Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (make sure it’s halal-certified)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional, for added spice)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 pack (8-10) flour tortillas (ensure they’re halal-certified)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground Meat: Ground beef is the most commonly used, but you can opt for halal ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives to make the dish lighter or vegetarian.
- Enchilada Sauce: A key element in the flavor profile of this dish, the enchilada sauce provides a rich, tangy base that’s essential to the overall taste.
- Cheese: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates the perfect balance of flavor and gooey texture that’s so satisfying in each bite.
- Tortillas: Instead of traditional lasagna noodles, flour tortillas are used to create the lasagna’s layers, bringing a soft and slightly chewy texture to the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture for Enchilada Lasagna
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Seasonings: Once the meat is cooked, add the diced onion and cook for another 3 minutes until softened. Then, add the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the meat mixture with the spices.
- Incorporate Enchilada Sauce: Pour in the red enchilada sauce and diced green chilies (if using). Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchilada Lasagna
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Layer the Tortillas: Place a layer of tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping if necessary. You may need to cut some tortillas to fit the pan.
- Add the Meat Sauce: Spoon a portion of the meat mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the meat sauce.
- Repeat the Layers: Continue layering tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese until you run out of ingredients. Make sure to finish with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 3: Bake the Enchilada Lasagna
- Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Uncover and Bake: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the lasagna is golden brown on top.
- Cool: Allow the lasagna to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into neat squares.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the Enchilada Lasagna hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g