Sizzling Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Crafting a mouthwatering vegetarian enchilada casserole might sound like a culinary adventure waiting to unfold.

Layers of vibrant vegetables and melted cheese create a comforting masterpiece that satisfies even the most dedicated meat lovers.

Spices dance through each bite, promising a delightful explosion of Mexican-inspired flavors.

Beans and corn nestle between soft tortillas, building a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary with this simple yet impressive dish that comes together quickly.

Colorful ingredients promise a feast for both eyes and taste buds.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Storage Ideas

• Store leftover enchilada casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F covered with foil for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.
• Cut individual portions and microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Companions

• Pair with Zesty Margaritas: Blend tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec for a tangy cocktail that complements the enchilada casserole's spicy Mexican flavors.
• Serve with Fresh Pico de Gallo: Chop ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a bright, crisp salsa that adds refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole.
• Complement with Mexican Street Corn Salad: Grill corn kernels, mix with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a creamy, smoky side dish that enhances the meal's southwestern profile.
• Add Crisp Cucumber Agua Fresca: Blend cucumber, water, lime juice, and a touch of honey for a cool, light drink that balances the casserole's robust spices and provides a hydrating accompaniment.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Flavor Paths

• Gluten-Free Enchilada Casserole: Replace wheat tortillas with corn tortillas or gluten-free tortilla alternatives. Use certified gluten-free enchilada sauce to ensure complete dietary compliance.
• Vegan Power Casserole: Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based shredded cheese like cashew or almond cheese. Add nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor and protein boost.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Version: Replace tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini layers. Use cauliflower rice instead of corn to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining delicious flavor profile.
• Protein-Packed Enchilada Casserole: Incorporate quinoa or plant-based protein crumbles into vegetable mixture. Add extra black beans or lentils for increased protein content and nutritional value.

FAQs

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is certified gluten-free.

• What if I want to add more protein?

You can incorporate tofu, quinoa, or add extra beans like pinto or kidney beans to increase the protein content of the casserole.

• How spicy is this enchilada casserole?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or include some diced jalapeños during cooking.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from the refrigerator.

Reasons You’ll Repeat Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe

• Savor Quick Family Comfort: A one-pan vegetarian casserole that transforms weeknight dinners into delightful meals.
• Customize with Ease: Mix and match vegetables, beans, or cheese to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences without complex preparation.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Affordable ingredients like beans, tortillas, and frozen vegetables create a satisfying meal that feeds multiple people without breaking the bank.
• Nutrition Packed Powerhouse: Combines protein-rich black beans, fiber-loaded vegetables, and calcium from cheese, delivering a balanced and wholesome dinner option in under 45 minutes.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Parts

• Corn Tortillas: Soft corn base for layering the casserole, providing traditional Mexican texture.
• Black Beans, Corn: Hearty protein and sweet vegetable components, adding substance and nutrition.

• Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic: Fresh vegetables for depth of flavor, creating aromatic base for the dish.

• Enchilada Sauce, Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Tangy and spicy liquid base that adds moisture and zest.
• Ground Cumin, Chili Powder: Essential Mexican spices for authentic flavor profile, providing warmth and complexity.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings for balanced taste enhancement.

• Cheddar or Mexican Blend Cheese: Creamy topping that melts beautifully, adding richness.
• Olive Oil: Cooking fat for sautéing vegetables, providing smooth cooking surface.

• Sour Cream, Chopped Cilantro, Avocado, Salsa: Fresh garnishes that add extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Cooking Process

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F, getting ready for a flavor explosion.

Step 2: Sizzle the Veggie Base

• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Chopped bell pepper

Sauté until the veggies become tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create a Spicy Vegetable Medley

• Black beans
• Corn kernels
• Diced tomatoes with chilies
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Let the ingredients mingle and get cozy for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Prep the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a silky layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom.

Step 5: Build the First Layer

Arrange 4 tortillas over the sauce, creating a delicious foundation.

Spread half the vegetable mixture and sprinkle a generous handful of cheese.

Step 6: Create the Second Layer

Top with another 4 tortillas, remaining vegetable mixture, and another handful of cheese.

Step 7: Sauce It Up

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly across the top, ensuring every inch gets some love.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Let the casserole cool briefly.

• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced avocado

Essential Know-How For Flavorful Vegetarian Enchiladas

• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or whole wheat tortillas for added fiber and nutrition.
• Add quinoa or crumbled tofu to the vegetable mixture to increase protein content for a more filling meal.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin to control heat intensity, or add jalapeños for extra kick.
• Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for a convenient meal prep option.
• This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months – wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Spicy Mexican “Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole” brings layers of delicious comfort to your dinner table. Creamy beans, roasted vegetables, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) corn, drained

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauces and Cooking Ingredients:

• 1 can (10 ounces / 285 grams) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 ounces / 285 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Chopped cilantro
• Avocado
• Salsa

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Instructions

1. Prepare the culinary workspace by warming the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating an ideal environment for baking.
2. In a spacious skillet, warm olive oil and gently sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until they become translucent and aromatic, releasing their vibrant flavors.
3. Introduce black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, and seasonings like cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet, allowing the ingredients to meld and create a robust vegetable mixture.
4. Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with a thin, even layer of enchilada sauce, establishing a flavorful foundation for the casserole.
5. Carefully arrange the first layer of tortillas directly on the sauce, ensuring complete coverage of the dish’s bottom surface.
6. Distribute half of the vegetable mixture across the tortillas, creating a hearty base, and sprinkle a generous portion of cheese to enhance texture and taste.
7. Position the second layer of tortillas atop the initial vegetable layer, then crown with the remaining vegetable mixture and another lavish layer of cheese.
8. Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce uniformly across the casserole, ensuring complete coverage and moisture.
9. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and heat thoroughly.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
11. Allow the casserole to rest briefly, permitting the ingredients to settle and flavors to intensify before serving.
12. Garnish with optional toppings like fresh cilantro, creamy sour cream, or sliced avocado to elevate the culinary experience.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder and selecting mild or spicy enchilada sauce for different taste preferences.
• Swap corn tortillas with gluten-free alternatives or whole wheat tortillas to accommodate dietary restrictions and add nutritional variety.
• Boost protein content by incorporating quinoa or adding plant-based protein crumbles alongside black beans for a more substantial vegetarian meal.
• Prepare casserole ahead of time by assembling layers and refrigerating overnight, then baking when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg