Enchilada Casserole is a Tex-Mex inspired dish that brings together layers of savory flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner. This recipe combines the heartiness of ground beef, the earthy sweetness of mushrooms, and the creamy richness of cheese, all enveloped in a blend of tomato sauce and spices. It’s a dish that not only tastes delicious but also comes together relatively quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef: 2 lbs
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced
- Tomato sauce: 1 can (about 15 oz)
- Cheese: 1 lb, shredded (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Flour tortillas: 4
- Corn tortillas: 8-10 (depending on size)
Seasonings and Spices:
- Salt, pepper, and cumin to taste
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 757.5
- Total Fat: 47.3g
- Saturated Fat: 21.9g
- Cholesterol: 151mg
- Sodium: 1404.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 33.2g
- Fiber: 1.9g
- Sugars: 2.9g
- Protein: 48.4g
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
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Cooking the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet during the last five minutes of cooking, allowing them to cook down and absorb flavors.
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Preparing the Sauce:
- Drain the cooked meat mixture of any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, combining well with the meat and mushrooms.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and cumin to taste. Adjust seasoning according to your preference.
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Assembling the Casserole:
- Spread about 2 cups of the meat mixture evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer with flour tortillas, covering the meat mixture.
- Add another 2 cups of the meat mixture over the tortillas, spreading it out evenly.
- Layer again with corn tortillas, ensuring they cover the meat mixture completely.
- Finish by spreading the remaining meat mixture evenly over the top layer of tortillas.
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Adding the Cheese Topping:
- Cut two tortillas into thin strips and mix them with the shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
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Baking the Casserole:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven.
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
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Final Steps:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to set before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Spicy: Add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the meat mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a meatless alternative.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Increase baking time slightly if cooking from cold.
- Serve with: Fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
This Enchilada Casserole recipe not only promises to be a hit at potlucks and family dinners but also offers versatility in ingredients to suit dietary preferences or spice levels. With its straightforward preparation and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in every bite of this delightful casserole!
