Leftover Turkey Tacos Recipe

Oh my gosh, so I just put together these amazing turkey tacos and let me tell you, they’re next-level deliciousness! 😍 The blend of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika gives the turkey a killer smoky-spicy vibe, and topping it off with fresh cilantro and lime just makes the flavors pop! 🌮🔥✨

Turning Thanksgiving leftovers into something thrilling and delicious is easy with these turkey tacos. Using shredded turkey (which I toss with olive oil and sautéed onions, garlic, and smoky spices for the filling) might make the tacos sound healthful, but let me assure you that my husband and I are hardly skimping on flavor here.

The portion of smoked paprika in this recipe is big enough to have your taste buds singing; add in fresh Romaine lettuce (or whatever leafy green you have on hand), ripe cherry tomatoes, and a smattering of cilantro, and these tachos are a downright fiesta.

Leftover Turkey Tacos Recipe Ingredients

• Cooked Turkey: Lean protein source, low in fat, perfect for using leftovers.
• Olive Oil: Healthy monounsaturated fats, great for heart health.
• Onion: Adds flavor, rich in antioxidants, and low in calories.
• Garlic: Boosts immunity, rich in vitamins, and adds robust flavor.
• Ground Cumin: Earthy, warm spice with antioxidant properties.
• Chili Powder: Provides heat and spice, enhances metabolism.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky flavor, source of iron and vitamin A.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy sweetness, rich in vitamins C and K.

Leftover Turkey Tacos Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

How to Make this Leftover Turkey Tacos Recipe

1. In a large skillet, over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion, finely chopped, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the softened onion is translucent.

2. To the skillet, add the minced garlic, and for 30 seconds more, sauté it with the other ingredients until it’s just smelling up the place. You want to be careful here, too—burnt garlic isn’t good eats.

3. In a pan, add the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and toast them for 1 minute over medium heat. Stir them well, so they don’t burn.

4. Place the turkey in the skillet and mix with the onions, garlic, and spices. Add salt and pepper to taste. Allow to cook for 3-4 minutes until the turkey is hot. Remove skillet from heat.

5. As the turkey mixture warms, the corn tortillas need to be heated. You can do this by either putting them in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds per side or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for 30 seconds.

6. When the turkey is finished, take it from the heat and put it to the side.

7. Place a small amount of shredded lettuce on each corn tortilla for the base of the tacos.

8. Distribute the turkey mixture evenly over the lettuce on each tortilla.

9. Garnish the turkey with cherry tomatoes cut into quarters and shredded cheddar cheese.

10. Complete the dish by adding the following: a few fresh cilantro leaves, fresh lime juice, and hot sauce to taste. Serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side. Now get to enjoying those turkey tacos!

Leftover Turkey Tacos Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Medium-sized pan
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Wooden spoon or spatula
7. Microwave (optional, for heating tortillas)
8. Paper towels (if using microwave method for tortillas)
9. Serving plates

FAQ

• Can I use dark turkey meat instead of white?You can use either dark or white turkey meat, or a combination of the two, for this recipe. Yes, you can use either dark or white turkey meat, or a combination of both, for this recipe.
• How can I make the tacos spicier?If you want even more heat, add some chopped jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne.
• Can I substitute flour tortillas for corn?Of course, you can use flour tortillas if you want; just know the flavor and texture will be a bit different.
• Is there a vegetarian variation of this recipe?Definitely! You can replace the turkey with well-cooked and flavor-packed jackfruit or a plant-based meat alternative.
• How should I store leftovers?Any remaining turkey mixture can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be sure to reheat it before serving.
• Can I make these tacos gluten-free?Certainly, as long as you use corn tortillas that are free of gluten and make sure that all the other ingredients are also free of gluten, then these tacos are suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Leftover Turkey Tacos Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Use avocado oil or vegetable oil instead of olive oil.
Substitute ground coriander for ground cumin to obtain a different flavor profile.
Change smoked paprika for regular paprika or chipotle powder if you want to turn the heat up.
Use flour tortillas in place of corn tortillas for a less chewy, more tender texture.
Instead of shredded cheese, use crumbled feta or queso fresco for a tangy twist.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Spices When toasting the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, keep stirring to ensure they release their essential oils and flavors without burning. This step will enhance the depth of flavor in your dish.

2. Use Fresh Corn Tortillas If possible, use fresh or homemade corn tortillas for the best texture and taste. Warming them in a skillet gives a pleasant char and strengthens their structure, preventing them from tearing when loaded with fillings.

3. Enhance the Turkey Flavor If your cooked turkey seems dry or lacking in flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken or turkey broth when reheating it with the spices to keep it moist and more flavorful.

4. Chill Your Toppings Keep your lettuce and tomatoes in the fridge until you’re ready to use them. This will add a crisp and refreshing contrast to the warm turkey and tortillas, giving the tacos great texture and balance.

5. Experiment with Garnishes Consider adding avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole for creaminess and extra flavor. You could also include pickled jalapeños for a tangy kick.