Enchilada Casserole
Enchilada Casserole layers sauce, filling, and topping into a hearty baked meal.
About This Recipe
Enchilada Casserole is built in layers so the filling, sauce, and topping bake together.
Rest the dish briefly before serving so each portion holds its shape.
Ingredients
- ✓1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
- ✓1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
- ✓1 cup salsa
- ✓6 flour tortillas (10 inch)
- ✓2 cups fresh or frozen corn
- ✓4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ✓Optional: Diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, and sour cream
Ingredient Notes
- Filling: Cook wet fillings enough so the casserole is not watery.
- Sauce: Use enough sauce to keep the center moist.
- Topping: Add cheese, crumbs, or pastry for texture.
- Resting: Let the casserole settle before slicing.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Drain the excess grease, then stir in the enchilada sauce and salsa.
- 2
Place two tortillas (overlapping as necessary) in the bottom of a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Cover them with one-third of the meat mixture. Top with 1 cup corn and 1-1/3 cups cheese.
- 3
Repeat the layers once, then finish with the remaining tortillas, meat and cheese.
- 4
Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until bubbly. If desired, garnish with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, and sour cream.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Drain watery fillings before layering.
- Spread sauce evenly.
- Cover if the top browns too quickly.
- Rest before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or chives.
- Spicier version: Increase chili, cayenne, black pepper, or hot sauce.
- Saucy version: Serve with gravy, salsa, pan sauce, or yogurt sauce.
- Meal prep: Use leftovers in bowls, wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
What to Serve With Enchilada Casserole
Serve Enchilada Casserole with a green salad, steamed vegetables, pickles, or simple bread.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat covered with a splash of water, broth, or sauce to restore moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Watery filling: Extra moisture can make the center loose.
- Uneven layers: Uneven layers bake and serve poorly.
- Overbrowned top: Cover loosely if the top browns too fast.
- No rest time: Resting helps slices hold together.
FAQ
Can I make Enchilada Casserole ahead?
Yes. Reheat with a little extra liquid or sauce if needed.
How do I avoid mushy texture?
Stop cooking when just tender and let carryover heat finish the job.
Can I add vegetables or protein?
Yes, as long as extra moisture is controlled.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered with a splash of liquid to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 535 calories
- Carbohydrates: 39g carbohydrate (6g sugars
- Cholesterol: 91mg cholesterol
- Fiber: 3g fiber)
- Protein: 30g protein.
- Sodium: 1119mg sodium
- Fat: 29g fat (14g saturated fat)