Enchiladas Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and spicy green chilies layered with corn tortillas and enchilada sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering, it combines bold Mexican-inspired flavors in a simple, baked dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, ground beef, and chopped green chilies until cooked through.
- Add enchilada sauce and cream of chicken soup to the meat mixture and stir well.
- Cut corn tortillas into strips and line the bottom of the casserole dish with them.
- Layer the meat mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Add another layer of tortillas, then meat mixture, and cheese as desired.
- Sprinkle the top with additional cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for ground beef and use whole wheat tortillas. To make it vegetarian, replace the meat with black beans or lentils. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking for easier meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the enchiladas casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. For a complete meal, consider serving with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until hot, taking care not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Enchiladas Casserole contains roughly 287 calories, with 12g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 978mg per serving (43% 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 meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives to beef, providing a leaner option. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation. For a vegetarian version, consider using a mix of black beans and corn.
Can I freeze enchiladas casserole?
Yes, enchiladas casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What type of cheese is best for this dish?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for enchiladas casserole, but you can also use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy twist. A mix of cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile and create a deliciously gooey topping.
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).