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    Home ยป Easy Dinner Recipes

    The Best Easy Leftover Turkey Tacos

    Published: Aug 7, 2024 ยท Modified: Aug 7, 2024 by Deborah Rainford ยท This post may contain affiliate links ยท 2 Comments

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    Leftover turkey tacos with cheese on a plate.

    These leftover turkey tacos are the perfect solution for transforming your holiday leftovers into a delicious meal. Ideal for a quick dinner these tacos are packed with spices and topped with fresh, healthy ingredients.

    Leftover softshell turkey tacos.

    You'll also love my leftover turkey curry, 15-minute turkey stir fry, and this chicken pie.

    Jump to:
    • โญ๏ธ Why this recipe works
    • ๐Ÿงพ Ingredients overview
    • ๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿปโ€๐Ÿณ Here's how to make it
    • ๐Ÿ“– Variations
    • ๐Ÿ’ก Chef's Guide: Expert Tips
    • ๐Ÿฏ Storing and reheating leftovers
    • โ“Recipe FAQ's
    • The Best Easy Leftover Turkey Tacos

    ⭐️ Why this recipe works

    • Utilizes Leftovers Efficiently: Perfect for using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any meal.
    • Quick and Easy: Simple steps and minimal cooking time make this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
    • Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of paprika, cumin, and garlic powder gives the turkey a delicious, smoky flavor.
    • Versatile Toppings: Customizable with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, Greek yogurt, and cheese.
    • Healthy Option: Made with lean turkey and fresh ingredients, these tacos are a nutritious meal choice.

    🧾 Ingredients overview

    Ingredients for turkey tacos.
    • Leftover turkey: The main protein, providing a hearty base for the tacos.
    • Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions, adding a rich flavor.
    • Red onion: Adds sweetness to the tacos.
    • Paprika: Imparts a smoky, earthy flavor to the turkey.
    • Cumin: Enhances the savory, warm taste of the seasoning mix.
    • Garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
    • Brown sugar: Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
    • Chicken stock: Keeps the turkey moist and adds extra flavor.
    • Orange juice: Adds a hint of citrusy sweetness that complements the spices.
    • Flour tortillas: For holding all the fillings.
    • Avocado: Provides a creamy texture and healthy fats.
    • Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds a tangy, creamy element to the tacos.
    • Sriracha: Optional for those who like a bit of heat.
    • Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the warm taco filling.
    • Coriander (cilantro): Adds a fresh, herbal note.

      For precise measurements and additional ingredients, refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

    👩🏻‍🍳 Here's how to make it

    Leftover Turkey Tacos recipe step-by-step
    Spices for pulled turkey.
    1. Mix the Spices: In a medium bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Toss the shredded turkey with the spice mixture until well-coated.
    Frying onions in a cast iron pan.
    1. Cook the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened but not colored, about 5 minutes.
    Cooking the turkey and in soft shell tacos.
    1. Cook the Turkey: Add the seasoned turkey to the pan. Pour in the chicken stock and orange juice. Simmer gently, uncovered, until the liquid has been absorbed into the turkey, about 10 minutes.
    2. Prepare the Toppings: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt or sour cream with the Sriracha until well combined. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to taste.
    3. Assemble the Tacos: Place some of the spiced turkey filling into each tortilla shell. Add a few slices of fried onions, then top with the spiced (or plain) sour cream, avocado slices, and chopped coriander. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

    📖 Variations

    • Protein Alternatives: Use leftover chicken or beef instead of turkey.
    • Tortilla Options: Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
    • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha or add jalapeños for extra heat.
    • Cheese Varieties: Use feta or cotija cheese instead of cheddar.

    💡 Chef's Guide: Expert Tips

    Drawing on a decade of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens and Cordon Bleu training, I have compiled my top tips for recipe success.

    • Marinade Time: If possible, let the seasoned turkey marinate in the spice mixture overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
    • Crisping Turkey: After simmering the turkey, spread it on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes to add a crispy texture.
    • Citrus Segmenting: For an extra burst of citrus, add segmented orange pieces directly to the tacos for a fresh, juicy element.

    🍯 Storing and reheating leftovers

    • Fridge: Store the cooled turkey filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store tortillas and toppings separately to maintain freshness.
    • Freezer: For longer storage, place the turkey filling in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
    • Reheat: To reheat the turkey filling, place it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

    ❓Recipe FAQ's

    Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat?

    Yes, this recipe works well with other leftover meats like chicken, beef, or even pork. Just adjust the seasoning and cooking time as needed.

    How do I prevent the tacos from becoming soggy?

    Ensure the turkey filling is not overly wet by simmering until most of the liquid is absorbed. Also, serve the tacos immediately after assembling to maintain the best texture.

    What can I serve with these tacos to make a complete meal?

    Serve the tacos with sides like Mexican street corn, a fresh tomato salad, or a light cabbage slaw to complement the flavors.

    Looking for other Mexican-inspired recipes like this? Try these:

    • One pot Mexican rice in a skillet with avocado and tortilla chips.
      Easy One Pot Mexican Rice
    • Pulled chicken tacos in tortillas with chopped tomatoes and avocado on a white plate.
      The Best Pulled Chicken Tacos
    • Chicken and shrimp tacos on tortillas with avocado slaw.
      The Best 30 Minute Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Tacos
    • The Easiest Prawn Tacos (Shrimp)

    If you tried this Leftover Turkey Tacos please let me know in the comments below, and please leave a star rating while you're there!

    For more recipe ideas, follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and join our exclusive Facebook group.

    For meal planning assistance, check out our weekly Aldi-only meal plans, free for subscribers.

    Craving more comfort food? Visit our sister site, Salted Mint, for easy, delicious recipes with everyday ingredients.

    Leftover softshell turkey tacos.

    The Best Easy Leftover Turkey Tacos

    Transform your leftover turkey into delicious and easy-to-make tacos. These tacos are perfect for a quick dinner or a flavorful lunch, packed with spices and topped with your favorite garnishes.
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
    Servings: 4 servings
    Save This RecipeSaved!
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    Author: Deborah Rainford

    Ingredients

    • 500 g (1 lb) leftover turkey, shredded
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1 ½ teaspoons paprika, regular or smoked
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon light or dark brown sugar
    • 100 ml (⅓ cups) chicken stock, made with a stock cube or pot
    • Juice of 1 orange
    • 8-10 flour tortillas

    Toppings:

    • 1 avocado, sliced
    • 50 g (¼ cups) Greek yoghurt or sour cream
    • 2 tablespoons Sriracha, optional
    • 50 g (1 ¾ oz) shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1 bunch coriander, cilantro, chopped

    Instructions

    Prepare the Turkey:

    • In a medium bowl, mix the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Toss the shredded turkey with the spice mixture until well-coated.

    Cook the Onions and Turkey:

    • Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened but not colored, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the seasoned turkey to the pan. Pour in the chicken stock and orange juice. Simmer gently, uncovered, until the liquid has been absorbed into the turkey, about 10 minutes.

    Prepare the Toppings:

    • In a small bowl, mix the Greek yoghurt or sour cream with the Sriracha until well combined. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to taste.

    Assemble the Tacos:

    • Place some of the spiced turkey filling into each tortilla shell. Add a few slices of fried onions, then top with the spiced (or plain) sour cream, avocado slices, and chopped coriander. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

    Serve:

    • Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

    Notes

    • Storage: Store any leftover turkey filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
    • Variations: Feel free to add other toppings such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or shredded lettuce.
    • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sour cream to control the spice level of your tacos.
    • Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave for a few seconds before assembling the tacos for the best texture.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 447kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 4534mg | Potassium: 520mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 239IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 173mg | Iron: 3mg
    Tried this recipe?Tag Me @savvybites or tag #savvybites!
    Head shot of Deborah Rainford
    Meet the Chef!

    Hi, I'm Debs, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef dedicated to helping you create unforgettable meals on a budget. Discover more about my journey and dive into a world of foolproof recipes designed for those who love to eat well without overspending.

    Learn more about me →

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Kate

      January 04, 2023 at 12:53 pm

      5 stars
      Made this with my leftover turkey and they were incredible. Such a nice change from the regular soup leftovers!

      Reply
      • Deborah Rainford

        January 09, 2023 at 1:46 pm

        Love hearing this, Kate! So happy you liked it!

        Reply
    5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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    Leftover turkey tacos with cheese on a plate.

    Hi, I'm Deborah! A Cordon Bleu graduate with more than 10 years of restaurant cooking experience. I now focus on helping you create easy, delicious and healthy(ish) budget recipes from scratch using only Aldi ingredients. Welcome to my virtual kitchen!

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