Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up that leftover Thanksgiving turkey, look no further! This Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe transforms what could be a mundane meal into something absolutely delightful. With vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you whip them up for a busy weeknight dinner or serve them at your next gathering, everyone will be asking for seconds!

These tacos offer a warm comfort that’s hard to resist. The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and crispy turkey creates an irresistible dish that celebrates the spirit of good food and great company.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without the hassle.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tacos! These leftovers are not only kid-approved but also customizable to suit various tastes.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices and fresh orange juice infuses the turkey with fantastic flavor, elevating your leftovers into something special.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the turkey mixture ahead of time and just heat it up when you’re ready to eat, making mealtime stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and easy! Here’s a list of simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering leftover turkey tacos:

For the Turkey Filling

• 1.5 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (divided)
• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken or even roasted vegetables work beautifully in these tacos.
• Add some heat: Spice lovers can throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Go gluten-free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour to make this recipe gluten-free and just as delicious.
• Change up the toppings: Instead of cotija cheese, try crumbled feta or even avocado slices for creaminess.

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. This spice mix will awaken all those fantastic flavors in your turkey. It’s an easy step that makes all the difference!

Step 2: Mix the Turkey with Orange Juice

Slice or shred your leftover turkey meat and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Pour in the fresh orange juice and sprinkle over your seasoning mix. Mixing everything together ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Simmer the Turkey Mixture

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add your seasoned turkey along with the sliced onion. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally; this step helps soften the meat while allowing those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Brown the Turkey

In a large cast iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add your turkey mixture and onions from earlier along with the remaining teaspoon of brown sugar. Cook until browned and crispy, which should take about 12-15 minutes—this gives your tacos that perfect texture!

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Divide your crispy turkey mixture between warm tortillas. Top each taco with finely diced red onion, fresh cilantro, and cotija cheese for that ultimate finishing touch.

And there you have it—your very own Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe ready to enjoy! These tacos are not just a meal; they’re a way to savor every last bit of holiday cheer. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

Creating mouthwatering tacos from leftover turkey is a breeze! Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and red onion can brighten up the flavors in your tacos, making them more vibrant and appealing.
• Don’t rush the browning: Allowing the turkey to cook until browned and crispy enhances the texture and adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft tortillas.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more cumin or paprika if you love bold flavors. This flexibility allows you to customize the recipe to suit your family’s preferences.
• Warm your tortillas: Lightly warming your flour tortillas before serving makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor, ensuring they complement your filling perfectly.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice. These additions can elevate your tacos and provide a refreshing twist.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

Presenting your leftover turkey tacos in an inviting manner can make mealtime even more enjoyable! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this dish.

Garnishes

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of either adds creaminess that balances the spices beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos just before eating brings an extra zing that brightens up all the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad combines charred corn with lime, cilantro, and cotija cheese, making it a refreshing side that perfectly complements your tacos.
• Black Bean Salsa: A zesty mix of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños adds protein and flavor, making it an excellent partner for your turkey tacos.
• Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a satisfying base alongside your main dish, enhancing the overall meal experience.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole made from ripe avocados offers richness and pairs well with the crunchiness of the tacos.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only enjoy delicious leftover turkey tacos but also impress your family or guests! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious tacos throughout the week without any hassle. With simple storage and reheating instructions, you can savor these tasty bites anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey mixture to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftover turkey filling to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place the cooled turkey taco filling in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey filling overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that you might have about this recipe!

Can I use other meats instead of turkey in this taco recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute leftover chicken or even beef if you prefer. Adjust the spices accordingly to suit your taste.

How can I make a Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe more spicy?

To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix. You can also serve with your favorite hot sauce!

What toppings go well with Leftover Turkey Tacos?

You can top your tacos with avocado slices, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or any of your favorite salsa for extra flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the turkey filling in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe as delightful as I do! It’s a fantastic way to transform your holiday leftovers into something special and satisfying. Remember, cooking should be fun and flavorful—so gather your loved ones and get ready to indulge in these tasty tacos. Enjoy every bite!