Tortilla Bake
A hearty tortilla bake layered with seasoned ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the cooked ground turkey, chopped onion, beef broth mix, chopped drained tomatoes, picante sauce, tomato sauce, chopped green chilies, and cooked pinto beans.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Pour some of the sauce mixture into the bottom of a 12x7x2 inch dish to barely cover the bottom.
- Place a tortilla in the dish, then pour about 1/4 cup of sauce in the middle of the tortilla, roll it up, and place it in the baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and sauce, arranging them in the dish.
- Top the assembled tortillas with shredded jack or Cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish and bake in a preheated 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley in the filling. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can substitute for ground turkey. You can also use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option. To enhance the dish, try adding black olives or jalapeños for extra zest. This recipe also works well with other Mexican recipes for a themed dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tortilla bake hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sour cream for a creamy touch. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider offering chips and Carmen's Ole Dip as an appetizer. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, and it can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tortilla bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until hot. Freezing is also an option; just thaw and reheat as desired.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortilla Bake contains roughly 931 calories, with 40g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 997mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this tortilla bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tortilla bake a day in advance. Assemble the dish completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I substitute for pinto beans?
If you don't have pinto beans, you can substitute black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture. Both options will work well in this tortilla bake and add a nice protein boost to the dish.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While jack and Cheddar cheese are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).