Turn Thanksgiving leftovers into a fiesta with our easy leftover turkey loaded nachos. Irresistible and quick to make! Get ready for a taste explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Leftover Turkey Loaded Nachos Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover turkey shredded
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños optional
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a large baking sheet, spread out a layer of tortilla chips.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chips.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Evenly distribute the turkey mixture over the chips.
- Top with black beans, corn, diced red onion, black olives, and pickled jalapeños (if you like some heat).
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Chips: Opt for sturdy tortilla chips that can withstand the toppings without getting soggy. Thick-cut or restaurant-style tortilla chips work best.
- Turkey Variations: Don't limit yourself to just shredded turkey. You can use diced turkey or even turkey ground meat for a different texture.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer milder nachos, skip the pickled jalapeños. For extra heat, consider adding hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Sliced avocado, diced bell peppers, or a dollop of Greek yogurt can all be excellent additions.
- Cheese Melting Trick: To ensure even cheese melting, spread the cheese over the turkey rather than directly on the chips.
- Serving Warm: These nachos are best enjoyed immediately while they are hot and the cheese is gooey. Serve them as soon as they come out of the oven for the ultimate flavor and texture.
- Meal Versatility: While this recipe is perfect for using up Thanksgiving turkey leftovers, it can also be an ideal dish for game day, movie night, or any casual gathering.
- Dietary Modifications: For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and use additional beans or meat substitutes like tofu or tempeh. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave, but note that the chips may lose some crispiness upon reheating.
- Double or Halve the Recipe: Adjust the quantities according to your needs. You can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd or halve it for a quick snack for two.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side for dipping. A refreshing side salad or coleslaw can complement the richness of the nachos.
- Safety Note: Be cautious when handling pickled jalapeños and wash your hands thoroughly afterward, avoiding contact with your eyes.
Why Make Leftover Turkey Loaded Nachos Recipe?
Leftover turkey often ends up as uninspiring sandwiches, but this loaded nachos recipe transforms those leftovers into a savory, cheesy delight. It’s a fantastic way to add some excitement to your post-Thanksgiving meals.
How Difficult Is It To Make Leftover Turkey Loaded Nachos Recipe?
Not difficult at all! With just a few simple steps, you can turn your leftovers into a scrumptious dish that’s perfect for a quick snack or even a casual dinner.
How Does Leftover Turkey Loaded Nachos Recipe Taste?
These loaded nachos are a flavor explosion! The turkey adds a rich, meaty taste, while the toppings provide a burst of freshness and a hint of spice. Cheesy, crunchy, and utterly delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other leftover meats besides turkey?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with leftover chicken, and beef too.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the turkey and load up on extra veggies or use meat substitutes.
What other toppings can I add?
Get creative! You can add guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Of course! Experiment with your favorite cheese blends for unique flavors.
How do I keep the nachos from getting soggy?
Layer the ingredients to create a barrier between the chips and wet toppings, and serve promptly.
Delicious Leftover Turkey Loaded Nachos Recipe
After trying this leftover turkey loaded nachos recipe will never feel the the same again about ditching those turkey pieces. It’s a tasty and straightforward way to reinvent your holiday leftovers into a zesty, cheesy treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Say goodbye to dull sandwiches and hello to a fiesta of flavors! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these loaded nachos.
