Description
This Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that combines the zest of enchilada sauce with layers of vegetables, black beans, corn, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. With a mix of fresh bell peppers, onions, and gooey cheddar, this casserole is comforting, nutritious, and sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- Corn tortillas
- Homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (or pepper jack for extra spice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (or pinto beans)
- 1 cup corn
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 each red, green, and yellow bell pepper, diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Enchilada Sauce: If using homemade, prepare the enchilada sauce ahead of time.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Combine Vegetables with Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans and corn, combining all ingredients, then remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9″x13″ baking dish. Layer corn tortillas over the sauce, followed by half of the vegetable mixture and 1/3 of the shredded cheese. Pour another 1/2 cup of sauce over the top and add a second layer of tortillas.
- Continue Layering: Top the second layer of tortillas with the remaining vegetable mixture, another 1/3 of cheese, and 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce. Add the final layer of tortillas and pour the remaining enchilada sauce over it. Top with the last of the shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Top with chopped cilantro and red onion for extra flavor and garnish.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to the sauce.
- You can make the casserole ahead of time by preparing it a day in advance and refrigerating it until ready to bake.
- To make it extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheese to the layers.