Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Casserole

We’re so used to thinking that meatballs are exclusively Italian, which is silly, because tons of cultures have their own twists on making meatballs. (Though we’ll always love meatballs in a homemade Italian sauce!) Here though, we used classic Mexican flavors as our inspiration and came up with a sort of enchilada meatball casserole. This meal is super easy to throw together – literally, you just mix your ingredients together and put it all in the oven – and then you’re left with an incredibly flavorful, well-rounded meal that’s perfect for bringing the family together on busy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Casserole combines the comfort of meatballs with the zesty flavors of enchiladas, creating a dish that’s both fun and satisfying. Whether you’re using homemade meatballs or opting for the convenience of store-bought, the result is a delicious, hearty meal that comes together quickly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Non-stick spray
• Oven

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, divided
• 1 (22 oz.) bag frozen (fully-cooked) meatballs, thawed
• 1 (10 oz.) can red enchilada sauce
• 1 bunch cilantro, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, black beans, onion, 1 cup of the cheese, and the thawed meatballs. Pour the enchilada sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well-coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and top with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• If you prefer homemade meatballs, go for it! Just ensure they are fully cooked before using them in the casserole.
• Feel free to customize with your favorite spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or cumin for an extra kick.

Additional Tips or Variations

To add a bit more texture, consider mixing in some corn or chopped bell peppers. You can also serve this casserole with a dollop of sour cream or a side of guacamole for added richness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact nutritional values will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used, this dish is a great source of protein and fiber, thanks to the meatballs and black beans. It’s also rich in calcium from the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a bit more fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor.

What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
You can substitute with salsa or a homemade enchilada sauce if you prefer.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, perfect for when you need a quick and delicious meal. We hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with!