Irresistible Enchilada Casserole: A Flavor Fiesta

The moment you take a whiff of enchilada casserole baking in the oven, your taste buds start doing the cha-cha. The rich aroma of spicy salsa mingling with gooey cheese dances through the air, promising a flavor explosion that will make your mouth water. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a fiesta on a plate that wraps you in warmth and happiness, like your favorite blanket on a chilly day.

I still remember the first time I made this enchilada casserole for my family. My sister declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which, let’s be honest, is quite the compliment coming from someone who lives on toast. We gathered around the table, laughter filling the room as we dove into layers of cheesy goodness. It quickly became our go-to dish for potlucks and cozy movie nights.

I once served this dish at a family gathering and witnessed my cousin’s eyes light up with joy; it was an unforgettable moment that solidified its status as a family favorite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean ground meat for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

• Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought works great, but homemade sauce adds an extra kick.

• Black Beans: Canned beans are convenient; just rinse them for better texture.

• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that melts beautifully.

• Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas work well; cut them into strips for layering.

• Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness; choose yellow or white for the best flavor.

• Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers brighten your casserole while adding crunch and sweetness.

• Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the spices.

• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro enhances freshness; chop finely before sprinkling.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lightly grease it so nothing sticks later.

Sauté the Meat and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add chopped onions and bell peppers until they soften and become aromatic.

Add Beans and Sauce: Stir in black beans and enchilada sauce to combine flavors thoroughly. Let this simmer for about five minutes—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Layer It Up!: Start layering by placing some of the meat mixture at the bottom of your baking dish. Top with tortilla strips followed by cheese; repeat until all ingredients are used up.

Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle additional cheese on top, then bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve!: Once out of the oven, let cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy this cheesy dream of enchilada casserole straight from the oven to your plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning your protein while preparing the sauce. Layer tortillas in a baking dish, adding filling and cheese between each layer for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out proteins or add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn for added color and nutrition. Spice lovers can experiment with different chili powders.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover enchilada casserole in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.

Sometimes, I still recall my first attempt at enchilada casserole—cheese everywhere, but laughter filled the kitchen as we dug in together.

FAQ

Can I make enchilada casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it fresh when ready.

What can I substitute for tortillas?

Consider using corn tortillas or even zucchini slices for a low-carb version.

How do I know when it’s done?

Your enchilada casserole is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

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Cheesy Enchilada Casserole

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Indulge in a delightful cheesy enchilada casserole that brings the fiesta to your dinner table! This easy-to-make dish layers savory ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in rich enchilada sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, each bite promises a burst of bold flavors that will keep your family coming back for more.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 corn or flour tortillas, cut into strips
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until cooked. Add onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in black beans and enchilada sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Layer half of the meat mixture in the baking dish. Add tortilla strips and half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let cool slightly, then serve with sour cream and cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg