How to Make a Cheesy Enchilada Casserole
A cheesy enchilada casserole is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine into a convenient, easy-to-make meal. Layered with tortillas, a savory filling, and plenty of melted cheese, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here’s how to make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 10-12 corn tortillas
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced jalapeños and chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the meat and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Add Vegetables and Sauce:
- Add the drained tomatoes, black beans, corn, and half of the enchilada sauce to the meat mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of corn tortillas over the sauce, overlapping as needed.
- Spoon half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with a layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with sliced jalapeños and chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips for Success
- Protein Variations: Feel free to use ground turkey, pork, or even tofu as a substitute for beef or chicken.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce and adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Add Toppings: Top the casserole with sliced avocado, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This cheesy enchilada casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich taste of enchiladas in a convenient, layered casserole format!