Description
This Slow Cooker Enchilada Casserole is a simple and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish perfect for a comforting family meal. Layers of seasoned ground meat, soft corn tortillas, and melted cheese slow-cooked to perfection create a hearty casserole. It’s easy to prepare ahead, and customizable with your choice of meat and toppings like sour cream, avocado, and fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Other
- 10-12 corn tortillas, cut into strips or halves
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Sliced avocado
- Jalapeño slices
- Lime wedges
- Salsa
Instructions
- Cook the Meat and Onions: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef (or chicken or turkey) and chopped onion, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Stir in enchilada sauce, diced green chilies if using, ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Prepare the Tortillas: Cut the corn tortillas into strips, halves, or tear them into rustic pieces to layer easily in the slow cooker.
- Layer the Casserole: In your slow cooker, start by spreading a small amount of the meat mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of tortilla pieces and then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Continue layering meat, tortillas, and cheese, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tortillas are soft and fully cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the casserole onto plates and top with sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings such as sliced avocado, jalapeño slices, lime wedges, and salsa for extra flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef to lighten this dish.
- Using corn tortillas keeps the dish gluten-free, but ensure your enchilada sauce is also gluten-free if necessary.
- Adjust the heat level by choosing mild or hot enchilada sauce and adding jalapeños accordingly.
- For a creamier texture, add a layer of enchilada sauce between the layers.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven.
