In this listicle, we dive into three innovative and must-try twists on the classic beef enchilada casserole.
These variations take your culinary experience to new heights, promising to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Each twist is not just a change in flavor but an adventure in itself!
Let’s explore these delightful options:
Introduction
Beef enchilada casserole is a simple-to-make layered dish that ties in all the wonderful flavors of traditional enchiladas into a convenient casserole form.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, these twists will elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
Customize your casserole with other popular enchilada ingredients like rice, black beans, sour cream, or green onions, if desired!
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground Beef: 2 pounds of ground beef (preferably 80/20 ground chuck).
Onion: ½ tablespoon of dried minced onion (see recipe notes for fresh onion).
Garlic: 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
Green Chiles: 4.5 ounces of diced green chiles (canned and drained).
Cilantro: 1 bunch of cilantro, chopped (reserve some for garnish if desired).
Tomato: ½ cup of diced tomato (or use petite diced canned tomatoes).
Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon of lime juice.
Enchilada Sauce: 2 cups of enchilada sauce (homemade or 16 ounces of canned red enchilada sauce).
Flour Tortillas: 8 large flour tortillas (8-12 tortillas, more for smaller corn tortillas).
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup of shredded Monterey jack cheese.
Equipment
You’ll need the following kitchen tools:
Grater set
Skillet
Spatula
9×13 baking pan or casserole dish
Instructions
Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat your 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain excess fat.
Add Flavor: Mix in the dried minced onion, minced garlic, diced green chiles, chopped cilantro, diced tomato, and lime juice.
Remove from heat.
Assemble Casserole: Pour about ¼ cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of your baking pan.
Layer 2-3 tortillas on top.
Add ⅓ of the ground beef mixture, ⅓ of the combined shredded cheeses, and ⅓ of the remaining red enchilada sauce.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Serve: Garnish with reserved cilantro and serve hot.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Health Benefits
Protein: Beef provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
Vitamins and Minerals: Cilantro and tomatoes offer vitamins A and C, while green chiles provide vitamin E.
Antioxidants: Garlic and onions contain antioxidants that support overall health.
Calcium: Cheese contributes to bone health.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the beef for black beans or roasted vegetables.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, portion and freeze for future meals.
Can I add more spice?
Adjust the green chiles or add jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I use corn tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas work beautifully in this casserole.