Enchilada Casserole
Try this Enchilada Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Enchilada Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 pound ground beef
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 10 ounces enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- cilantro for garnish
- 1/4 cup light sour cream
- 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese divided
- 5 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels thawed (canned corn works just fine, but drain it first)
- 4 oz. diced green chiles
- 16 ounces extra wide egg noodles (i use creamette
- Carbohydrate 10.758136782744 g
- Cholesterol 120.581864777761 mg
- Fat 33.9667596339792 g
- Fiber 1.33954690592219 g
- Protein 27.7216644655273 g
- Saturated Fat 18.0789310475964 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (296g)
- Sodium 794.272505945801 mg
- Sugar 9.41858987682178 g
- Trans Fat 3.54733409306396 g
- Calories 459 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the egg noodles. Cook according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, brown the ground beef and drain the fat.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, and cream cheese to the ground beef and stir. Cook over low heat until cheese has melted.
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, enchilada sauce, half of each cheese, corn, and chiles.
- Pour the ground beef mixture into the sour cream mixture and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour into a casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Sprinkle the top with chopped cilantro.
My Favorite Weeknight Enchilada Casserole
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can often feel like a Herculean task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen often leaves me feeling overwhelmed. But I refuse to let my hectic schedule compromise on family dinners. That's why I rely on quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful recipes like this Enchilada Casserole.
This recipe is my go-to for those busy weeknights when I need a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal on the table in a flash. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It uses readily available ingredients, and the assembly process is incredibly straightforward. Even my kids, who are usually picky eaters, gobble this up!
The magic of one-pan cooking: This casserole is a testament to the power of one-pan cooking. Everything comes together in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. The layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, corn, and zesty enchilada sauce create a symphony of textures and tastes. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, with a comforting warmth that perfectly suits any evening.
I love how versatile this recipe is. I can easily adjust the spice level to suit my family's preferences. Sometimes, I add a touch of extra chili powder for a spicier kick, while other times, I keep it milder for the little ones. Similarly, the choice of cheese is entirely up to you. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are my staples, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Beyond the weeknight: This Enchilada Casserole isn’t just limited to weeknights; it's also a perfect dish for potlucks, casual gatherings, or even a cozy weekend dinner. The recipe is easily scalable, making it ideal for larger crowds. Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests you’re expecting. I've served this casserole at numerous gatherings, and it always disappears quickly, earning me plenty of compliments. The leftovers are equally delicious, making it a perfect make-ahead option for a busy week ahead.
A taste of home: For me, this Enchilada Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a comforting reminder of simpler times. The aroma of simmering spices and melting cheese fills my kitchen, evoking feelings of warmth, love, and togetherness. It’s a dish that brings my family together, a shared culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. It's the kind of food that creates memories, and that's what truly matters.
Tips and tricks for Enchilada Casserole Perfection:
- Don't overcook the noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles will hold their shape better in the casserole.
- Use good quality enchilada sauce: The flavor of the sauce is key to the overall taste of the casserole.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro adds a bright and vibrant finishing touch.
So, the next time you’re short on time but craving a delicious and satisfying meal, reach for this Enchilada Casserole recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a comforting classic, and a testament to the magic of simple, flavorful cooking. Trust me; your family will thank you for it!
