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Lazy Enchiladas are the perfect solution when you want a comforting Mexican-inspired meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe layers frozen beef and cheese taquitos with flavorful enchilada sauce, mild diced green chilis, and a generous topping of melty Colby jack cheese. It comes together quickly in one baking dish and delivers a satisfying, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish everyone will love.
I remember making this one evening after a busy day and it felt like a fun cheat meal that still brought all the comfort of homemade enchiladas. Now it’s a go-to when time is tight but the craving for Mexican food is strong.
Ingredients
- Frozen beef and cheese taquitos: the star shortcut that keeps things easy and satisfying. Choose a quality brand with good flavor and texture
- Enchilada sauce: canned is convenient but make your own if you have a favorite recipe for a richer, fresher taste
- Mild diced green chilis: adds a subtle kick without overpowering, canned variety works well
- Colby jack cheese: shredded, melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the dish
- Fresh cilantro: chopped, for a bright herbaceous finish that lifts the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for even cooking. Lightly spray a 9 by 13 inch glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer the Taquitos:
- Place your frozen beef and cheese taquitos in a single even layer across the bottom of the baking dish. This provides a crispy base that will soak up all the saucy goodness baked on top.
- Add Sauce and Chilis:
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the taquitos so every bite will be flavorful. Scatter the mild diced green chilis over the sauce layer to add dimension and a gentle spice that balances the cheese and meat.
- Top with Cheese:
- Cover the entire dish generously with shredded Colby jack cheese. This melting layer will turn golden and bubbly in the oven, making the dish irresistibly gooey and tasty.
- Bake and Garnish:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top to brighten the flavors and add a fresh touch.
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I love the combination of quick frozen taquitos with fresh cilantro on top. It feels like an effortless way to bring friends together around a table with minimal fuss. One time I made it for a game night and everyone kept going back for more, no one could believe it was so simple.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to two days. The tortillas soften the longer it sits, so enjoy the next day reheated rather than trying to keep it longer. Reheat gently in the microwave or bake covered with foil at 350 degrees until warmed through to re-crisp the cheese.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken or veggie taquitos for a different protein or vegetarian version. Swap mild diced green chilis for roasted poblano peppers for a smokier flavor. Use pepper jack cheese instead of Colby jack for added heat if you like spicier dishes. If you prefer fresh sauce, a tomatillo-based green salsa can be used instead of enchilada sauce, though flavor will differ slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple side salad and tortilla chips to round out the meal. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole adds creamy contrast. Extra cilantro and sliced jalapenos on the side make it easy to customize each serving.
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Cultural Context
Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish traditionally made by rolling corn tortillas around fillings and smothering them in chili sauce. This Lazy Enchilada casserole is a comforting shortcut that captures the spirit of the original with less work, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It showcases how convenience foods can be adapted into something tasty without losing the essence of a beloved cuisine.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the frozen beef & cheese taquitos?
Yes, you can use homemade or store-bought taquitos with similar fillings. Adjust baking time slightly depending on size and thickness.
- → What cheese works best for melting on top?
Colby jack cheese melts well for a creamy, mild flavor, but Monterey Jack or cheddar are good alternatives.
- → Can I add beans to this casserole?
Yes, layering refried beans or black beans under the taquitos enhances texture and adds protein for a twist.
- → How long should the dish rest before serving?
Allow about 5 minutes after baking to let the casserole set, making it easier to serve and enhancing flavors.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through; this helps maintain the cheese’s melted texture.