Enchilada Pie is a hearty and delectable dish that marries the bold flavors of traditional enchiladas with the layered structure of a pie. This fusion makes it a standout for those who adore Mexican cuisine and yearn for a hearty, satisfying meal. Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking, Enchilada Pie has risen to prominence as a beloved comfort food worldwide.
To enhance your Enchilada Pie experience, consider serving it with classic Mexican sides such as a fresh tomato and avocado salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette, or accompany it with Mexican rice and refried beans for a truly indulgent meal. These additions not only enrich the flavors but also round out the dish into a fulfilling feast.
Enchilada Pie Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 16 ounces Monterey Jack cheese with peppers, shredded
- 16 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 can (about 10 ounces) of enchilada sauce
- 8 ounces small curd cottage cheese
- 1 can (about 4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained
- 12 fresh corn tortillas
- Oil for frying tortillas
- Seasonings: salt, pepper, cumin, and garlic powder, to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped tomatoes, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, ground pork, and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the meat is thoroughly browned. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and garlic powder. Drain any excess grease.
Heat oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each corn tortilla briefly, about 10 seconds per side, until just softened. Drain on paper towels.
In a bowl, combine the shredded cheeses, reserving a quarter of the mixture for topping. Stir in the sour cream and cottage cheese until well mixed.
In a large baking dish, layer some enchilada sauce, a layer of fried tortillas, a layer of the meat mixture, and a layer of the cheese mixture.
Continue layering with more tortillas, enchilada sauce, and the remaining cheese mixture.
Finish with a layer of tortillas topped with the remaining enchilada sauce, reserved cheese, and black olives. Add optional green onions or cilantro if using.
Bake for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
If using, sprinkle with chopped tomatoes before serving.
This Enchilada Pie, with its rich layers of meat, creamy cheeses, and soft tortillas, makes a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more festive occasion, it promises to deliver comfort and joy with each bite. Enjoy the complex textures and robust flavors that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.