Flavourful Enchilada Casserole from Scratch

Enchilada casserole, also known as stacked enchiladas, is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table with its layers of tortillas, seasoned meats or vegetables, and a delightful blend of sauces and cheese. It's a popular option for feeding a family or a crowd, as it's easy to make, allows for personalized variations, and always satisfies its spicy, savory taste.

A Brief Introduction to Enchilada Casserole

Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish, believed to date back to the Mayans, Toltecs, and Aztecs, who were known to roll tortillas around their food. The modern version, which includes the casserole, is a blend of indigenous and European cuisines.

The casserole style differs from classic rolled enchiladas in that the ingredients are layered more like lasagna, and it's baked in a dish, making it less hands-on and perfect for those who are not as keen on assembling delicately wrapped tortillas.

Ingredients Needed

For a standard, meat-filled enchilada casserole, you'll need the following key ingredients:

• Tortillas: Flour or corn, about 12, depending on the size of your casserole dish.

• Meat filling: Ground beef, chicken, or turkey.

• Enchilada sauce: You can make your own from tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin, or use a store-bought variety.

• Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, and corn add texture and nutrition.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend for that gooey, cheesy topping.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and perhaps some garlic for extra flavor in the meat and sauce.
• Optional: Black beans or refried beans can be added to the layers for extra protein, and jalapeños or other hot peppers if you like it spicy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to make an enchilada casserole using beef and a homemade red enchilada sauce:

Step 1: Prepare the Enchilada Sauce

Ingredients you'll need for the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons of chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of oregano
• 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and keep stirring for about one minute until the mixture is a light brown color.
3. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano.
4. Gradually stir in the broth until there are no lumps.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add salt to taste and set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

Ingredients you'll need for the meat filling:

• 1 pound of ground beef (or your choice of meat)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup of corn
• Enchilada sauce (from step 1)
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
2. Add the onion and pepper and cook until they are soft.
3. Add the corn and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in 1 cup of the prepared enchilada sauce.
5. Simmer until the sauce slightly thickens and the meat is well combined with the veggies.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (22x33 cm) baking dish.
3. Spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce (about 1/4 cup) on the bottom of the dish.
4. Place 4 tortillas over the sauce, overlapping if needed.
5. Spread half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, followed by about 1/3 of the cheese.
6. Add a second layer of tortillas, then the rest of the meat, and another 1/3 of the cheese.
7. Top with a final layer of tortillas, the rest of the enchilada sauce, and the remaining cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Serve with a dollop of sour cream, a side of Mexican rice, and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• To boost the veggie content, consider adding chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the meat mixture.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• If you prefer a milder dish, use mild enchilada sauce and cheese.
• For a vegetarian option, swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the enchilada casserole is a flexible affair. Here are a few favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Garnish with sliced green onions and a few dashes of hot sauce after baking.
• Serve with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a festive touch.
• Layer sour cream or a drizzle of lime over each slice for a cooling contrast.

Conclusion

Enchilada casserole is a versatile and delicious main course that promises to please a variety of palates. Whether you're following this guide to the letter or using it as a starting point for your own culinary adventure, the key is to enjoy the process and savor the resulting meal. Buena suerte and buen provecho!