Enchilada Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

ByLila Prescott
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Introduction

This Enchilada Turkey Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, combining lean ground turkey with vibrant enchilada spices and fresh ingredients. It’s hearty, moist, and topped with melty cheese and zesty sauce for a crowd-pleasing meal.

A sliced loaf covered with melted golden cheese on top, scattered with bright green sliced jalapeños and finely chopped green herbs. The loaf layers underneath show a mix of baked textures with crispy edges and soft interior visible between each cheese-covered slice. The loaf sits on white parchment paper over a white marbled texture surface. Near the loaf is a sharp knife with a wood handle, and a white bowl filled with red sauce is seen in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds 93% ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup quick oats (check labels for gluten free)
  • 2 tablespoons mild enchilada sauce
  • 1/2 cup chopped scallions
  • 1/3 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/4 cup canned reduced-sodium black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
  • 4-ounce can mild chopped green chili (drained well)
  • 1 clove crushed garlic
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2/3 cup mild enchilada sauce (for topping)
  • 1/3 cup Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 jalapeño sliced thin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, oats, 2 tablespoons enchilada sauce, scallions, corn, black beans, green chilies, crushed garlic, beaten egg, kosher salt, ground cumin, and onion powder.
  3. Step 3: Mix everything thoroughly using clean hands, then shape the mixture into an oval loaf on the prepared sheet pan, flattening the top slightly to hold toppings later.
  4. Step 4: Bake the meatloaf for 55 to 60 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through.
  5. Step 5: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining 2/3 cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the Mexican cheese blend and arrange jalapeño slices if using.
  6. Step 6: Return to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce is heated and the cheese is melted. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
  7. Step 7: Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into 12 pieces. Serve with additional enchilada sauce on the side if you like.

Tips & Variations

  • For a spicier version, use a hot enchilada sauce or add more jalapeños.
  • Swap out the quick oats for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • Try mixing in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
  • Use sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of the Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also slice and microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps keep the texture better.

How to Serve

A loaf of bread is sliced almost all the way through and topped with melted golden cheese, thin slices of green jalapeño pepper, and sprinkled with chopped fresh green herbs. The bread has a crispy texture with some browned spots where the cheese melted into the crust. The loaf sits on crumpled white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. To the left of the loaf is a white bowl filled with red dipping sauce. A knife with a wooden handle lies beside the loaf on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Shape and bake it fresh when ready to serve for best results.

What can I serve with enchilada turkey meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs well with Mexican rice, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also add extra enchilada sauce or guacamole on the side for more flavor.

Print
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Enchilada Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 87 reviews
  • Author: Lila
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat
Print Recipe

Description

This Enchilada Turkey Meatloaf is a flavorful and healthier twist on a classic meatloaf, combining lean ground turkey with enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and Mexican spices. Topped with melted cheese and jalapeños, it offers a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 1 1/2 pounds 93% lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup quick oats (check labels for gluten free)
  • 2 tablespoons mild enchilada sauce
  • 1/2 cup chopped scallions
  • 1/3 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/4 cup canned reduced-sodium black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
  • 4 ounce can mild chopped green chilies (drained well)
  • 1 clove crushed garlic
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Topping

  • 2/3 cup mild enchilada sauce
  • 1/3 cup Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced thin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, quick oats, 2 tablespoons of the mild enchilada sauce, chopped scallions, corn kernels, rinsed black beans, chopped cilantro, drained green chilies, crushed garlic, beaten egg, kosher salt, ground cumin, and onion powder thoroughly using clean hands until well combined.
  3. Shape the meatloaf: Using your hands, form the mixture into an oval-shaped loaf on the prepared sheet pan. Flatten the top slightly so it’s easier to add toppings later.
  4. Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes until it is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Add toppings: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining 2/3 cup of mild enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend and arrange the sliced jalapeños on top if using.
  6. Finish baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until the sauce is heated through and the cheese has melted.
  7. Garnish and serve: Garnish with additional chopped cilantro, then transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into 12 pieces. Serve warm with extra enchilada sauce if desired.

Notes

  • Check oats for gluten-free labeling if you require a gluten-free recipe.
  • Use lean ground turkey to keep the meatloaf light and healthy.
  • You can substitute the mild enchilada sauce with your favorite enchilada sauce or salsa for different flavor variations.
  • Optional jalapeños add a mild heat, but you can omit them if you prefer no spice.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold together better.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Keywords: turkey meatloaf, enchilada meatloaf, Mexican meatloaf, healthy meatloaf, baked meatloaf, ground turkey recipes

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