Tortilla Chip Enchiladas: A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food

There’s something magical about a dish that brings everyone to the table. Comfort food has a way of wrapping you in warmth, reminding you of family dinners and shared laughter. Tortilla Chip Enchiladas are that kind of meal—a modern twist on a crispy and cheesy classic, perfect for any occasion.

Busy weeknights? No problem. This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, with minimal cleanup. It’s a family favorite that fits seamlessly into your routine. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in beef, chicken, or plant-based proteins to suit everyone’s tastes.

Inspired by the nostalgic charm of church cookbook recipes, this dish feels like a warm hug. It’s a weeknight dinner solution that uses pantry staples like canned sauce and frozen corn, making it convenient and comforting.

Key Takeaways

• A modern twist on traditional Mexican dishes, combining crispy texture and cheesy goodness.
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy families.
• Adaptable to various dietary preferences with protein options like beef, chicken, or plant-based substitutes.
• Inspired by nostalgic, church cookbook-style recipes.
• Uses pantry staples for a convenient weeknight dinner solution.

Introduction to Tortilla Chip Enchiladas

Simplify your weeknight routine with a meal that’s both easy and delicious. This enchilada casserole takes the fuss out of traditional recipes by layering ingredients instead of rolling them. It’s a modern twist that saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Inspired by the simplicity of church cookbook recipes, this dish has evolved into a favorite for lazy enchiladas. Whether you use pre-cooked meat or add sour cream for extra creaminess, the result is always satisfying. It’s perfect for a Mexican dinner that feels homemade yet effortless.

One of the biggest challenges with traditional recipes is soggy tortillas. This version solves that problem using crispy chips, which maintain their texture even after baking. The casserole-style presentation makes it ideal for serving crowds or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Here’s why this easy recipe stands out:

• Layering ingredients cuts prep time in half.
• Versatile enough to accommodate different proteins and dietary needs.
• Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.

With its convenience and comfort, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. Whether cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, having the essentials on hand makes the process seamless. Below, we’ve broken down what you’ll need into essential ingredients and optional add-ons to customize your meal.

Essential Ingredients

To build the base of this dish, you’ll need a few key components. Start with ground beef or shredded chicken for protein. Add red enchilada sauce for a rich, tangy flavor. Crushed tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch, while shredded cheese (like cheddar or Colby Jack) adds creaminess. Don’t forget diced green chilies for a mild kick and cumin for depth of flavor. A touch of salsa ties everything together.

Optional Add-ons

Want to elevate your dish? Consider adding black beans for extra protein or jalapeños for heat. Olives and fresh cilantro bring a burst of freshness, while a squeeze of lime juice adds zing. For a creamy finish, top with sour cream or slices of avocado.

Feel free to experiment with substitutions. Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option or swap in cream of mushroom soup for a more decadent sauce. Corn tortillas work as a great alternative if you’re out of chips. For a spicier twist, try pepper jack cheese or a Mexican blend for authenticity.

This recipe is perfect for budget-conscious cooks, as it relies on pantry staples like canned chilies and frozen corn. With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a comforting and customizable dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Creating a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these clear instructions to make a dish that’s easy and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this guide ensures success every time.

Preparing the Filling

Start by browning ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic for extra flavor. Drain the excess fat once the meat is fully cooked to keep the dish light.

Next, stir in salsa, diced green chilies, and a pinch of cumin. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Assembling the Dish

In a 9×13” baking dish, layer crushed chips and the meat mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used. Some recipes suggest mixing the chips directly into the filling for added cohesion before layering.

Top with a generous amount of cups of shredded cheese. This ensures a creamy, gooey finish that everyone will love.

Baking Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F for even cooking. Cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for 10 minutes to melt the cheese perfectly.

The total bake time may vary between 30 and 50 minutes, depending on the depth of your dish. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Kid-Friendly Tip: Let younger helpers mix the ingredients or sprinkle the cheese. Just remind them to stay safe around hot dishes.

Standard Issue: To prevent soggy textures, avoid overmixing the chips and ensure the cheese is fully melted before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your meal with creative serving ideas that impress. Whether hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a family meal, the proper garnishes and side dishes can take your dish to the next level. Here’s how to make it shine.

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes add a burst of flavor and color. Top your dish with diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. For a creamy twist, try guacamole or Greek yogurt. Pickled jalapeños and lime wedges add a tangy kick, while fresh cilantro brings a vibrant finish.

Side Dishes

Pair your meal with classic side dishes for a complete dining experience. Mexican rice and refried beans are timeless choices. For a lighter option, serve with roasted veggies or a citrus salad. A crisp cabbage slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the dish’s richness.

Leftovers store well in airtight containers for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal. For presentation, serve directly from the baking dish for casual gatherings or plate individually with layered garnishes for a more polished look.

Conclusion

Bringing people together has never been easier with this crowd-pleasing meal. Whether cooking for a family favorite dinner or hosting a potluck, this dish adapts to your needs. Swap in beans or corn tortillas for a vegetarian or gluten-free twist.

Feel free to experiment with spice levels and ingredient ratios to suit your taste. This easy recipe is perfect for busy evenings, game days, or casual gatherings. It’s a comfort food that everyone will love.

Remember to save or share this recipe for your next weeknight meal. Pin it now for easy access! If you try it, tag @thecountrycook on social media to show off your creation.

Tortilla Chip Enchiladas: A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food

---

• Author: Jack Morgan
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Tortilla Chip Enchiladas are a comforting, cheesy twist on a Mexican favorite. With layers of crushed chips, seasoned meat, and tangy enchilada sauce, this easy casserole comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Inspired by nostalgic church cookbook recipes, it’s a crowd-pleaser with pantry staples and customizable toppings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef or 2 cups shredded chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed for sautéing)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup salsa

• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 cups red enchilada sauce

• 3–4 cups crushed tortilla chips

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, or Mexican blend)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ons:

• Black beans

• Jalapeños

• Sliced olives

• Fresh cilantro

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Lime wedges

• Avocado slices

---

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef (or shredded chicken). Add diced onion and garlic; cook until soft.

• Stir in salsa, green chilies, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

• In a 9×13” baking dish, layer crushed tortilla chips, meat mixture, and a drizzle of enchilada sauce. Repeat layers.

• Top with shredded cheese.

• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

• Remove the foil and bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with toppings of choice.

Notes

Great make-ahead meal—assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

To avoid soggy chips, avoid overmixing them with wet ingredients before layering.

Substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lean or vegetarian option.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Keywords: tortilla chip enchiladas, cheesy enchilada casserole, lazy enchiladas, quick Mexican dinner, ground beef enchiladas, chicken enchilada bake, weeknight comfort food