Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Thanksgiving Enchiladas are a delightful way to use up your holiday leftovers! These enchiladas combine the flavors of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a unique twist on traditional meals. The creamy gravy and melted cheese on top make it an irresistible comfort food that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these enchiladas in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Each bite is packed with the rich taste of turkey, savory stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Use any leftover meat or stuffing you have on hand for a personalized touch.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe combines familiar flavors for a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and bake before serving for easy weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Thanksgiving Enchiladas, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cooking spray
• Ladle
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for holding all six enchiladas comfortably while allowing even baking.
• Ladle: Perfect for portioning out gravy without making a mess.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping herbs like sage quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to prepare ingredients without damaging your countertops.

Ingredients

Thanksgiving Enchiladas are loaded with all sorts of deliciousness! Leftover turkey, gravy, stuffing and cranberry sauce are wrapped in flour tortillas, then baked under more gravy and cheese.

For the Enchiladas

• 6 10-inch flour tortillas
• 3 cups leftover heated turkey gravy, divided
• 1 ½ pounds leftover cooked turkey (white or dark or both)
• 1 pound leftover stuffing
• 6 tablespoons whole berry cranberry sauce, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup fresh sage chopped small (or half that of dried)
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that the enchiladas cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch pan or dish with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Add Gravy to the Dish

Ladle one cup of the turkey gravy onto the bottom of the casserole dish. This layer adds moisture to your enchiladas as they bake.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Lay out all six tortillas flat on your counter. Divide the turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce evenly between each tortilla by piling everything in a line down the center.

Step 5: Add Sage and Roll Up

Sprinkle the chopped sage over each filling. Then roll each tortilla tightly starting from one end toward the other, ending on the seam side.

Step 6: Place in Pan and Top with Gravy

Place the rolled enchiladas seam side down into the prepared pan. Spoon over the remaining two cups of gravy evenly across the enchiladas.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Broil for Extra Browning

For an extra touch, place under the broiler briefly to brown the cheese. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

Serve your Thanksgiving Enchiladas hot with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Thanksgiving Enchiladas are a delightful fusion of flavors that can easily become the star of your holiday meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your enchiladas with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Add a Side of Salad

• Serve with a fresh green salad, dressed lightly with vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the enchiladas.

Pair with Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and complement the spices in the dish beautifully.

Include Sour Cream or Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or non-dairy yogurt provides creaminess and a tangy contrast to the savory enchiladas.

Serve with Extra Gravy

• Keep extra turkey gravy on the side for those who want an extra drizzle over their plate.

Offer Additional Cranberry Sauce

• Provide more whole berry cranberry sauce on the side for guests who enjoy a sweet-tart kick alongside their enchiladas.

How to Perfect Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Perfecting your Thanksgiving Enchiladas can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Warm Tortillas: Warming tortillas makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.

• Layer Ingredients Evenly: Distributing turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce evenly ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or cheddar for unique taste profiles.

• Adjust Gravy Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, mix in a little broth or water to achieve the desired consistency before pouring it over the enchiladas.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the enchiladas to sit for a few minutes after baking helps them set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Enchiladas

To complement your Thanksgiving Enchiladas, consider these delicious side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad made with corn, lime juice, cilantro, and cotija cheese that adds a zesty crunch.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro pairs wonderfully with mellower flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds a healthy touch alongside rich enchiladas.
4. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing blend of black beans, bell peppers, onions, and lime dressing offers protein and fiber.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances each bite by adding richness and flavor contrasts.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an excellent appetizer before digging into the main course.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini fritters provide a crispy texture that complements soft enchiladas well.
8. Spicy Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies can cut through the richness and add an exciting flavor note to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thanksgiving Enchiladas can be a delightful dish, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use heated leftover turkey and gravy. Cold ingredients can result in uneven cooking and a less satisfying texture.

• Overstuffing Tortillas: It may be tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can lead to torn tortillas. Keep the filling moderate for easy rolling.

• Ignoring Cooking Time: Baking too long or too short can affect the final dish. Keep an eye on your enchiladas during the last few minutes of baking for perfect results.

• Forgetting to Cover: Not covering your enchiladas with gravy before baking can lead to dry edges. Ensure they are well coated for moisture and flavor.

• Skipping the Broiler Step: The broiler helps achieve that perfect golden cheese topping. Don’t skip this step for an appealing finish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Thanksgiving Enchiladas

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Thanksgiving Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Thanksgiving Enchiladas that may help you as you prepare this delicious meal.

What kind of tortillas work best for Thanksgiving Enchiladas?

Flour tortillas are ideal because they hold up well against moist fillings and create a delightful texture when baked.

Can I use different types of meat in Thanksgiving Enchiladas?

Absolutely! You can substitute leftover chicken, beef, or lamb as desired, making this recipe versatile based on your leftovers.

How do I customize my Thanksgiving Enchiladas?

Feel free to add other leftover vegetables or cheeses you enjoy. Spinach or bell peppers could enhance flavor and nutrition!

How do I ensure my enchiladas don’t get soggy?

Make sure all ingredients are drained of excess liquid before assembly and use enough gravy just to coat without soaking the tortillas.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Enchiladas are not only a fantastic way to use up leftovers but also offer endless customization options. You can mix in your favorite flavors or toppings! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious fusion of tastes that will please any crowd.