Charlie Gibson'S Enchilada Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful enchilada casserole layered with Doritos, topped with sour cream and extra cheese, perfect for a hearty and crowd-pleasing Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Set aside sour cream, 1/2 cup of grated cheese, and 2 cups of Doritos for the topping.
- Crumble the remaining Doritos into a mixing bowl.
- Mix in the chili with beans, enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, grated onion, and remaining cheese.
- Pour the mixture into an 8 1/2 x 11-inch casserole dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread sour cream evenly over the casserole.
- Top with the reserved Doritos and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of grated cheese.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a homemade enchilada sauce or substituting the chili with beans for a spicier version. If you want to make it vegetarian, opt for a meatless chili. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to enhance the dish's flavor profile. This casserole can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this enchilada casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Delores' Wet Burritos for a fun Tex-Mex feast. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or jalapeños for an added kick. Don't forget to serve with extra sour cream or guacamole on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, just be cautious not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlie Gibson'S Enchilada Casserole contains roughly 664 calories, with 23g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% 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 use a different type of chip instead of Doritos?
Yes, you can substitute Doritos with any tortilla chips or even homemade tortilla strips for a fresher taste. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold up in the casserole. You could also try serving it with Tex-Mex-Bagel Chips for a unique twist!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this enchilada casserole gluten-free, ensure that the chili with beans and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free tortilla chips instead of Doritos. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on your dietary needs.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days!
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).