Enchilada Casserole Recipe by InfoStarBase

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Enchilada Casserole, a delicious twist on a classic! This hearty dish layers tender tortillas with a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, this casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to enjoy all your favorite enchilada ingredients in one dish.

Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

To create this delightful Enchilada Casserole, you will need:

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce for a rich base
• 2 to 3 tablespoons chili powder, depending on your spice preference
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 flour tortillas, these will serve as the main structure
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup, adding creaminess
• 3/4 cup milk to thin out the soup
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded for that gooey topping

Instructions

Brown the Meat

Begin your casserole by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic (or garlic powder) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. This step is essential not only for flavor but also for ensuring the meat is fully cooked. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.

Add Sauce and Seasoning

Next, stir in the tomato sauce and chili powder. The chili powder will give your casserole a lovely warmth and depth of flavor. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to heat thoroughly, stirring occasionally. This will ensure the spices are evenly distributed and infuse the ground beef with robust flavor.

Prepare the Crockpot

For this recipe, you’ll want to prepare your crockpot. Spray the interior of the casserole with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This small step will make cleanup a breeze later on.

Layer the Ingredients

Now it’s time to start layering your casserole. Line the bottom of the crockpot with two flour tortillas, overlapping them slightly if necessary, to cover the surface.

Spread 1/3 of the meat mixture over the tortillas, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheese. The cheese helps bind everything together and adds the delicious, cheesy texture we love in enchiladas.

Repeat this layering process twice more, starting with another pair of tortillas, then adding meat and cheese on top, creating three layers in total. Finish by placing two more tortillas on top to build a solid base.

Add Soup Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and milk. Mix well until the soup is smooth and evenly combined. Pour this mixture over the top layer of tortillas, distributing it evenly to moisten everything below. The soup’s creaminess adds a delightful richness to the casserole.

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, ensuring it covers the soup mixture well. This will create a wonderfully cheesy crust as it melts during cooking.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the tortillas soften perfectly, making each bite mouth-watering. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can bake the casserole in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes in a deep casserole dish. Baking will also give the cheese a nice golden color.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish your slices with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or avocado slices. Each serving offers a comforting mix of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Your Enchilada Casserole is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. It’s perfect for those cozy family dinners or for entertaining guests. Enjoy this scrumptious meal that brings the zest of traditional enchiladas to your table without all the fuss!