Enchilada Squares
Enchilada Squares are savory, cheesy baked casserole featuring seasoned ground meat, olives, and crunchy corn chips, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold Mexican flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is cooked and the onions are soft.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly on the bottom of a 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Beat 2 eggs, canned milk, tomato sauce, and enchilada mix together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the meat in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with sliced ripe olives.
- Top with corn chips.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the mixture is firm in the center.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. If you'd like to incorporate more vegetables, bell peppers or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. To save time, use pre-cooked shredded meat or a store-bought enchilada sauce instead of making your own.
Serving Suggestions
These enchilada squares are perfect as a main dish, and they pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a Tortilla Roll for a delightful appetizer spread at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchilada squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are warm but not overcooked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Enchilada Squares contains roughly 830 calories, with 21g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% 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 make enchilada squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchilada squares in advance. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of corn chips?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to corn chips, try using baked tortilla chips or crushed whole grain crackers. You can also omit the chips altogether and replace them with a layer of sautéed vegetables for a gluten-free and low-carb option.
Can I freeze enchilada squares?
Absolutely! Enchilada squares freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).