Hearty Black Bean Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole
Indulge in this Hearty Black Bean Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole, a deliciously rich and satisfying dish perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying as leftovers during the week. This casserole combines layers of wholesome ingredients, including black beans, corn, and a zesty tomato salsa, all enveloped in warm tortillas and topped with a sprinkle of olives. Easy to prepare in a slow cooker, this recipe is great for entertaining or a cozy family dinner. Serve it with a side of sour cream or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Crushed Tomatoes
28 ounces (canned)
Chunky Style Prepared Salsa
14 ounces (jarred)
Tomato Paste
6 ounces (canned)
Black Beans
32 ounces (canned, rinsed, and drained)
Corn Kernels
1 pound (thawed if frozen)
Diced Mild Green Chilies
4 ounces (canned, drained)
Ground Cumin
1.5 tablespoons (spice)
Garlic Powder
0.5 teaspoon (spice)
Corn Tortillas
5 (cut to fit)
Black Olives
2 ounces (sliced and drained)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, salsa, tomato paste, black beans, corn, green chilies, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
2
Pour approximately one cup of the tomato and bean mixture into the bottom of an electric slow cooker set to low heat.
3
Take 1.5 corn tortillas, cut them into pieces to fit the pot, and layer them evenly over the mixture in the slow cooker.
4
Spread one-third of the remaining tomato mixture over the tortillas, ensuring even coverage.
5
Repeat the layering process (tortillas followed by tomato mixture) two more times, finishing with the last portion of the tomato mixture on top.
6
Spread the top layer of the casserole evenly and sprinkle the sliced black olives all over.
7
Cover the slow cooker and cook the casserole for about 5 hours on low heat until heated through and flavors meld together.
8
Once cooked, serve hot, optionally garnished with sour cream or avocado.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hearty Black Bean Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole?
It is a rich and satisfying vegetarian dish that layers black beans, corn, zesty tomato salsa, and tortillas, prepared in a slow cooker.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegetarian as it uses black beans and vegetables rather than meat.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include crushed tomatoes, salsa, tomato paste, black beans, corn kernels, green chilies, and corn tortillas.
How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?
The casserole should be cooked for approximately 5 hours on low heat.
What setting should my slow cooker be on?
You should use the low heat setting on your electric slow cooker.
Do I need to thaw the corn before using it?
Yes, if you are using frozen corn kernels, they should be thawed before being mixed with other ingredients.
Should the black beans be prepared in any specific way?
The black beans should be canned, rinsed, and drained before use.
What type of tortillas are used in this casserole?
The recipe calls for 5 corn tortillas, which should be cut to fit the pot.
How many layers are in the casserole?
The layering process is repeated three times in total, starting with a base layer followed by two additional layers of tortillas and mixture.
What size can of crushed tomatoes do I need?
You will need a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The recipe is seasoned with 1.5 tablespoons of ground cumin and 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Is the salsa used in this recipe spicy?
The recipe calls for chunky style prepared salsa, so you can choose a mild, medium, or hot variety based on your preference.
What is the garnish on top of the casserole?
The top layer is sprinkled with 2 ounces of sliced and drained black olives.
What are some recommended sides or toppings for serving?
It is delicious served with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh avocado.
Are the green chilies hot?
The recipe specifies diced mild green chilies to provide flavor without excessive heat.
Does this recipe contain any meat?
No, this is a meat-free recipe focused on plant-based proteins like black beans.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe due to its inclusion of beans, corn, and tomatoes.
What cuisine does this dish belong to?
This dish is inspired by Mexican cuisine.
Do I need to pre-cook the tortillas?
No, the corn tortillas are layered raw into the slow cooker and soften during the cooking process.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
The recipe specifically recommends corn tortillas for the best texture and flavor in this casserole.
What type of salsa is best?
A chunky style prepared salsa is recommended to add texture to the sauce.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 tablespoons of ground cumin.
What is the role of tomato paste in this dish?
The 6 ounces of tomato paste helps thicken the sauce and adds a deep tomato flavor.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe requires 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How many total ounces of beans are needed?
You will need 32 ounces of canned black beans.
Is this recipe good for leftovers?
Yes, the description notes that it is perfect for enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Is this a good recipe for entertaining?
Yes, it is ideal for feeding a hungry crowd and is very easy to prepare.
How do I start the layering process?
Begin by pouring approximately one cup of the tomato and bean mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the first layer of tortillas.
What is the final step before cooking?
The final step is to spread the top layer evenly and sprinkle it with sliced black olives.