Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. It is easy to prepare and makes a great meal for families or gatherings with friends. This casserole combines layers of tortillas, seasoned chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce, making every bite a tasty experience.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it is simple and quick to make, which means you can spend more time enjoying it with family and friends. Second, it is customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for beef or beans. Finally, it is a crowd-pleaser! Everyone loves cheesy, hearty meals, and this casserole fits the bill.
How to Make Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 12 medium-sized flour tortillas
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese or cheese of choice
- 10 ounce red enchilada sauce
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Cook the ground beef in a large non-stick pan or skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin to the pan. Stir until the spices evenly coat the meat.
- Stir the corn and diced tomatoes into the beef mixture.
- Place 4 tortillas on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Top the tortillas with a few spoonfuls of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
- Continue this process two more times, creating layers with the tortillas, beef, and cheese.
- Finish by topping the dish with the enchilada sauce. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees F or until the cheese is bubbly.
How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Serve Chicken Enchilada Casserole hot from the oven. You can add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. It goes well with a side salad or some rice to make the meal complete.
How to Store Chicken Enchilada Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later; just make sure to cover it tightly. Frozen casserole can last for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some diced bell peppers or black beans to the beef mixture.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a different texture.
- If you like it spicy, add jalapeños or use spicy enchilada sauce.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef. Just mix the chicken with the spices and proceed as usual. This change makes the casserole even quicker to prepare!
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
How do I reheat the leftover casserole?
To reheat, place the leftover casserole in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend. Choose what you enjoy the most!
