🍽️ Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole 🌮
Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delicious and comforting Tex-Mex dish that combines the flavors of enchiladas with the ease of a casserole. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you’re craving a hearty and flavorful meal.
📜 History:
The exact origin of this specific casserole recipe isn’t well-documented, but it’s a modern twist on traditional Mexican enchiladas. Enchiladas have a long history in Mexican cuisine, dating back to pre-Columbian times. The word “enchilada” comes from the Spanish word “enchilar,” which means “to season with chili.” Enchiladas typically consist of tortillas filled with various ingredients, rolled, and topped with chili sauce. Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole simplifies the process, making it easier to prepare for larger groups.
🥘 Components:
- Ground Beef: The main protein in this dish, adding richness and flavor.
- Flour Tortillas: Used to wrap the beef and cheese mixture.
- Enchilada Sauce: Typically red or green, this sauce gives the dish its signature flavor.
- Cheese: Usually cheddar or Monterey Jack, which melts and adds a creamy texture.
- Onions and Bell Peppers: For added flavor and texture.
- Spices: Common seasonings include cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Toppings: Garnishes can include chopped cilantro, sliced olives, sour cream, and avocado.
📝 Steps to Prepare Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
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Season the Beef: Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the beef and sauté until they become tender. Season with your choice of spices, like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder, to taste.
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Layer the Casserole: Begin by placing a layer of tortillas on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Add a portion of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of enchilada sauce and cheese. Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
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Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbling.
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Broil (Optional): If you want the cheese to be golden and bubbly on top, remove the foil and broil the casserole for a few minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve the casserole with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sliced olives, sour cream, and avocado.
⏰ Cooking Time:
Preparation and cooking time usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, making it a relatively quick and satisfying meal option.
Enjoy your Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole! 🌯🧀🌶️
Certainly, here are some nutrition facts and health information for Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 450-550 kcal
- Total Fat: 25-30g
- Saturated Fat: 10-12g
- Cholesterol: 65-75mg
- Sodium: 700-800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-4g
- Sugars: 2-3g
- Protein: 20-25g
Health Information:
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Protein: This dish provides a good amount of protein from the ground beef and cheese. Protein is essential for muscle development and overall body function.
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Calories: The calorie content of this casserole can vary depending on the portion size and ingredients used. It’s a hearty dish, so be mindful of portion control if you’re watching your calorie intake.
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Fat: This casserole is moderately high in fat, primarily due to the ground beef and cheese. While fats are an important part of a balanced diet, it’s advisable to consume them in moderation.
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Sodium: Enchilada sauce and cheese can contribute to the sodium content. High sodium intake may increase blood pressure, so individuals with hypertension should be cautious.
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Fiber: The fiber content comes mainly from the tortillas and the vegetables. Fiber is good for digestion and can help you feel full longer.
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Added Ingredients: Consider using lean ground beef, low-sodium enchilada sauce, and reduced-fat cheese to make the dish healthier. Adding more vegetables, like spinach or black beans, can increase the fiber and nutrient content.
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Balance: While Babygirl’s Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole is delicious, it’s a comfort food that should be enjoyed in moderation. It’s a treat, so balance it with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins for overall health.
As with any recipe, the specific nutritional values can vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used. If you have specific dietary concerns or are trying to manage your nutrition intake, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to tailor your meals to your needs.