Name: Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon oil; 1 medium red onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 14 ounces red beans, drained and rinsed (1 can); 1 cup sweet corn, drained; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (divided use); 6 corn or flour tortillas, cut into strips; 12 ounces chipotle enchilada sauce (or 10-ounce can enchilada sauce); 3/4 cup whole milk; 1 Tablespoon cornstarch; 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese; 10 ounces diced tomatoes and chilies, drained (optional); 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 62 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, flavorful dish that bursts with warm spices and vibrant textures, this Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with tender tortillas, a medley of sautéed vegetables, hearty beans, and rich, creamy cheese sauce, all brought together by a smoky chipotle enchilada sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a magnificent dish that’s oh-so-satisfying and packed with bold, authentic flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of fresh ingredients on a white marbled surface. In the center, there are clear glass bowls filled with bright yellow corn kernels, shredded white cheese, dark red kidney beans, and a smooth red sauce. Around these bowls, a whole red bell pepper and a green bell pepper rest near a bunch of fresh green cilantro. A small purple onion, a bulb of garlic, and a few green olives in a small glass bowl add more color. A container of red paprika powder is also visible, along with a soft white flour tortilla placed on the surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to whip up this Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from adding vibrant color and texture to delivering layers of irresistible flavor.

Oil: A tablespoon of oil to sauté vegetables, unlocking their natural flavors and aromas.
Red onion: Adds a mild sweetness and satisfying crunch when cooked just right.
Garlic: Gives a punch of pungent warmth that complements the spices beautifully.
Green bell pepper: Brings a refreshing crispness and a touch of bitterness that balances the dish.
Sweet red pepper: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness that brightens the casserole.
Chili powder: Infuses the dish with classic enchilada warmth and earthy heat.
Cumin: Lends a smoky depth that enhances every bite.
Smoked paprika: Boosts the smoky flavor, giving the casserole a complex, inviting aroma.
Red beans: Provides a hearty, protein-packed base to fill and satisfy.
Sweet corn: Offers bursts of natural sweetness and pleasant texture contrasts.
Salt and pepper: Essential to balance and highlight all the flavors perfectly.
Corn or flour tortillas: Cut into strips to create layered structure and soak up sauces beautifully.
Chipotle enchilada sauce: Adds rich smoky heat that ties the whole casserole together.
Queso or cheese sauce: A luscious, creamy element that makes this dish irresistibly cheesy.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts delightfully for gooey stretches of cheesy goodness.
Fresh cilantro: Finishes the dish with a bright herbaceous note.
Whole milk: Used in the cheese sauce to create a smooth, velvety texture.
Cornstarch: Thickens the cheese sauce to the perfect consistency.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharpness and richness to the cheese sauce.
Diced tomatoes and chilies (optional): Adds a tangy kick and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start off by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (or 200 degrees Celsius). Grease an 8×8 or 11×7 inch baking dish—this step ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier. Setting the stage right will help your dish come together smoothly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Grab a large non-stick skillet and warm up a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped red onion, minced garlic, green and sweet red bell peppers, along with cumin, chili powder, and a handful of fresh cilantro. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the veggies release their delicious aroma and begin to soften. This vegetable mixture is the heartbeat of the casserole, delivering vibrant texture and flavor.

Step 3: Add Beans and Corn

Next, stir in the drained red beans and sweet corn. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients provide substance and contrast; the beans add creaminess and protein while the corn injects sweetness and bite. Once combined, remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool slightly to prepare for layering.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

This cheesy layer is what makes the Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe truly decadent. In a saucepan, whisk together 3/4 cup whole milk and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth. Place over medium-high heat and stir constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle boil and thickens. Remove from heat and blend in 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If you want to add a little tang, fold in the drained diced tomatoes and chilies now.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Time for the fun part. Spread half of the chipotle enchilada sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Layer half of the tortilla strips on top, overlapping slightly to cover the surface. Add half of your vegetable and bean filling, then generously spoon the cheese sauce over the veggies. Repeat these layers one more time—tortillas, filling, chipotle sauce—and finish with a thick blanket of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top for melt-in-your-mouth gooeyness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. This baking step melds all those layers into one mouthwatering masterpiece.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into squares. This brief cooling period helps everything set so your servings hold together perfectly. Serve it up immediately with guacamole and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to brighten every bite. Now, dive in and enjoy the rich layers of flavor you just created!

How to Serve Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe

The dish is presented on a textured white plate, showing a layered mix of colorful ingredients. The bottom layer has a red sauce with visible pieces of bright yellow corn and green chopped herbs. On top of this, there is a layer filled with dark red kidney beans and chunks of melted white cheese, giving a slightly browned texture. Scattered green olives surround the main portion. The top is covered with a creamy light green sauce, garnished with small sprigs of green cilantro. The plate rests on a blue and white striped cloth on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes, while a dollop of creamy guacamole introduces a cool contrast to the spicy casserole. You might also add sliced green olives for a salty tang that complements the cheese sauce wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, try serving with Mexican rice or simple black beans for a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or build a platter for a communal style meal. Layer your casserole with avocado slices or a colorful salsa fresca on the side to elevate the presentation and wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Leftovers are ideal for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave smaller portions, but the oven will help maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas bring an authentic texture, but flour tortillas work just as well and add a softer, chewier bite that some people love. Just cut them into strips the same way for layering.

Is this recipe spicy?

The chipotle enchilada sauce offers a mild smoky heat, but the spice level is moderate and can be adjusted by choosing milder or hotter sauces to suit your taste perfectly.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cheeses and milk with your favorite plant-based alternatives to keep all the creamy goodness while making it vegan-friendly.

What can I use if I don’t have chipotle enchilada sauce?

You can substitute with any good quality enchilada sauce or mix a regular enchilada sauce with a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for that signature smoky flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach can be fantastic additions that add extra nutrition and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole Recipe is such a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Mexican-inspired dish with wholesome, vegetarian ingredients. It’s bursting with bold flavors, creamy textures, and satisfying layers that make every bite feel like a warm hug. I’m sure once you try making this, it will quickly become a favorite to revisit again and again. So go ahead—gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delightful, comforting casserole!