Green Enchilada Pie
A hearty layered casserole featuring seasoned ground meat, melted cheese, and green chilies, perfect for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal that appeals to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat slowly in a skillet.
- Season the meat with salt, pepper, and garlic to taste.
- Add chopped onions and cook until soft.
- Incorporate chopped green chilies and cook briefly.
- Add cream of chicken soup and water, then let simmer.
- Dip tortillas in hot butter to soften.
- Layer tortillas in a baking dish, spreading meat mixture and sprinkling grated cheese on top.
- Repeat layers as desired, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use black beans or lentils instead of meat. For added texture, try incorporating corn or diced bell peppers into the layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Green Enchilada Pie with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with sour cream and guacamole for added creaminess. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cilantro or diced avocado. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Enchilada Pie contains roughly 721 calories, with 46g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (92% of the Daily Value), iron (73% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1209mg per serving (53% 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 flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind that they may not hold up as well as corn tortillas in layers. If you choose flour, consider using smaller tortillas and adjusting the baking time to ensure they heat through without becoming too soft.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, use hot jalapeno cheese or add diced jalapenos to the meat mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper between the layers for an extra kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Green Enchilada Pie a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
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).