Ground turkey is a versatile ingredient that can transform a simple meal into a delicious, flavor-packed dish. This Green Chile Ground Turkey recipe combines the rich taste of ground turkey with the vibrant flavors of green chiles, spices, and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for any dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe has got you covered.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Green Chile Ground Turkey is not just another turkey dish; it’s bursting with flavor! The combination of spices like chili powder and cumin brings a warm, earthy flavor, while the green chiles add a hint of heat and depth. The dish is also flexible, allowing for various toppings and additions, making it ideal for customizing to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal that’s packed with protein and nutrients, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this mouthwatering Green Chile Ground Turkey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1-1/2 cups finely diced red onion (1 large onion)
1 red pepper (diced)
1 pound ground turkey (93/7)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon ground chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon paprika
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 (4-ounce) can mild diced green chiles (drained)
3/4 cup mild green enchilada sauce or 3/4 cup mild salsa verde
1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1-1/2 cups frozen corn (optional)
1-1/2 cups freshly shredded pepper Jack cheese
1 lime (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
Toppings as desired (see note)

Appliances & Accessories

To prepare this Green Chile Ground Turkey, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Large skillet: For sautéing the vegetables and cooking the turkey.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the mixture and break up the turkey.
Can opener: For opening canned ingredients like beans and green chiles.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.

Directions: Green Chile Ground Turkey

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced red onion and diced red pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and minced garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spices are well combined and fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate the Green Chiles

Add the drained green chiles and the enchilada sauce (or salsa verde) to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Mix in the Beans and Corn

Stir in the black beans and frozen corn (if using). Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Top the mixture with freshly shredded pepper Jack cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Green Chile Ground Turkey hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Enjoy it on its own, or serve it with tortillas, rice, or in a taco shell!

Substitutions by Category

Ground Turkey: Substitute with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
Cheese: Use Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
Beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas.
Vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or any veggies you have on hand.

Cook’s Notes

For a spicier kick, use hot diced green chiles or add some jalapeños.
This recipe can easily be doubled for meal prep or larger gatherings.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste; more chili powder or cumin can enhance the flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Green Chile Ground Turkey is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. For storage:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What can I serve with Green Chile Ground Turkey?

This dish is versatile! It pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or in tacos. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Using mild green chiles keeps it on the lower end, and you can always add more spices or hot sauce to kick it up a notch!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Green Chile Ground Turkey ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when ready to serve!

What to Make After This

In Closing

With its delightful combination of spices and wholesome ingredients, this Green Chile Ground Turkey is a dish that promises to please both the palate and the senses. It’s quick to prepare, and its versatility allows for endless customization, whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends. Enjoy this recipe as a hearty meal that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. Happy cooking!