Name: Thanksgiving Enchiladas: Transform Leftovers into Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 6 10-inch flour tortillas (These provide the perfect wrap for your flavorful filling and help create a satisfying bite.); 3 cups leftover heated turkey gravy (Essential for moisture and flavor; if you have extra homemade gravy, that makes it even better!); 1.5 pounds leftover cooked turkey (The star protein; mix both white and dark meat for wonderful variety.); 1 pound leftover stuffing (Adds texture and enhances the nostalgic flavors; swap with gluten-free stuffing if necessary.); 6 tablespoons whole berry cranberry sauce (This tangy addition beautifully balances the savory elements.); 0.25 cup fresh sage, chopped small (An herbal touch; dried sage can be used as a substitute, just remember to halve the amount.); 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (Melts deliciously and adds creaminess; try cheddar or spicy pepper jack for a twist.)

As the last slice of pumpkin pie disappears, I find myself standing in front of the fridge, contemplating the treasure trove of Thanksgiving leftovers waiting to be transformed. Enter Thanksgiving Enchiladas—a delightful twist that breathes new life into cooked turkey, fluffy stuffing, and tangy cranberry sauce. This comforting dish not only allows you to savor those holiday flavors in a whole new way but is also incredibly simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, these enchiladas provide a cozy meal that will please the entire family, plus it’s an ingenious way to ensure nothing goes to waste. Are you ready to take your leftovers on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why will you adore Thanksgiving Enchiladas?

Comforting, Flavor-Packed Delight: Each bite brims with savory turkey and rich gravy, ensuring you experience the joy of Thanksgiving once more.
Quick and Easy: The step-by-step process means you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time—perfect for those busy nights!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving family or friends, everyone will love this unique twist on traditional flavors, leaving them asking for seconds.
Flexible Ingredients: Mix and match your leftovers, adding other veggies or using different cheeses for a personalized touch. Don’t forget to pair with a fresh salad to complete the meal!
Zero Waste Solution: Transforming your leftovers into these delicious encapsulated flavors means you’re being resourceful and creative in the kitchen!

Thanksgiving Enchiladas Ingredients

For the Enchiladas
• 6 10-inch flour tortillas – These provide the perfect wrap for your flavorful filling and help create a satisfying bite.
• 3 cups leftover heated turkey gravy – Essential for moisture and flavor; if you have extra homemade gravy, that makes it even better!
• 1 1/2 pounds leftover cooked turkey – The star protein in your Thanksgiving Enchiladas; mix both white and dark meat for wonderful variety.
• 1 pound leftover stuffing – Adds texture and enhances the nostalgic flavors of the seasonal feast; swap with gluten-free stuffing if necessary.

For the Flavor Boost
• 6 tablespoons whole berry cranberry sauce – This tangy addition beautifully balances the savory elements; feel free to use homemade cranberry relish for a fresher taste!
• 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped small – An herbal touch that elevates the overall flavor profile; dried sage can be used as a substitute, just remember to halve the amount.

For the Topping
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts deliciously and adds creaminess on top; if you’re looking for a twist, try cheddar or spicy pepper jack instead for an exciting flavor kick.

Enjoy creating these Thanksgiving Enchiladas, turning your holiday leftovers into a warm comfort food delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for the toasty, warm Thanksgiving Enchiladas that await you. This temperature is ideal for melting the cheese and ensuring the enchiladas bake evenly. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients to streamline the process.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent the enchiladas from sticking. This step is key for achieving a delightful, easy-clean up later. Once your dish is ready, spread 1 cup of heated turkey gravy evenly across the bottom, creating a luscious base that infuses the tortillas with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling
On a clean surface or cutting board, lay out the tortillas and start filling each one with a generous portion of leftover turkey, stuffing, and a spoonful of whole berry cranberry sauce. Sprinkle some fresh chopped sage on top for a burst of herbaceous flavor. Aim for a balanced mix, allowing for enough filling but not so much that the tortillas can’t wrap around.

Step 4: Roll the Tortillas
Gently roll each tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling stays snugly inside and the seam faces down when placed in the dish. This method prevents the enchiladas from unraveling during baking, keeping each bite packed with that comforting Thanksgiving flavor. Arrange them neatly in the casserole dish, side by side.

Step 5: Add the Gravy and Cheese
Pour the remaining turkey gravy evenly over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they’re well-coated for moisture and flavor. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top, creating a gooey layer that will melt beautifully while baking, giving you that decadent finish your Thanksgiving Enchiladas deserve.

Step 6: Bake and Broil
Place your casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, the enchiladas will heat through, and cheese will melt into a golden bubbly layer. For an extra touch, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve a perfect golden-brown finish on top, enhancing both texture and visual appeal.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully remove the casseroles from the oven and let them sit for a few moments. This cooling time allows for easier portioning. Serve the Thanksgiving Enchiladas hot alongside extra cranberry sauce, letting your family indulge in this delightful dish that turns holiday leftovers into a heartwarming meal everyone will cherish.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Experience the delightful symphony of flavors that complement your cozy dish and create a memorable meal for loved ones.

Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the enchiladas, cleansing the palate with each bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized root vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts enhance the heartiness of the meal, bringing a touch of sweetness and texture.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The soothing, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and gravy, creating a harmonious comfort food experience.
Sautéed Garlic Spinach: Fresh spinach lightly sautéed in garlic adds a vibrant pop of color and nutrition, providing a lively contrast to the warm enchiladas.
Zesty Corn Salsa: Bright, tangy corn salsa with lime and cilantro adds a burst of freshness, perfectly complementing the savory enchiladas and enhancing all the flavors.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or refreshing Pinot Grigio can elevate the meal, offering a delightful contrast to the rich comfort of the Thanksgiving Enchiladas.
Homemade Pumpkin Bread Pudding: Finish on a sweet note with this comforting dessert that echoes the flavors of Thanksgiving, offering a warm, spiced indulgence to round out your feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Enchiladas are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance, simply prepare the dish until the point of baking, ensuring you cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. If you’d like to prep even further ahead, the filled and assembled enchiladas can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before cooking. For the best results, just remember to heat the turkey gravy before pouring it over the rolled tortillas right before baking. When it’s time to serve, pop them in the oven and bake until bubbly, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Thanksgiving Enchiladas Variations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Thanksgiving Enchiladas and customize them to fit your taste preferences!

Veggie Boost: Add leftover roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Mixing different textures can elevate your dish!
Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting meal comfortably.
Cheese Swap: Try using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a more extravagant flavor. Each cheese brings its unique character to the dish!
Creamy Addition: Combine cream cheese or sour cream with the turkey gravy to create an ultra-rich, velvety sauce that takes the enchiladas to the next level.
Spicy Variation: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes into your filling for a kick. If you love a bit of heat, this will surely ignite your taste buds!
Cranberry Relish: For a fresher take, swap out the canned cranberry sauce with homemade cranberry relish, providing an eye-catching texture and a burst of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Play around with different fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of sage to introduce unique flavors that complement your turkey.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the enchiladas just before serving to enhance the sweet-savory balance, making every bite a true delight.

Nothing in your fridge needs to go to waste, and you can explore endless options to create your perfect Thanksgiving Enchiladas! For more inspiration on transforming leftovers, don’t miss checking out our leftover transformation ideas.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Room Temperature: Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. It’s best to refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, ensuring they’re heated evenly to enjoy fully.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven for best results, covering with foil to maintain moisture. This will keep the enchiladas delicious and flavorful, retaining that comfort food essence.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Enchiladas

Properly Heat Gravy: Ensure the turkey gravy is heated before use; this allows flavors to meld together beautifully during baking, enhancing your Thanksgiving Enchiladas.
Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling the tortillas; they should roll comfortably. If they burst, you’ll lose all those delicious flavors inside!
Cool Slightly Before Cutting: Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes after baking to set, making it easier to cut into perfect portions without falling apart.
Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, incorporate fresh herbs or homemade cranberry sauce for a vibrant twist on your Thanksgiving Enchiladas—freshness boosts flavor exponentially!
Experiment with Leftovers: Feel free to add other leftover veggies, like mashed potatoes or roast carrots, to customize your enchiladas and elevate their taste!

Thanksgiving Enchiladas Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
Absolutely! If you don’t have leftover turkey, you can use fresh cooked turkey. Just season and cook it as you like before shredding or chopping it for the enchiladas. Boiling until tender or roasting would work beautifully!

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Enchiladas?
To store, place leftover Thanksgiving Enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to maintain that comforting texture.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Enchiladas?
Yes! For freezing, allow them to cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven as usual.

What if my enchiladas are too dry after baking?
If you find your enchiladas dry, it’s usually due to insufficient gravy. To prevent this, always ensure that the tortillas are generously covered with gravy before baking. If it happens, try drizzling a bit of warmed gravy over them just before serving, which should help revive moisture!

Can I add extra vegetables to my Thanksgiving Enchiladas?
Very! You’re welcome to include other leftovers like green beans or mashed potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up fine and mix them in with the turkey and stuffing before filling the tortillas. This makes the dish even more hearty and enjoyable!

Are these Thanksgiving Enchiladas suitable for people with gluten allergies?
If you’re catering to gluten sensitivities, simply swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free varieties available in stores. You can also opt for gluten-free stuffing to customize the dish without sacrificing taste or comfort!