Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tortillas, cheese, and enchilada sauce for a delicious and hearty meal. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (at least 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles
- 1 can (10 oz) Old El Paso™ enchilada sauce
- 10 corn tortillas (6 inch)
- 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (12 oz)
- Paprika
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and finely chopped garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Soup and Chiles: Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and the chopped green chiles. Mix until well combined. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchilada Layers
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or lightly grease it.
- Layer Tortillas and Beef Mixture: Place 2-3 corn tortillas on the bottom of the slow cooker, overlapping as necessary. Spoon about 1/3 of the beef mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly.
- Add Enchilada Sauce and Cheese: Drizzle about 1/3 of the enchilada sauce over the beef mixture and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the final layer of tortillas, beef mixture, enchilada sauce, and the remaining shredded cheese.
Step 3: Cook the Enchilada Dinner
- Cover and Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the top with a dash of paprika and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve the Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner hot, straight from the slow cooker. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked and drained of excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Layering: Make sure to spread each layer evenly to ensure consistent flavor and texture throughout the dish.
Variations
- Spicy Enchiladas: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the layers in the slow cooker ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover enchilada casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner?
A: This casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.
Q5: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer, but corn tortillas are more traditional for enchiladas and hold up better during slow cooking.
Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, tortillas, cheese, and enchilada sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying casserole that everyone will love. Serve this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty meal!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting family meal, or a fun dish to share with friends, this Slow-Cooker Layered Enchilada Dinner is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.