quick dinners.
- Family Friendly: Kids love tacos! These leftover turkey tacos are a fun way to get everyone involved in dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
- Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
- Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
- Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle
Customer Reviews ★★★★★
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the seasoned turkey and onions, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cast iron skillet: Excellent for achieving that crispy texture on the turkey, giving your tacos an irresistible crunch.
Ingredients
For the Seasoning Mix
- 1.5 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (divided)
For the Turkey Filling
- 2 cups leftover turkey (white or dark meat)
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (about 1/2 of a large orange)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 white onion (sliced into 1 inch half moons)
For Serving
- 6 flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons cotija cheese
How to Make Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar.
Step 2: Season the Turkey
Slice or shred the leftover turkey meat and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the orange juice and seasoning mixture. Mix until combined.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the seasoned turkey and sliced onion. Simmer covered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The turkey should become soft and tender; shred into smaller pieces if needed before pan-frying.
Step 4: Crisp Up the Filling
Heat a large cast iron skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium-high heat until shimmering. Add cooked turkey and onions, then sprinkle with remaining sugar. Cook until browned and crispy, about 12–15 minutes, turning once every five minutes.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Divide the turkey carnitas between tortillas. Top each taco with red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese for added flavor!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Leftover Turkey Tacos!
How to Serve Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
These leftover turkey tacos are not just a meal; they can be a fun dining experience! Here are some creative ways to serve them for an exciting twist.
Taco Bar
- Create a taco bar where everyone can customize their own tacos. Provide a variety of toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for added flavor.
Wrap It Up
- Use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a low-carb option. This makes the leftover turkey tacos fresh and crunchy!
Breakfast Tacos
- Transform your leftover turkey into breakfast tacos by adding scrambled eggs and avocado. Perfect for a hearty morning meal!
Taco Salad
- Layer the turkey mixture over greens for a delicious taco salad. Add your favorite salad dressings and toppings for extra crunch.
Party Platter
- Arrange the tacos on a large platter with colorful garnishes. Serve with chips and dips to make it a festive spread for gatherings.
Make-Your-Own Tacos
- Host a taco night where guests can assemble their own tacos using various ingredients. This interactive approach makes meals more enjoyable.
How to Perfect Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
To ensure your leftover turkey tacos are absolutely delicious, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavors of your tacos significantly.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your turkey mixture before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for optimum flavor.
- Crisp it up: For an extra crunch, broil the assembled tacos in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding different spices like chili powder or smoked paprika to switch things up.
- Serve with lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds freshness to each bite.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the turkey mixture ahead of time and simply heat it when you’re ready to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your leftover turkey tacos can take your meal to the next level. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish well.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds a hearty touch to your meal.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide great protein and taste, making them an excellent pairing.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip is always a hit and brings freshness that balances out the spices in the tacos.
- Corn Salsa: A bright corn salsa adds sweetness and crunch, making it a perfect sidekick for your tacos.
- Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make an irresistible appetizer or side.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the tacos.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that pairs beautifully with savory tacos.
- Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad is both filling and refreshing, making it a great accompaniment to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using leftover turkey can be a delicious way to create new meals, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your tacos.
- Overseasoning: Adding too many spices can overpower the turkey’s natural flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
- Skipping the Simmer: Not simmering the turkey can lead to dry meat. Allow it to cook covered for the suggested time for tenderness.
- Incorrect Tortilla Choice: Using thick tortillas can make your tacos hard to bite into. Opt for soft flour tortillas that complement the filling.
- Rushing Cooking Time: Cooking at high heat may burn the turkey and onions. Use medium heat for even cooking and caramelization.
- Neglecting Toppings: Skipping fresh toppings like cilantro or cotija cheese can make tacos less exciting. Don’t forget to add these for flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring between heats.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making a Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe:
How can I customize my Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe?
You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or avocado. Experiment with various toppings such as salsa or guacamole!
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes! This recipe works well with shredded chicken, beef, or even vegetarian options like black beans.
What side dishes go well with leftover turkey tacos?
Consider serving them with Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I store leftover turkey tacos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Freeze them for longer storage if needed.
Can I make this taco recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the turkey mixture and store it separately from the tortillas until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe is a delightful way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers into something special. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings and sides. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of these amazing tacos!
Leftover Turkey Tacos
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos total) 1x
Description
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious meal with this Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe! These savory tacos are not only quick and easy to make but also packed with vibrant flavors that will impress your family and friends. In just under an hour, you can create a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The combination of seasoned turkey, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings makes every bite a flavor explosion. Plus, they’re versatile enough to cater to various taste preferences, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover turkey (white or dark meat)
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- 6 flour tortillas
- 1 white onion (sliced)
- 1.5 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (divided)
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons cotija cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and brown sugar.
- Shred or slice turkey and mix with orange juice and seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a pot; add turkey mixture and sliced onion. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat oil; add turkey and onions until crispy (12–15 minutes).
- Assemble tacos with turkey filling and desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering, Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (180g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
