The Best Homemade Enchilada Casserole Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade enchilada casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

• Simple Ingredients: You’ll likely already have most of the staples in your pantry, making this dish both budget-friendly and convenient.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite proteins, veggies, or cheese to make it uniquely yours—every bite feels tailored to your taste.
• Leftover Heaven: It reheats like a dream, so you can enjoy the deliciousness all over again the next day!

Recipe

Enchilada casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines layers of tortillas, seasoned meat, cheese, and enchilada sauce for a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe simplifies the traditional enchilada process while delivering the same delicious results.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or shredded chicken
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
• 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken with the chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the black beans and corn, mixing well.
4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Layer tortillas over the sauce, slightly overlapping, followed by half of the meat mixture and a portion of the cheese. Repeat layers, ending with tortillas, enchilada sauce, and a generous layer of cheese on top.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings if desired.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add additional beans or roasted vegetables.
• Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.

Equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Skillet

creMeasurementsDo not write commentary/preview text, only what is asked. Mixing bowl

Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Cuisine:

Mexican

Serving:

6-8 servings

Nutrition

This enchilada casserole is a delicious and hearty dish packed with flavor. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my enchilada casserole with fresh, crunchy salads, like a simple avocado-lime mix or a tangy corn and black bean salad. If you’re craving something heartier, try warm sides like cilantro-lime rice or roasted sweet potatoes—they balance the flavors perfectly. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra touch!

Fresh Salad Ideas

When I’m whipping up a hearty dish like homemade enchilada casserole, I love balancing it with something fresh and light—like a crisp salad. A simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado adds brightness. For extra crunch, toss in some toasted pepitas or crushed tortilla strips. A tangy lime vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add radishes or jicama for a peppery bite. The key is keeping it vibrant and easy—no need to overcomplicate it. A fresh salad makes every bite of that cheesy, spicy casserole even more satisfying.

Perfect Side Dishes

A fresh salad is a great start, but let’s round out that enchilada casserole with sides that bring even more flavor and texture to the table. I love serving cilantro-lime rice—it’s zesty and pairs perfectly with the rich casserole. Warm refried beans add creaminess, while grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder adds a smoky bite. Don’t forget avocado slices or guacamole for a cool, creamy contrast. Sometimes, I’ll throw in roasted veggies like peppers and zucchini for a healthy twist. These sides make every bite feel like a fiesta!

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younes

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