Slow Cooker Beef Enchilada Casserole
An easy one pot meal! Beef cooks with the sauce all day, then the casserole is put together and cooked a bit longer.
An easy one pot meal! Beef cooks with the sauce all day, then the casserole is put together and cooked a bit longer.
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 white onion (diced)
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 2 lbs beef stew meat cubes
- 10 oz can red enchilada sauce
- 16 oz jar pace picante salsa ((i use medium))
- 4 oz can fire roasted green chiles
- 12 soft corn tortillas ((i use about 12 ounces))
- 3 cups colby jack cheese (divided)
- 1 bunch green onion (divided)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
- Carbohydrate 3.74550716964139 g
- Cholesterol 40.25625 mg
- Fat 13.7121981504184 g
- Fiber 0.670500381355488 g
- Protein 10.5370667930857 g
- Saturated Fat 8.5864723995239 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (300g)
- Sodium 260.083375242721 mg
- Sugar 3.0750067882859 g
- Trans Fat 0.727965020846666 g
- Calories 179 calories
Step-by-step
- Add the beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the enchilada sauce, salsa, green chiles, garlic, onion, chili powder, cumin and pepper.
- Stir.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
- When the cooking time is done. Cut the corn tortillas into strips, add to the slow cooker along with 1 cup of the cheese and half of the green onions.
- Stir and flatten out with a spatula.
- Sprinkle over remaining cheese.
- Add the lid back on the slow cooker and continue cooking for 30 more minutes on high.
- Sprinkle with remaining green onion and tomatoes.
- Serve and enjoy!
My Go-To Weeknight Slow Cooker Meal: Beef Enchilada Casserole
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work, family, and trying to maintain a semblance of a social life leaves little room for elaborate cooking projects. That's why I rely heavily on my trusty slow cooker – it’s my secret weapon for creating delicious, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This Slow Cooker Beef Enchilada Casserole is a perfect example of a recipe that delivers big on flavor and convenience.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The beef simmers gently in a rich sauce all day, developing incredible depth of flavor. While the beef is happily bubbling away, I can focus on other things – getting the kids ready for school, tackling emails, or even squeezing in a quick workout. When it's time to assemble the casserole, it only takes a few minutes to layer the cooked beef, tortillas, and cheese. Another short burst in the slow cooker, and dinner is served! It's the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet is remarkably straightforward to make. The entire process, from start to finish, feels less like a chore and more like a relaxing culinary adventure, even on my busiest days.
This recipe has become a staple in our household. My kids absolutely love it – who doesn't adore cheesy, saucy enchiladas? It's also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add in your favorite beans, or even swap out the salsa for something spicier. The possibilities are endless! But honestly, even the basic recipe is a winner. It's the kind of meal that makes everyone happy, and that's what truly matters.
Beyond the Recipe: This isn't just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of efficient cooking. It's a reminder that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and a reliable appliance like a slow cooker, even the busiest individuals can enjoy home-cooked meals that taste like they took hours to prepare. The ease and satisfaction this recipe provides free up my evenings, allowing me to connect with my family and unwind after a long day, instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with seasoned black beans or lentils.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms into the sauce.
- Different cheese: Experiment with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend.
- Creamy variation: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
The Slow Cooker's Magic: The slow cooker truly shines in this recipe. The low and slow cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and flavorful. The sauce thickens beautifully, and the tortillas soften perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a lifestyle choice. It represents my commitment to providing healthy, delicious food for my family without sacrificing my precious time. It's a testament to the fact that smart cooking can save time and energy, and still deliver on flavor and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!
