Vegan Enchilada Casserole Recipe for Easy Weeknight Meals

Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican dish known for their rich flavors, comforting warmth, and satisfying layers of sauce, cheese, and fillings. But what if you want to enjoy this classic meal without any animal products?

Enter the vegan enchilada casserole—a delicious, hearty twist on traditional enchiladas that’s perfect for those following a plant-based diet or anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

This casserole combines layers of soft tortillas, savory beans, vibrant vegetables, and a smoky enchilada sauce to create a meal that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this recipe is easy to customize and sure to become a staple. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients that will keep you energized and satisfied.

Get ready to dive into a dish that brings all the warmth and zest of Mexican cuisine—without any dairy or meat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan enchilada casserole is a fantastic blend of comfort food and wholesome nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

The recipe is incredibly versatile—use whatever veggies you have on hand or swap beans for lentils to suit your taste.

Another reason this recipe shines is because it uses a homemade enchilada sauce that’s both flavorful and free from preservatives or added sugars. Layered with creamy avocado or vegan cheese alternatives, this casserole satisfies any craving for cheesy, saucy goodness without the dairy.

Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers or pack it for lunch the next day.

Finally, this dish is perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or feeding a family, the casserole format allows for easy serving and portioning, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

• 10 corn or flour tortillas (ensure vegan-friendly)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought vegan)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
• 1 cup vegan cheese (shredded, optional)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1 avocado, sliced for topping (optional)

Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inch works best)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Can opener

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the peppers start softening.
4. Mix in the black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole: Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.
6. Layer 3-4 tortillas on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping if needed.
7. Spread a third of the filling mixture evenly over the tortillas, then drizzle with 1/3 cup of enchilada sauce and sprinkle with a bit of vegan cheese if using.
8. Repeat the layering process two more times: tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese.
9. Finish with a final layer of tortillas topped with the remaining enchilada sauce and vegan cheese.
10. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
11. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
12. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced avocado before serving.

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you prefer a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture before baking.

Feel free to swap out the black beans for pinto beans or even lentils for a different texture and flavor. For added nutrition, toss in some finely chopped spinach or kale with the veggies during sautéing.

If you want a creamier texture, drizzle a simple vegan cashew cream or the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes over the layers before baking.

For gluten-free options, use corn tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce is certified gluten-free. You can also experiment with homemade tortillas using the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan enchilada casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette or a side of Mexican-style rice and beans for a fuller meal. You can also serve it with guacamole, fresh salsa, or tortilla chips to add extra layers of flavor and texture.

For a festive touch, top individual servings with sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, or a dollop of vegan sour cream. This recipe also works perfectly for meal prep—simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven and enjoy a quick, nourishing lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

This vegan enchilada casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle. Its layers of hearty beans, fresh veggies, and smoky enchilada sauce combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing.

The recipe’s flexibility allows you to make it your own, whether you want it mild or spicy, simple or loaded with extra greens and cheese alternatives.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love exploring other plant-based dishes like Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners and All Vegetable Casserole Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals.

For something sweet to finish, check out the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

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