Enchilada Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings the family together, this Enchilada Casserole is just what you need! It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures, with layers of soft corn tortillas, savory beef, and gooey cheese. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

This dish has become a staple in my home because it’s not only delicious but also easy to make. You can whip it up in under 90 minutes, which makes it perfect for those nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. I can already hear the compliments as it comes out of the oven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll be enjoying your meal in no time.
• Kid-friendly appeal: Kids love cheesy casseroles, and this one is no exception! It’s packed with flavors they’ll adore.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat—perfect for busy days!
• Deliciously customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand; it’s versatile and forgiving.
• Comfort food at its best: Each bite is warm, hearty, and satisfying—perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Enchilada Casserole, you’ll want to gather some simple, wholesome ingredients. Most are pantry staples that you might already have on hand!

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons flour, all-purpose
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken (or vegetable stock)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

For the Filling

• 1 pound 90/10 ground beef
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (7-ounce) can diced green chiles
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups corn, canned or frozen

For Assembly

• 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas
• 1½ cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
• 1½ cups medium cheddar cheese, shredded

Optional Toppings

• Pico de gallo
• Pickled onions
• Sour cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Enchilada Casserole is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients!

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the meat entirely and add more beans or extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick if you like your food with some heat.
• Cheese choices: Switch up the cheeses—Monterey Jack or even vegan cheese work great too!

How to Make Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F with a rack in the center position. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the vegetable oil and flour. Whisk constantly until smooth—this will create a roux that thickens your sauce beautifully. Once bubbling, add your spices and tomato paste. Gradually whisk in your stock until everything is well blended. Bring it to a simmer; this step infuses all those great flavors into your sauce!

Step 2: Cook the Filling

While your sauce simmers away, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef along with salt and pepper. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned—this creates that delicious foundation for your casserole! Next, toss in your onion and bell pepper; cooking them until softened adds sweetness that balances out the dish perfectly. Stir in garlic last since we only need it to cook briefly until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Incorporate diced green chiles, black beans, corn, and half of your enchilada sauce into the skillet. This mixture is where all those flavors meld together! Let everything warm through for about five minutes before removing from heat.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now for some fun! Dip half of your tortillas into that rich enchilada sauce before laying them in a single layer at the bottom of a baking dish. Top them with half of that savory beef filling followed by half of both cheeses. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling—don’t forget to finish off with more cheese on top!

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top! This final step allows that cheese to melt perfectly into every nook and cranny. Serve warm topped with pico de gallo or sour cream if desired.

Enjoy this warm hug of a dish at your next dinner gathering or just on a cozy night in; either way, it’s bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Enchilada Casserole

Making the perfect enchilada casserole is all about attention to detail and a little bit of love. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavor significantly, making your casserole taste homemade and vibrant.
• Layer wisely: Alternate layers of tortillas, filling, and cheese for even melting and flavor distribution. This ensures every bite is as delicious as the last!
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before serving helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut into portions without falling apart.
• Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and diced green chiles based on your spice preference. This way, everyone can enjoy it at their desired heat level.
• Make it ahead: Prepare your enchilada casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish!

How to Serve Enchilada Casserole

Presenting your enchilada casserole can be as fun as making it! With a few simple touches, you can create an inviting meal that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a cool contrast to the spiciness of the dish, enhancing both texture and flavor.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up each bite with a zesty kick that balances the richness of the cheese.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices makes for a perfect companion that soaks up extra sauce.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a hearty element to the meal while keeping with authentic Mexican cuisine.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the warmth of the casserole.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch to your plate, making it an excellent side choice.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to make an amazing enchilada casserole that everyone will rave about! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This enchilada casserole is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator or freezer, and enjoy it whenever you’re craving a comforting meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the casserole is fully cooled before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• For quicker reheating, use the microwave; heat on medium power until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this enchilada casserole.

Can I make enchilada casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with enchilada casserole?

This dish pairs well with sides like Mexican rice, guacamole, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with fresh pico de gallo and sour cream for extra flavor!

How long does enchilada casserole last?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will last for about 3-4 days. If you freeze it, aim to eat it within 2-3 months for the best taste and texture.

Can I customize my enchilada casserole?

Yes! Feel free to swap out ingredients such as using different beans or vegetables based on your preferences. You can also alter the cheese blend as desired!

Final Thoughts

This enchilada casserole is truly a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite. I hope you have fun making this recipe and sharing it with loved ones! Happy cooking!