Enchilada Casserole

This Enchilada Casserole is a deliciously layered dish that brings all the bold flavors of traditional enchiladas into an easy-to-make, family-friendly bake. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a flavorful enchilada sauce, all nestled between soft tortillas. The best part is that it’s customizable—whether you prefer beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian version, this casserole can be adapted to suit your taste. Topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado, and fresh cilantro, it’s a complete meal that’s satisfying and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or chicken, if preferred)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the meat: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies (if using), and black beans. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place two tortillas on top of the sauce, overlapping them if needed. Add a layer of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers—tortillas, meat, cheese—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tortillas on top.
5. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer of tortillas and sprinkle generously with cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro as desired.

Enjoy your hearty, flavorful enchilada casserole!