If you love the hearty comfort of a classic lasagna but crave bold Mexican flavors, then you are absolutely going to adore this Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe. This dish layers tender corn tortillas with rich enchilada sauce, savory seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese to create a vibrant casserole that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a family-pleaser that’s easy to prepare but feels like a feast on a plate, perfect for sharing and savoring any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not only for flavor but to build a harmonious balance of textures and colors that make the dish visually inviting and delicious from the first bite to the last.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty and savory base, perfectly seasoned to infuse the layers with meaty richness.
- 1 can enchilada sauce: The tangy, spicy sauce ties every layer together with a punch of traditional Mexican flavor.
- 6 corn tortillas: Offers an authentic texture and gluten-free option that softens beautifully when baked.
- 1 cup refried beans: Adds creaminess and depth, balancing the meat and sauce with a velvety finish.
- 1 cup cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, lending sharpness and richness to the casserole.
- 1 tsp cumin & chili powder: Essential spices that bring warmth and smoky heat, elevating the beef mixture.
How to Make Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 375 °F – this will ensure it’s ready to generate that bubbling, cheesy magic at the end. While it heats, brown the ground beef in a skillet, mixing in cumin and chili powder to infuse the meat with a fragrant, spicy kick. Cooking the beef first builds the foundational flavor layer that every bite rests upon.
Step 2: Build the Layers
Grab your baking dish and begin assembling the Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe by spooning a generous layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Then add a layer of corn tortillas, followed by the seasoned ground beef, and spread dollops of refried beans evenly over the beef. This layering not only adds taste but ensures every forkful hits the perfect combination of textures and flavors.
Step 3: Repeat and Top
Repeat these layers one more time, maintaining even distribution to make sure no ingredient dominates. Finish by pouring more enchilada sauce on top and sprinkling the entire casserole with the shredded cheese. This final cheese layer will melt beautifully into a golden, bubbling blanket that seals in all the layers beneath.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. This baking time allows the flavors to marry while the cheese melts into a luscious, melty topping. When you see bubbling sauce around the edges and a slightly crisp, golden top, your Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe is ready to come out.
How to Serve Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten and freshen every bite, top your warm casserole with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, a few dollops of cool sour cream, or even sliced jalapeños for extra kick. These garnishes contrast wonderfully with the rich layers and add a delightful visual and flavor pop.
Side Dishes
This baked masterpiece pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or Mexican street corn (elote) for an easy complete meal. Rice and beans can also echo the dish’s Mexican flavors and round out the feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions stacked on plates to mimic the layered look, or scoop into bowls topped with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist. You can also turn leftovers into enchilada-inspired tacos or quesadillas for an inventive second meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more after a day, so it’s excellent for making ahead and enjoying later.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for a longer time, freeze the casserole in a suitable container. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. Frozen Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe portions will last about 2 to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 °F until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave single servings but keep a close eye to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Substituting ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken makes a delicious variation that’s lighter but just as flavorful.
Are corn tortillas necessary?
Corn tortillas give this dish its classic texture and are naturally gluten-free, but if you prefer, you can use flour tortillas for a softer, chewier bite.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder and enchilada sauce; adjust the heat with more chili or jalapeños if you prefer things hotter.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the beef for additional beans, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or a meat substitute to keep the rich, layered experience vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar or Monterey Jack provide nice meltiness and sharpness, but feel free to experiment with queso fresco or a blend of Mexican cheeses for authentic flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort foods because it brings together bold, familiar flavors in a new and incredibly satisfying format. It’s approachable to make, a hit for any dinner crowd, and endlessly adaptable. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and make it a delicious tradition in your own home!
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Stacked Enchiladas (Mexican Lasagna) Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Stacked Enchiladas are a delicious Mexican-inspired casserole featuring layers of corn tortillas, rich enchilada sauce, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, this dish combines the flavors of traditional enchiladas with the comforting, layered style of a lasagna, making it a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
Sauce and Tortillas
- 1 can (about 10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 6 corn tortillas
Fillings and Toppings
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) to prepare for baking the enchilada casserole.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the cumin and chili powder, stirring well to evenly coat the meat and develop a rich, seasoned flavor. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Assemble the Layers: In a baking dish, start with a layer of enchilada sauce spread on the bottom. Layer 2–3 corn tortillas over the sauce. Spread half of the cooked beef evenly over the tortillas, followed by half of the refried beans. Repeat with another layer of tortillas, remaining beef, and beans. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly on top and finish by sprinkling the shredded cheese over everything.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and sour cream to add brightness and creaminess.
- Use cooked shredded chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner variation.
- Make sure to use corn tortillas if you want to keep this dish gluten-free.
- Refried beans add a creamy layer and help hold the casserole together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole / Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
