Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

With these juicy and oh so delicious Leftover Turkey Tacos, you won’t dread having leftover Thanksgiving turkey around the house. This recipe not only makes use of your holiday leftovers but also transforms them into a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or even a game day feast, these tacos bring both flavor and fun to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 55 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of spices and fresh orange juice adds a unique twist to traditional tacos.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize toppings based on your preferences or what you have at home.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tacos! They’re easy to assemble and great for sharing.
• Waste Not, Want Not: This recipe is an excellent way to ensure no turkey goes to waste after the holidays.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot (Dutch oven recommended)
• Large cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the turkey and onion together, ensuring they are tender and infused with flavors.
• Large cast iron skillet: Perfect for achieving that crispy texture on the turkey, enhancing the overall taste of your tacos.

Ingredients

Spices

• 1.5 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (divided)

Turkey Base

• 2 cups leftover turkey (white or dark meat)
• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (about 1/2 of a large orange)

Vegetables

• 1 white onion (sliced into 1 inch half moons)

Tortillas and Toppings

• 6 flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons cotija cheese

How to Make Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. Mix well until blended.

Step 2: Combine Turkey with Orange Juice

Slice or shred the leftover turkey meat and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the fresh orange juice along with the seasoning mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Simmer Turkey and Onion

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the seasoned turkey and sliced onion. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The turkey should become soft; shred it into smaller pieces if needed before proceeding.

Step 4: Crisp Up in Cast Iron Skillet

Heat a large cast iron skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the turkey mixture along with onions and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar. Cook until browned and crispy, around 12-15 minutes, turning once every five minutes for even crispness.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Divide the crispy turkey carnitas among the tortillas. Top each one with finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and cotija cheese for added flavor and crunch.

Now you have an amazing Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe that will surely impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

These delicious leftover turkey tacos can be served in many fun and creative ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Taco Bar

• Set up a taco bar with all the fixings. Guests can customize their tacos with toppings like salsa, guacamole, and assorted cheeses.

Crunchy Taco Shells

• Instead of flour tortillas, try using crunchy taco shells for an extra texture. The crispy shells add a delightful crunch to every bite.

Salad Bowls

• Serve the turkey tacos on top of mixed greens for a lighter option. Add avocado and a squeeze of lime for freshness.

Breakfast Tacos

• Transform leftovers into breakfast by adding scrambled eggs. Pair with salsa for a tasty morning treat.

Nacho Platter

• Use the seasoned turkey as a topping for nachos. Layer chips with cheese, turkey, jalapeños, and bake until melty.

Stuffed Peppers

• Fill halved bell peppers with the turkey mixture and bake them for a nutritious twist on tacos. Top with cheese before baking for added flavor.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

To make sure your leftover turkey tacos are absolutely perfect, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavors of your tacos.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the turkey mixture after seasoning. Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference.

• Heat Tortillas: Warm your tortillas before serving to make them more pliable and enhance their flavor.

• Let it Rest: Allow the seasoned turkey to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps deepen the flavors.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like pickled jalapeños or avocado crema to give your tacos unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

Pair your leftover turkey tacos with these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice dish seasoned with spices that adds heartiness to your meal.

2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are a classic side that pairs well with any taco dish.

3. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made from fresh corn, tomatoes, and cilantro that adds brightness to your plate.

4. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime juice; it’s perfect for scooping alongside your tacos.

5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with homemade salsa offer an enjoyable appetizer before the main course.

6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled until charred provide a healthy balance alongside rich tacos.

7. Quesadilla Slices: Cheesy quesadillas cut into wedges make an irresistible addition to any taco feast.

8. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can provide crunch and acidity that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of turkey tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using leftover turkey can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you create delicious tacos that everyone will love.

• Poor seasoning: Not seasoning your turkey well can lead to bland tacos. Make sure to use a good mix of spices like paprika and cumin for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the turkey: Cooking the turkey for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it while simmering and sautéing to maintain juiciness.
• Skipping the onion: Omitting onions may lead to a lack of texture and flavor. Sautéed onions add sweetness and richness, enhancing the overall dish.
• Using stale tortillas: Using old or stale tortillas can ruin your tacos. Always opt for fresh tortillas that are soft and pliable.
• Not garnishing properly: Failing to add toppings like cilantro and cotija cheese can make your tacos less appealing. Don’t skip these essential garnishes—they add freshness and flavor.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey tacos in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

• Place the cooled turkey mixture in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the tacos and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Leftover Turkey Taco Recipe.

How do I make the best leftover turkey taco recipe?

To make the best leftover turkey tacos, ensure you season your turkey well with spices like paprika and cumin. Sauté onions until they are soft, and don’t forget fresh toppings like cilantro!

Can I use dark meat in my leftover turkey taco recipe?

Yes! You can definitely use dark meat in this recipe. It adds more flavor and moisture, making your tacos even tastier.

What are some variations for leftover turkey tacos?

You can customize your leftover turkey taco recipe by adding different toppings like avocado, salsa, or jalapeños. You could also try using corn tortillas instead of flour!

How long does it take to prepare leftover turkey tacos?

The total time is about 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick option for using up Thanksgiving leftovers!

Final Thoughts

These Leftover Turkey Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and spices according to your taste preferences. Try this comforting recipe next time you have leftover turkey, and enjoy a satisfying meal that brings joy to your table!