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Delicious Weeknight Cheesy Enchilada Bake. recipe photo

Weeknight Cheesy Enchilada Bake.

This Weeknight Cheesy Enchilada Bake is a family favorite! Layered tortillas with seasoned beef and melted cheese make for a quick and delicious meal.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • to taste Kosher salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups chicken stock
  • 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 12 pieces corn tortillas cut or torn into pieces
  • 1 can diced green chiles 7-ounce
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese freshly grated
  • Chopped tomatoes for topping
  • Sliced green onions for topping
  • Fresh cilantro for topping

Instructions

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, seasoning it with kosher salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, for about 6-8 minutes.
  • Once the beef is browned, sprinkle the flour over the meat and stir to coat. Cook for an additional minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In your oven-safe baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the torn corn tortillas over the sauce, followed by half of the remaining meat mixture, diced green chiles, frozen corn, and half of the Monterey Jack cheese.
  • Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese. Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped tomatoes, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Oven-Safe Baking Dish
  • Spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños to the layers.
  • This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or vegetables.
  • Make sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality.
  • Storing leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.