Before we dive into the delicious world of turkey burritos, let’s think about accompaniments. Pairing food is an art. The right sides can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable. A zesty tomato-based salsa can provide a refreshing contrast to the burrito’s savory flavors.
Creamy Guacamole avocado goodness is always a crowd-pleaser. Fluffy rice, flavored with spices, complements the burrito with an added texture. Corn Salad is a Sweet corn tossed with lime juice and cilantro adds brightness and crunch.
Such pairings promise not just a meal, but a complete dining experience.
What is a Turkey Burrito Recipe?
A turkey burrito is a delightful combination of seasoned ground turkey, vegetables, beans, and spices, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Think of it as a handheld meal packed with nutrition. Each bite delivers a balance of protein, veggies, and bold flavors—an ideal choice for lunch or dinner, and perfect for meal prep too.
What Does It Taste Like?
If you’ve never tasted a turkey burrito, you’re in for a treat. The turkey is juicy, and the blend of spices—like chili powder and cumin—adds warmth. Pair that with the crunch of fresh veggies and the creaminess of Greek yogurt, and you’ve got a dish that’s savory with just the right amount of zing.
Why This Recipe Works
This turkey burrito recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Healthier Choice: Using ground turkey provides a leaner protein option compared to traditional beef. It significantly cuts down on calories and fat.
- Customization Potential: The filling can be adjusted based on what you have in the pantry. Whether you want to use black beans, kidney beans, or even different veggies, the options are endless.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare the filling in advance. It stores beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Kid-Friendly: The flavors are appealing without being overwhelming. It’s a great way to pack in vegetables while making dinner fun.
These qualities make this recipe not just practical but a fantastic addition to your cooking rotation.
Ingredients for Turkey Burrito
Filling Part One (Turkey)
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 lbs. ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons each of chili powder and ground cumin
- 3–5 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Filling Part Two (Vegetables)
- 4–5 cups assorted chopped vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers; see notes for specifics)
- 1 tablespoon each of chili powder and ground cumin
- 1 (14-ounce) can of pinto or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup corn kernels
For Serving
- 15 (10-inch) tortillas
- Avocado, hot sauce, cilantro, and lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent. Toss in the ground turkey and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, chipotle peppers, sea salt, smoked paprika, and lime juice. Cook until the meat is browned and all the spices are fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In another skillet, use a bit more olive oil and add the assorted chopped vegetables. Customize based on what you enjoy or have at home! Sauté them until they’re tender but still have a bit of crunch. Add more chili powder and cumin to the veggies to keep the flavors consistent.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Add the cooked turkey to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the drained beans and chicken broth. Let everything simmer together for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Dairy
Once the filling is almost ready, stir in the shredded cheese and Greek yogurt. This will make the filling creamy and even more delicious. Mix well and remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Take a tortilla and lay it flat. Place a generous amount of the filling in the center, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat this process until you’ve filled all the tortillas.
Step 6: Serve
You can serve them immediately or, if you like, grill or toast them on a skillet for a few minutes to get them crispy.
Notes
Here are some extra tips to make your turkey burrito even better:
- Make It Spicy or Mild: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to suit your spice tolerance.
- Use Whole Wheat Tortillas: For a healthier fiber boost, swap regular tortillas for whole wheat.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Storage: For leftovers, make sure to keep the filling and tortillas separate if possible, to maintain freshness.
- Batch Cooking: Consider doubling the recipe for meal prep and freezing some burritos for a busy day.
How to Store the Leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy. Place any extra burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual burritos in foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave them or place them in an oven until warmed through.
Sides for Turkey Burrito Recipe
Let’s talk sides. The right accompaniment makes your meal more fulfilling.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh chopped tomatoes, onions, and a sprinkle of lime juice make for a refreshing addition.
- Mexican Street Corn: Corn mixed with mayo, cheese, lime, and spices adds a rich, indulgent flavor that contrasts nicely with the burrito.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with a spicy salsa provide a delightful crunch.
- Guacamole: Creamy with a hint of citrus, guacamole is perfect for dipping.
Each of these sides brings its own flair and flavor to the table and makes for a vibrant meal experience.
Ingredient Alternatives
What if you’re missing something? No worries; here are some alternatives:
- Ground Chicken or Beef: Swap the ground turkey for chicken or beef based on your preference.
- Quinoa: For a vegetarian protein source, replace turkey with cooked quinoa.
- Various Beans: Use any canned beans you have on hand—black, kidney, or garbanzo work beautifully.
- Different Tortillas: Try corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or choose spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas for variety.
Flexibility is key in the kitchen, and this recipe can adapt to what you have.
Conclusion
Creating a turkey burrito is not just a cooking task; it’s a chance to express your culinary creativity. With endless opportunities for modifications, you can make this recipe uniquely yours.
Whether you decide to enjoy it fresh off the stovetop or save some for later, the turkey burrito promises to deliver satisfaction in each bite.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the satisfying world of homemade burritos. Your taste buds will thank you, and trust me; they’ll be begging for seconds!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Traeger Turkey Breast Copycat Recipe
- How to Make Ground Turkey Quinoa
- Best Turkey Burger Sliders Recipe
Turkey Burrito Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Description
You’re about to embark on a journey to create something amazing: a turkey burrito. This dish isn’t just a sandwich wrapped in a tortilla; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures.
The tender ground turkey combined with vibrant veggies and spices creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. I’ll walk you through my recipe and share why it holds a special place in my heart, and hopefully, soon yours too.
Ingredients
Filling Part One (Turkey):
Filling Part Two (Vegetables):
For Serving:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Filling
-
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's translucent. Toss in the ground turkey and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, chipotle peppers, sea salt, smoked paprika, and lime juice. Cook until the meat is browned and all the spices are fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
-
In another skillet, use a bit more olive oil and add the assorted chopped vegetables. Customize based on what you enjoy or have at home! Sauté them until they’re tender but still have a bit of crunch. Add more chili powder and cumin to the veggies to keep the flavors consistent.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
-
Add the cooked turkey to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the drained beans and chicken broth. Let everything simmer together for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Dairy
-
Once the filling is almost ready, stir in the shredded cheese and Greek yogurt. This will make the filling creamy and even more delicious. Mix well and remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
-
Take a tortilla and lay it flat. Place a generous amount of the filling in the center, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat this process until you’ve filled all the tortillas.
Step 6: Serve
-
You can serve them immediately or, if you like, grill or toast them on a skillet for a few minutes to get them crispy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 15
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 331kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 202g311%
- Saturated Fat 6.4g32%
- Cholesterol 51mg17%
- Sodium 508mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Make It Spicy or Mild: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to suit your spice tolerance.
- Use Whole Wheat Tortillas: For a healthier fiber boost, swap regular tortillas for whole wheat.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Storage: For leftovers, make sure to keep the filling and tortillas separate if possible, to maintain freshness.
- Batch Cooking: Consider doubling the recipe for meal prep and freezing some burritos for a busy day.
