Stacked Enchiladas - Rebbit Care

“Stacked Enchiladas” (also known as Enchiladas Montadas or New Mexico-Style Stacked Enchiladas) are a delicious, less fussy version of rolled enchiladas. They’re built in layers like lasagna, making them easier to assemble and incredibly hearty.

Here’s a classic recipe with a modern touch.

Table of Contents

🌵 Stacked Enchiladas (Enchiladas Montadas)

A hearty, layered casserole with tender tortillas, savory fillings, and melted cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd!

Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 30 mins | Serves: 6

📝 Ingredients

For the Sauce:

3 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade*)
Homemade Quick Sauce:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 2 tbsp flour
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste

For the Filling & Layers:

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
1 small onion, diced

1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
12-15 corn tortillas
3 cups shredded cheese (a blend of cheddar & Monterey Jack is perfect)

Optional Toppings:
- Diced onion
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Sliced black olives
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced radishes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion; cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside.

2. Warm the Tortillas:

This is a CRUCIAL step to prevent tearing!
Lightly fry each corn tortilla in hot oil for 10-15 seconds per side just to soften. Alternatively, you can warm them on a griddle or wrap them in a damp towel and microwave for 1 minute.

3. Assemble the Stacks:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Layer 1: Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layer 2: Place a single layer of tortillas (about 4-5), overlapping slightly.
Layer 3: Spread half of the meat mixture evenly over the tortillas.

Layer 4: Drizzle with one-third of the sauce and sprinkle with one-third of the cheese.
Repeat: Add another layer of tortillas, the remaining meat, another third of the sauce, and another third of the cheese.
Final Layer: Top with a final layer of tortillas. Pour the remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with the last of the cheese.

4. Bake:

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.

5. Serve:

Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set.
Serve each square topped with your favorite garnishes like diced onion, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

Vegetarian Version: Use black beans, pinto beans, or sautéed veggies (bell peppers, corn, zucchini) instead of meat.
Green Version (Suizas): Use shredded chicken and swap the red sauce for a creamy salsa verde mixed with a little sour cream or Mexican crema.
The Tortilla Secret: Never skip softening the tortillas! If you don’t, they will crack and become tough in the oven.

Make Ahead: Assemble the entire dish a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.

This is the ultimate comfort food for a family dinner or game day feast. Enjoy