Cathy'S Enchilada Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, olives, and melted Monterey Jack cheese layered with tortillas, perfect for satisfying family dinners with a Mexican flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the Mexican-style tomato sauce, tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and 1 1/4 cups water in a saucepan.
- Warm the mixture over low heat.
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped garlic in a skillet, stirring until crumbly.
- Add the chopped ripe olives, salt, and 1/2 cup of the tomato mixture to the skillet.
- Mix well to combine.
- Layer tortillas, beef mixture, and grated Monterey Jack cheese in a casserole dish.
- Repeat layers as desired, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the beef mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a vegetarian version, use black beans or lentils instead of meat. You can also swap out Monterey Jack cheese for a sharper cheddar or a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cathy’s Enchilada Casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, add jalapeños or serve with sour cream. This dish pairs beautifully with Lynda'S Taco Soup for a hearty Mexican-themed dinner. Enjoy it with tortilla chips for added crunch!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover enchilada casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cathy'S Enchilada Casserole contains roughly 714 calories, with 20g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2309mg per serving (100% 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 freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes a convenient meal for busy nights.
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).