This Healthy Enchilada Skillet Dinner is a tasty one-pan meal packed with beans, veggies, and spices. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor—who doesn’t love a meal that cleans up easy?
I enjoy serving this with a sprinkle of cheese on top and some fresh avocado. It’s just a fun way to eat enchiladas without all the fuss. Plus, you can whip it up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for cooking, but you could use avocado oil or even a little coconut oil if you prefer! They have similar health benefits.
Ground Turkey/Chicken: I love using lean ground turkey for a healthy protein option. If you’re vegetarian, just add an extra can of beans or some lentils for protein.
Black Beans: They’re packed with fiber! If you’re out of black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans will work just as well. Don’t hesitate to mix things up!
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is quick, but homemade is often healthier. You can use salsa in a pinch for a different flavor profile.
Corn: Canned corn is easy and delicious, but if you have fresh or frozen corn, those can really elevate the dish!
How Do I Make Sure My Skillet Dinner is Packed with Flavor?
Getting the flavors just right is key! Start with sautéing veggies like onions and peppers to unleash their sweetness. Cooking them slowly helps. Don’t rush it!
- Keep your heat at medium and let them sweat, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Adding spices—like cumin and chili powder—early on really allows the flavors to deepen. Monitor them closely so they don’t scorch!
- If you like a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños.
Incorporate everything slowly, allowing time for the ingredients to blend and create a delicious harmony of flavors. Trust your taste buds—if it needs salt or pepper, add a dash more!
Healthy Enchilada Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken (optional for vegetarian version, substitute with extra beans)
For the Filling:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced avocado, for topping
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Enchilada Skillet Dinner will take about 15 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook. In roughly 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready for the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Garlic:
After the veggies have softened, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’re looking for that lovely aroma, so be sure not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Meat (Optional):
If you’re using ground turkey or chicken, add it to the skillet now. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Be sure to season with salt and pepper while cooking.
4. Mix in the Filling Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Mix everything well to combine all those delicious flavors!
5. Incorporate the Grains:
Add in the cooked brown rice or quinoa, mixing it into the skillet mixture. Let it cook together for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of spice!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top of the skillet mixture. Now, cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a deliciously gooey topping.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve your enchilada skillet with sliced avocado and lime wedges on the side, ready for everyone to dig in!
Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful enchilada skillet for an easy weeknight dinner! It’s sure to please the whole family!
FAQ for Healthy Enchilada Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Different Proteins?
Absolutely! You can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken with other proteins like ground beef, beans, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this skillet dinner vegan, simply replace the ground meat with extra beans or lentils, use a vegan cheese alternative, and ensure your enchilada sauce doesn’t contain meat products. You’ll have a delicious plant-based meal in no time!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors will blend even more deliciously!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps as directed. It’s a great way to save time on a busy weeknight!
