Layered Enchilada Casserole
A hearty layered casserole combining seasoned beef, crispy potatoes, cheese, and corn chips, perfect for a satisfying family dinner with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a 10-inch skillet.
- Add beef, onions, and garlic and cook until brown, stirring occasionally.
- Drain and discard excess fat.
- Stir in stewed tomatoes, olives, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half the potatoes in a 10 x 2-inch casserole (about 2-quart capacity).
- Cover with half the meat mixture. Sprinkle with coarsely crumbled corn chips and 1 cup cheese.
- Spoon remaining meat mixture over and top with remaining potatoes. Cover with foil.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder. You can also use tortilla chips instead of corn chips for added crunch. Make sure to keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to prevent over-browning.
Serving Suggestions
This Layered Enchilada Casserole pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Consider topping each serving with diced avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing drink like a margarita or iced tea to complement the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to keep moisture in.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Enchilada Casserole contains roughly 165 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1743mg per serving (76% 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 different types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef. For a unique twist, try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even a mix of meats for added flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure that the corn chips and any other processed ingredients are certified gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free frozen fries or substitute with sliced zucchini or eggplant for the layers.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).