One-Pot Enchilada Casserole Low Carb for Easy Cooking
What Is the Recipe for Cheesy Enchilada Casserole?
🧀 CHEESY ENCHILADA CASSEROLE RECIPE: Mix cooked shredded chicken with sour cream, keto enchilada sauce, green chilies, chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Layer in a greased dish with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest before serving warm.
Enchilada casserole low carb is a comforting, layered dish made with seasoned meat, cheese, and low-carb ingredients like sugar-free enchilada sauce and optional keto-friendly tortillas.
It brings the bold flavor of traditional enchiladas without the extra carbs. You’ll find many versions, some use ground beef with sour cream, others go with shredded chicken and cream cheese.
This post will guide you through making your low-carb enchilada casserole, from the ingredients and equipment to step-by-step instructions, expert tips, serving ideas, nutrition info, storage tips, and FAQs to help you stay on track with your low-carb goals.
Table of Contents:
- Is Enchilada Casserole Keto-Friendly?
- Ingredients to Prepare
- Ingredient Measurement
- Equipment You’ll Need
- How to Make Enchilada Casserole Low Carb
- Enchilada Casserole Low Carb Nutrition
- Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Enchilada Casserole Low Carb
- Serving and Pairing Ideas
- How to Store Enchilada Casserole Low Carb
- More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Is Enchilada Casserole Keto-Friendly?
Yes, enchilada casserole can be keto-friendly as long as you use the right ingredients. Traditional versions often include corn tortillas, beans, and sauces with added sugars, which push up the carb count quickly.
But with a few adjustments, you can enjoy the same great flavors while keeping it low in carbs. Swap out regular tortillas for low-carb ones or leave them out entirely.
Choose a sugar-free enchilada sauce and skip high-carb fillers like rice or beans. Instead, focus on protein like ground beef or chicken, rich cheeses, sour cream, and keto-friendly spices.
With these changes, you’ll get a cheesy, flavorful casserole that fits perfectly into a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It’s hearty, satisfying, and still packed with that classic enchilada taste without the carb crash.
Ingredients to Prepare
Before you start cooking, make sure you’ve got everything ready. These simple ingredients are the key to building bold flavor in your low-carb enchilada casserole.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Tender and juicy, this forms the base of the casserole. It soaks up the sauce and adds hearty, satisfying protein to every bite.
- Keto enchilada sauce: Choose a sugar-free version to keep carbs low. It brings the rich, spicy flavor that gives the dish its signature enchilada taste.
- Sour cream: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy element that balances the spice and creates a smooth, rich texture throughout the filling.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the top and in between layers, giving the casserole that gooey, cheesy pull everyone loves.
- Smoked paprika: Lends a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the sauce and ties all the spices together without overpowering the dish.
- Green chilies: Mildly spicy and flavorful, they add moisture and a subtle kick, blending seamlessly into the creamy filling.
- Chili powder: Delivers classic Mexican flavor with warmth and depth, giving the casserole that familiar enchilada-style seasoning.
Ingredient Measurement
Now that you know what to use, let’s break down the exact measurements. These portions are perfect for building a balanced, flavorful low-carb enchilada casserole.
- 1 pound of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup of keto enchilada sauce
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 4 ounces of green chilies
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Equipment You’ll Need
Before you jump into cooking, gather your kitchen tools. These basic items will help you prepare, layer, and bake your low-carb enchilada casserole with ease.
- 8×8 casserole dish
- Wooden spoon
- Oven or toaster oven
- Large bowl
How to Make Enchilada Casserole Low Carb
Making an enchilada casserole low-carb is surprisingly easy, even if you’re short on time. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a flavorful, cheesy dish ready to hit the oven.
No fancy techniques or equipment needed, just a few simple layers and you’re set. Here’s how to bring everything together in three straightforward steps.
Step 1: Preheat and Mix the Filling
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sour cream, diced green chilies, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of enchilada sauce into the bottom of an 8×8-inch casserole dish.
- Evenly spread the chicken mixture over the sauce, then pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top.
Step 3: Bake and Garnish
- Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Add your favorite toppings before serving enjoy it warm.
Enchilada Casserole Low Carb Nutrition
This dish fits well into a low-carb lifestyle, thanks to its focus on high-protein, low-sugar ingredients. With no heavy starches or added sugars, it keeps things balanced without sacrificing flavor.
The mix of healthy fats, protein, and minimal carbs helps keep you full longer and supports keto-friendly goals. It’s a great option when you want something hearty and satisfying that still aligns with your nutritional needs.
Here’s an approximate count per serving:
- Calories: 338 kcal
- Total fat: 22 grams
- Net carbs: 6 grams
- Protein: 27 grams
It’s packed with protein and fat to keep you full, while keeping the carbs in check. Perfect for keto and low-carb lifestyles.
Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Enchilada Casserole Low Carb
Want to take your casserole from good to great? These expert tips will help you perfect texture, flavor, and consistency while keeping it low-carb and delicious.
- Use sugar-free enchilada sauce: Always check the label, many store-bought sauces contain hidden sugars that can quickly raise the carb count.
- Skip the tortillas altogether: If you want to lower carbs even further, leave out the low-carb tortillas and go for a crustless, layered bake instead.
- Add cream cheese for extra richness: Mixing in a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese gives the filling a creamy texture without needing extra carbs.
- Pre-cook your meat well: Make sure your chicken or beef is fully cooked and well-seasoned before layering it enhances the flavor and prevents excess moisture.
- Shred your cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that add unnecessary carbs, so shredding it yourself keeps it cleaner and tastier.
- Let it rest before serving: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking to help it set and slice more easily without falling apart.
- Layer cheese generously on top: A solid top layer of cheese helps seal in the moisture and adds that perfect golden crust once baked.
- Taste the filling before assembling: This helps you adjust seasoning like salt, chili powder, or paprika to get the right level of flavor throughout the dish.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Once your casserole is hot and ready, it’s time to think about what goes with it. These serving and pairing ideas make every bite even better.
Serving Ideas:
- Mexican cauliflower rice: This low-carb rice substitute is light, fluffy, and absorbs the enchilada sauce beautifully, perfect for soaking up every drop without adding extra carbs.
- Shredded lettuce with lime: Crisp, cool, and citrusy, it adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the cheese and meat in the casserole.
- Avocado slices or guacamole: Creamy, smooth, and full of good fats, avocado cools down the spices and makes each serving feel a little more indulgent.
- Low-carb tortilla chips: Crunchy and salty, they’re great for scooping up any leftovers on the plate or adding a fun, snacky side.
- Sour cream and fresh salsa: These toppings add contrast sour cream brings cooling creaminess, while salsa adds brightness and a punch of flavor.
- Jalapeño slices or pickled onions: These toppings bring heat, acidity, and extra texture that wakes up each bite.
Pairing Ideas:
- Cucumber lime agua fresca: Refreshing and hydrating, this light beverage balances the warmth of the casserole with a subtle sweetness and clean citrus finish.
- Sparkling water with lemon or lime: The bubbles cut through the richness of the cheese, while the citrus adds a bright touch that doesn’t overpower.
- Unsweetened iced tea: A smooth, cooling drink that pairs well with spicy foods and helps cleanse the palate between bites of saucy, cheesy casserole.
- Keto margarita: A fun, low-carb cocktail option made with tequila, lime juice, and a sugar-free sweetener, perfect if you’re in the mood for something festive.
This dish also works well for potlucks, meal prep, or even breakfast leftovers with a fried egg on top. Seriously, don’t knock it till you try it.
How to Store Enchilada Casserole Low Carb
Storing your low-carb enchilada casserole is simple, and it keeps well for leftovers. Once it cools completely, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container.
You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the entire casserole tightly wrapped in foil or a freezer-safe container.
It stays good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.
Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, this casserole holds up great without losing flavor or texture.
More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home
If this low-carb enchilada casserole hit the spot, you’ll love these other keto-friendly dishes. They’re easy to make and full of bold flavor, too.
- Delicious BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe for Family Dinners
- Green Bean Hamburger Casserole You’ll Make on Repeat
- Low Carb Mexican Casserole Recipe That’s Better Than Tacos
- Easy Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe for Busy Morning Meals
- Low Carb Chicken Casserole: Tasty & Nutritious Options
These recipes keep things exciting and easy to stick with your low-carb goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Eat Enchiladas While Trying to Lose Weight?
Yes, you can if you make low-carb adjustments. By using ingredients like lean protein, sugar-free sauce, and skipping high-carb tortillas, enchiladas can fit into a weight loss plan without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Portion control also plays a key role.
What Mexican Dish Has the Lowest Carbs?
Some of the lowest-carb Mexican dishes include grilled meats like carne asada, fajitas without tortillas, and low-carb enchilada casserole. These meals skip the rice, beans, and tortillas, focusing instead on protein, spices, and keto-friendly toppings like cheese, avocado, and sour cream.
Are Chicken Enchiladas Keto-Friendly?
Chicken enchiladas can be keto-friendly with a few simple swaps. Use low-carb tortillas or skip them entirely, choose a sugar-free enchilada sauce, and load up on cheese, sour cream, and shredded chicken. These adjustments keep the carbs low while still delivering bold, satisfying flavor.
Final Thoughts
Enchilada casserole low carb is a flavorful and easy-to-make casserole recipe that brings all the comfort of traditional enchiladas without the extra carbs.
With seasoned meat, creamy sour cream, Mexican blend cheese, and just the right amount of spice, it delivers everything you want in comfort food.
Whether you’re using 2 cups of shredded chicken or another protein, the results are satisfying, simple, and keto-approved.
As the saying goes, good food brings people together, and this dish says, “gather around and enjoy.”
We’ve walked through everything you need to know, from keto-friendly swaps to storing leftovers and tasty serving ideas.
Ready to keep cooking low-carb meals that don’t sacrifice flavor? Visit our website for more delicious keto recipes, tips, and easy meal ideas to keep your kitchen inspired and your goals on track.