Easy Enchilada Bake: A Comforting Culinary Delight

Name: Easy Enchilada Bake: A Comforting Culinary Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

June 3, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something about a warm, cheesy enchilada bake that just feels like a hug from the inside! I love how this dish is not only simple to whip up, but it also delivers big on flavor. Picture this: after a long day, I come home to the comforting aroma of melted cheese and savory chicken wafting through my kitchen. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, and my family absolutely devours it! Plus, it’s so versatile—you can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Trust me, once you try this easy enchilada bake, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!

easy enchilada bake - detail 1

Ingredients List

8 corn tortillas – these will be the foundation of your delicious layers.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken – use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut!
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce – this adds that rich, savory flavor we all love.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp and melty, it’s a classic choice.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – creamy and mild, this cheese blends beautifully.
1/2 cup chopped onion – for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper – I love using a mix of colors for a pop of visual appeal!
1 tablespoon olive oil – just a bit to sauté those veggies to perfection.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a lovely depth of flavor without the fuss.
1 teaspoon cumin – for that warm, earthy note that complements the enchiladas.
Salt to taste – always adjust based on your preference!
Fresh cilantro for garnish – it brightens up the dish and adds a fresh kick!

How to Prepare Instructions

Making this easy enchilada bake is a breeze! Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a skillet and pour in the olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step adds such a great flavor to the dish!

Prepping the Vegetables

For the onions, I like to slice them thinly; it helps them cook evenly and blend beautifully into the bake. As for the bell pepper, I usually remove the seeds and core, then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. You can use whatever color you love—red, yellow, or green all work wonderfully!

Assembling the Dish

Now, let’s get to the fun part: assembly! Start by spreading a thin layer of the red enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Then, layer 4 corn tortillas over the sauce—don’t worry about them overlapping a bit! Next, add half of the sautéed chicken mixture, followed by half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheeses. Finally, pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the top, making sure to cover all those cheesy layers.

Baking and Serving

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is all bubbly and golden. Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving—this helps everything hold together nicely. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and voilà! You’ve got a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This easy enchilada bake comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: With layers of tender chicken, savory enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out proteins or add vegetables based on what you have on hand, so it’s always a little different!
Comfort Food: The warm, cheesy layers create a cozy dish that everyone will love, turning any dinner into a special occasion.
Great for Leftovers: This bake reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day without losing any flavor or texture.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheesy dishes, and this recipe is a surefire way to get them excited about dinner!
Easy to Serve: Just cut into squares and serve straight from the baking dish—no fuss, no mess!

Tips for Success

To make sure your easy enchilada bake turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I swear by!

Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to pile on the ingredients, but be cautious. Overfilling can lead to an overflow situation in the oven. Stick to the suggested layers for the best results.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and bell peppers make a noticeable difference in flavor. If you can, skip the pre-chopped veggies and do it yourself—it’s worth it!
Adjust Spice Levels: If you like a little kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or topping the bake with some spicy salsa before serving. Adjust the seasoning to your taste!
Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve without everything falling apart.
Cover with Foil: If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning while ensuring the bake is cooked through.
Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Try pepper jack for some heat, or even a sprinkle of queso fresco on top for a delightful twist.
Use Quality Tortillas: Opt for high-quality corn tortillas; they hold up better during baking and add to the overall flavor. If they seem stiff, warm them briefly in the microwave to make them more pliable.

Variations

One of the best things about this easy enchilada bake is how customizable it is! Here are a few delicious variations to inspire your creativity:

Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, try using shredded beef, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish!
Vegetable Boost: Add some sautéed zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition and texture. You can even throw in some corn or black olives for added flavor.
Cheese Changes: Mix it up with different cheese blends! For a spicier twist, try pepper jack cheese, or if you’re feeling adventurous, crumbled feta or queso fresco can add a delightful tang.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the enchilada sauce. You can also top the bake with some spicy salsa before serving!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can add a pop of flavor. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for a fresh finish.
Different Sauces: While red enchilada sauce is a classic, why not try green enchilada sauce or even a creamy white sauce for a completely different flavor profile?
Breakfast Enchilada Bake: Transform this dish into a breakfast delight by mixing in scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage or bacon. It’s a fun way to start the day!

Feel free to mix and match these variations based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge. The possibilities are endless, and every time you make it, you can create something new and exciting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your easy enchilada bake properly will ensure you can enjoy those delicious leftovers without compromising flavor or texture! First, let the dish cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from making the tortillas soggy.

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container—glass or plastic works great! You can also cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap if you prefer to keep it all in one place. Stored this way, it’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchilada bake in an oven-safe dish if it’s not already, and cover it with foil to retain moisture while reheating. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melty. If you like a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

If you want to store the enchilada bake for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then follow the reheating instructions above. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite all over again!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for this easy enchilada bake, keeping in mind these are estimates based on the ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to check the specific brands you use for precise numbers!

Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

This dish is a great source of protein and a satisfying option for a hearty meal. Plus, with the right ingredients, you can easily tweak the nutritional content to fit your dietary needs. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious enchilada bake!

FAQ Section

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they might not hold up as well as corn tortillas during baking, but they’ll still be delicious!

What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?
No problem! You can quickly cook some chicken breasts in a skillet or even use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for a major time saver. Alternatively, shredded beef or black beans work great too!

How do I know when the enchilada bake is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The edges might be a little crispy, which is perfect!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the enchilada bake, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it in the oven cold.

What toppings do you recommend for serving?
I love serving it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick! Guacamole or a side of Mexican rice also pairs beautifully.

Can I freeze the enchilada bake?
Yes! Just make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I adjust the spice level?
To spice things up, add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or use spicy enchilada sauce. If you want to tone it down, opt for mild cheese and sauces.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free corn tortillas and check your enchilada sauce for gluten-free labeling, this dish can be a great gluten-free option!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.