Lazy Enchiladas

These Lazy Enchiladas are the ultimate quick-and-easy comfort food! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe skips the fuss of rolling tortillas and instead layers everything casserole-style. Packed with savory meat, melty cheese, crispy tortilla chips, and zesty enchilada sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute shredded chicken or ground turkey)
• 2 cups crushed tortilla chips (about half a bag)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions, cilantro, or sliced jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Stir in the ground cumin and diced green chilies. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread a thin layer of red enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the sauce.
3. Sprinkle half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the chips.
4. Add half of the shredded cheese on top of the beef.
5. Repeat the layers: another layer of tortilla chips, the remaining beef mixture, and more cheese.
6. Pour the remaining red enchilada sauce over the top layer, spreading it evenly to cover the casserole.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden around the edges.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Top with salsa and any optional garnishes like sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions, or cilantro for extra flavor and flair.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve warm. Pair with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Tortilla Chips: Use plain or lightly salted tortilla chips for best results. Avoid heavily flavored chips like nacho cheese or BBQ.
• Protein Options: Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using hot salsa, adding diced jalapeños, or sprinkling a dash of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lazy Enchiladas are the perfect no-fuss meal that delivers all the flavors of traditional enchiladas without the hassle. The crispy tortilla chips soften slightly in the oven, absorbing the rich enchilada sauce and creating a satisfying texture contrast with the gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is sure to please. Dive into this cheesy, saucy delight and savor every bite!