Best 3 Cheese Enchilada Casserole Recipes

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**Cheese Enchilada Casserole: A Flavorful Fusion of Mexican and American Cuisine**

Indulge in the tantalizing fusion of Mexican and American flavors with our delectable Cheese Enchilada Casserole. This hearty dish combines the classic flavors of enchiladas with the convenience of a casserole, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With three variations to choose from, this recipe offers something for every taste preference, whether you prefer a traditional red sauce, a creamy green sauce, or a spicy and flavorful salsa. Each variation is packed with a blend of melted cheese, tender chicken, and a variety of fillings, ensuring a satisfying and unforgettable dining experience. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

MAKE AHEAD CHEESE ENCHILADA CASSEROLE



Make Ahead Cheese Enchilada Casserole image

This tasty casserole makes a quick dinner when made the night before and popped into the oven when you get home from work.

Provided by Denise in da Kitchen

Categories     Cheese

Time 1h

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 16

2 cups monterey jack cheese, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 ounces tomato sauce
2/3 cup water
1/3 cup green pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 garlic clove, minced
8 flour tortillas
1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Steps:

  • Mix Monterey jack cheese, cheddar cheese, onion, sour cream, parsley, salt and pepper; Set aside.
  • Combine tomato sauce, water, green pepper, chili powder, oregano, cumin and garlic and heat to boiling, stirring occasionally.
  • Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes; Pour into a 9-inch ungreased pie pan.
  • Dip each tortilla into sauce to coat both sides.
  • Spoon about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture onto each tortilla.
  • Roll tortilla around filling.
  • Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a 13 x 7 inch baking dish.
  • Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas.
  • Sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheddar cheese.
  • Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until hot and bubbling.
  • Garnish with sour cream and sliced black olives.
  • **NOTE: After sprinkling with cheese, you may cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours then bake uncovered in 350°F oven for 35 minutes.

CHEESE ENCHILADA CASSEROLE



Cheese Enchilada Casserole image

Make this Mexican standby suit your tastes: Use our cheese enchiladas as a base, then select a sauce and your choice of toppings for a fast dinner with fresh flavor every time.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Main Dish Recipes     Casserole Recipes

Time 20m

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 1/2 cups of one of the following enchilada sauces:
Tomato-Jalapeno Enchilada Sauce
Tomatillo Enchilada Sauce
Chile-Raisin Enchilada Sauce
8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded or crumbled cheese, such as Monterey Jack or queso fresco, or a combination
Diced onion, avocado, chopped cilantro, cheese, or sour cream (optional), for serving

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Pour 1 cup sauce into a wide, shallow bowl. Working with one at a time, dip tortillas in sauce, shaking off excess, then sprinkle 1/4 cup cheese down center. Roll tortilla around cheese and arrange, seam side down, in 8-inch square baking dish. Top with 1/2 cup sauce. Cover tightly with foil and bake until heated through, 10 minutes. Serve with desired toppings.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 324 g, Fat 19 g, Fiber 3 g, Protein 17 g

CHEESE AND BEAN ENCHILADA CASSEROLE



Cheese and Bean Enchilada Casserole image

This evolved from the 'zaar recipe recipe #58503 and is a family favorite. It comes together quickly, you don't have to fry the tortillas, and it tastes great. It also has less saturated fat than most enchilada recipes.

Provided by ranch-girl

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 50m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1/4 cup olive oil (or other oil, olive oil is healthy, esp. extra virgin)
1/4 cup flour
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
2 1/2 cups water
2 garlic cloves (minced or pressed)
1 onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon oregano
3 tablespoons powdered red chilies (I use mild, this is not the same as chili powder)
1 (30 ounce) can black beans (or pinto)
1 (16 ounce) carton low fat cottage cheese
6 -8 ounces monterey jack cheese, shredded
1 dozen corn tortilla
1/2 cup sliced black olives
light sour cream

Steps:

  • Combine the flour and oil in 2 quart saucepan and stir til smooth.
  • Mix the tomato paste with the water and gradually add to the flour/oil mixture stirring until smooth.
  • Add garlic, onion, salt, oregano, and red chile to the sauce.
  • Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  • While sauce is heating, grate the cheese and drain the can of beans.
  • When sauce has boiled and thickened a bit, remove from heat.
  • Put a thin layer of sauce, just enough to cover, in the bottom of a 9X12 baking pan. (I use a glass pan).
  • Put a layer of 6 tortillas on top of the sauce layer; they will overlap some.
  • Spread beans in an even layer on top of the tortilla layer.
  • Spread cottage cheese on top of bean layer.
  • Sprinkle approx 3/4 of the grated cheese over the cottage cheese.
  • Spread 1/2 of the remaining sauce over this.
  • Put a second layer of 6 tortillas on top.
  • Top with remaining sauce, the rest of the grated cheese, and the sliced olives.
  • Bake in 350 degree oven until hot and bubbly, 20 - 30 minutes.
  • Serve with sour cream if desired.

Tips:

  • Mise en Place: Before starting, measure and prep all ingredients. This will ensure smooth and efficient cooking.
  • Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheese, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful spices make a world of difference.
  • Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the ground beef, avoid overcrowding the pan. This will prevent the meat from cooking evenly and releasing its juices.
  • Simmer the Sauce: Take the time to simmer the enchilada sauce to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
  • Layer Wisely: When assembling the casserole, layer the ingredients evenly to ensure each bite has a balance of flavors and textures.
  • Use a Baking Dish with High Sides: The casserole will bubble up during baking, so use a baking dish with high sides to prevent spills.
  • Garnish Before Serving: Before serving, garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and additional shredded cheese for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Conclusion:

The Cheese Enchilada Casserole is a delectable and versatile dish that can be tailored to your preferences. With its combination of savory filling, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Experiment with different fillings, sauces, and toppings to create your own unique version of this classic recipe. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, the Cheese Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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