Lazy Enchiladas

Let’s talk about a dinner game-changer—Lazy Enchiladas. These are the kind of enchiladas that don’t require rolling, stuffing, or all the extra effort you typically associate with the dish. Instead, we’re layering everything together in the most delicious, low-maintenance way possible. Trust me, once you’ve had these, there’s no going back. You’ll be amazed at how all the traditional flavors of enchiladas—cheese, beans, savory sauce, and spicy kick—come together in the simplest way.

Picture this: gooey cheese, zesty enchilada sauce, and crispy tortillas—all baked to perfection with minimal prep. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a busy weeknight, or even a casual gathering, Lazy Enchiladas are a breeze to make and a total crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love Lazy Enchiladas

This recipe isn’t just about getting dinner on the table—it’s about making life easier and tastier. Let me tell you why Lazy Enchiladas will quickly become a regular in your kitchen:

• Versatile: Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something comforting and flavorful. Lazy Enchiladas work for a casual dinner or a laid-back party. Your guests will be so impressed, they might think you spent hours in the kitchen (but don’t worry, it’ll be our little secret!).
• Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish amazing. It’s a recipe that uses pantry staples, so you can whip it up without breaking the bank.
• Quick and Easy: Skip the rolling and layering, and just throw everything together. This one’s for you if you’re the type who loves delicious meals but doesn’t want to spend all evening cooking.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the flavors! Want to kick up the spice? Add extra chili powder or some diced jalapeños. Prefer it mild? Skip the heat. The possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a cheesy, saucy, comforting dish. Whether it’s kids or adults, Lazy Enchiladas hit all the right notes. You’re definitely going to want to make enough for seconds!

Ingredients

Here’s the beauty of Lazy Enchiladas—everything you need is simple, easy, and flavorful. You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen, so let’s break it down:

Corn Tortillas

The base of our dish! These tortillas crisp up beautifully in the oven, giving you that perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Enchilada Sauce

This is what ties the whole dish together. The deep, savory, and slightly spicy sauce is what enchiladas are all about, and it makes each bite irresistible.

Shredded Cheese

Cheese is a must. It melts into gooey perfection, bringing that creamy, cheesy goodness that enchiladas are famous for. I recommend a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the perfect melt.

Refried Beans

For extra creaminess and a subtle flavor boost. These beans layer in beautifully, making the dish even more satisfying.

Ground Beef or Chicken (Optional)

If you’re feeling like adding some protein, ground beef or chicken is the way to go. But don’t worry, the dish is just as delicious without it!

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into these easy steps to make Lazy Enchiladas:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make sure it’s hot and ready to bake your delicious dish. This step helps everything cook evenly and ensures your enchiladas turn out golden brown and cheesy.

Layer the Dish

In a baking dish, layer the ingredients in this order: Start with a small amount of enchilada sauce at the bottom. Then add a layer of tortillas, followed by a generous spoonful of refried beans, meat (if using), and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a good amount of cheese on top. Don’t forget to drizzle extra sauce over the top for that saucy goodness!

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. You want that cheesy, crispy topping that makes everyone’s mouth water.

Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve it warm and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness!

How to Serve Lazy Enchiladas

This dish is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better when paired with some delicious sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp, cool salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the enchiladas. Think romaine, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Guacamole and Chips: For that extra pop of flavor, serve it with some guacamole and tortilla chips for dipping.
• Mexican Rice: You can’t go wrong with a side of fluffy, seasoned Mexican rice to soak up the enchilada sauce.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool contrast to the warmth and spice of the enchiladas.

Additional Tips

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing a mild or spicy enchilada sauce. You can also add some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce on top if you want more kick.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra beans and veggies for a hearty, vegetarian version of this dish.
• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the layers ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great make-ahead option!
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A1: Absolutely! Flour tortillas will work just as well; they won’t crisp up quite as much as corn tortillas, but they’ll still taste great.

Q2: Can I freeze Lazy Enchiladas?
A2: Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, just bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time.

Q3: Can I use store-bought refried beans?
A3: Definitely! Store-bought refried beans save time and still taste delicious.

Q4: Can I make Lazy Enchiladas in a slow cooker?
A4: Yes, you can! Layer everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours or until bubbly.

Q5: What if I don’t have enough enchilada sauce?
A5: You can make a quick substitute by mixing tomato sauce with a little chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a simple enchilada sauce.

Q6: Can I use different types of cheese?
A6: Absolutely! You can use any cheese that melts well, like pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a Mexican blend.

Q7: What if I don’t have a baking dish?
A7: No problem! You can use any oven-safe dish, like a casserole dish or even a cast-iron skillet.

Q8: How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
A8: Layering the tortillas and making sure the sauce isn’t too watery will help keep the tortillas from becoming soggy. Pre-baking the tortillas for a couple of minutes can also help.

Q9: Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?
A9: Yes! Homemade enchilada sauce adds a personal touch and can elevate the flavors. Try it if you have the time!

Q10: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A10: Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Lazy Enchiladas are the answer to those nights when you’re craving something comforting, cheesy, and just plain delicious—but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect meal for anyone who loves bold flavors with minimal effort. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and treat yourself to a plate of these lazy but oh-so-tasty enchiladas! You won’t regret it.

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