Layered Enchilada Pie

Layered Enchilada Pie Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Layered Enchilada Pie is a delicious and comforting Mexican-inspired dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This dish is made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, corn, olives, and cheese, all baked together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Enchiladas have been a popular dish in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with the first known references to them dating back to the Mayan civilization. The traditional method of making enchiladas involves rolling a tortilla around a filling and then covering it with a chili sauce. The layered enchilada pie is a modern twist on this classic dish, making it easier to prepare and serve for a crowd.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of lean ground beef
1 large white onion
1 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
2 small cans of tomato sauce
1 tsp of chili powder
2.5 oz (71 g) of chopped sliced olives
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
6 tortillas, cut into strips
1 cup of grated sharp cheese
2 tbsp of chopped green bell pepper
2 tbsp of chopped white onion
0.67 cup of water
1 cup of whole kernel corn

How to prepare

Brown the beef and then drain it well.
Add the chopped onion, seasonings, and tomato sauce, then simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the olives, corn, and cumin.
In a casserole dish, place a small amount of meat and tomato sauce.
Add a layer of tortilla strips and a layer of meat sauce, then repeat the layers.
Add water to the top of the last layer.
Cover and bake at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes.
Remove from the oven and add grated cheese, onions, and green pepper to the top.
Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of the dish.
Add diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or black beans to the meat sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Use flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference.
Top the dish with sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or green onions for a colorful presentation.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the ground beef well after browning to remove excess fat.

- Season the meat sauce well with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for a flavorful filling.

- Layer the tortilla strips and meat sauce evenly to ensure that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Layered enchilada pie can be served with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef adds flavor to the dish and helps to remove excess fat.

- Simmering the meat sauce allows the flavors to develop and meld together.

- Layering the tortilla strips and meat sauce evenly ensures a well-balanced dish.

- Baking the dish covered helps to cook the tortillas and meat sauce, while baking uncovered melts the cheese and adds a crispy texture to the top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey, chicken, or pork.

- Sharp cheese can be replaced with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

- Green bell pepper can be swapped with red bell pepper or poblano pepper for a different flavor profile.

- Canned corn can be substituted with frozen corn or fresh corn kernels.

Make Ahead Tips

Layered enchilada pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and bake when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the layered enchilada pie directly from the casserole dish for a rustic and homey presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, avocado slices, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Layered enchilada pie pairs well with a variety of beverages, including Mexican beer, margaritas, or a refreshing glass of horchata. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with agua fresca or hibiscus tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover layered enchilada pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese and herbs before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of layered enchilada pie contains approximately 350 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of layered enchilada pie contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the tortillas and corn used in the dish.

Fats

Each serving of layered enchilada pie contains approximately 15 grams of fat. The fat content mainly comes from the ground beef and cheese used in the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of layered enchilada pie contains approximately 25 grams of protein. The protein in this dish comes from the lean ground beef and cheese.

Vitamins and minerals

Layered enchilada pie is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These essential vitamins and minerals come from the tomato sauce, corn, olives, and cheese used in the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (tortillas). It may also contain traces of soy (from the ground beef) and olives. Please check for allergens before consuming.

Summary

Layered enchilada pie is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet in moderation.

Summary

Layered enchilada pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Enjoy this flavorful and comforting meal with your loved ones!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a colorful and appetizing dish called Layered Enchilada Pie. The recipe was passed down to me by my dear friend, Maria, who learned it from her grandmother back in Mexico many years ago.

I remember the day Maria invited me over to her house to learn how to make this delicious dish. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the aroma of spices and herbs that instantly made my mouth water. Maria had all the ingredients laid out on the counter, ready for us to begin.

She started by showing me how to make the enchilada sauce from scratch. She explained that the key to a good enchilada pie is in the sauce – it has to be flavorful and rich. We roasted tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers on the stove until they were soft and charred. Then, we blended them together with a mixture of spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano to create a thick and tangy sauce.

Next, Maria taught me how to prepare the filling for the pie. We cooked ground beef with onions, bell peppers, and corn until it was browned and fragrant. Then, we added black beans, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Mexican cheese to give it an extra kick of flavor.

As we assembled the pie, Maria showed me how to layer the tortillas, sauce, filling, and cheese in a baking dish. She explained that the key to a good enchilada pie is to make sure each layer is evenly distributed so that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Once the pie was assembled, we popped it into the oven and waited for it to bake to golden perfection. The smell of melting cheese and bubbling sauce filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Finally, the pie was ready. Maria carefully removed it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. The layers of tortillas, sauce, and filling melded together perfectly, creating a savory and satisfying dish that was as beautiful to look at as it was delicious to eat.

We sat down at the table and dug into our creation, savoring each bite with delight. The flavors of the enchilada pie danced on my taste buds, taking me on a culinary journey through Mexico with every mouthful.

As I finished my last bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. The Layered Enchilada Pie was not just a dish – it was a piece of history, a taste of tradition, and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together.

And so, with Maria's guidance and inspiration, I added this recipe to my collection of culinary treasures, knowing that it would be passed down through generations to come. The Layered Enchilada Pie was more than just a recipe – it was a story, a memory, and a legacy that would live on in my family for years to come.