Delicious Vegetarian Tortilla Bake Recipe for a Healthy Meal
Welcome to my delicious Vegetarian Tortilla Bake Recipe article! Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe is perfect for you! With a combination of savory and bold Mexican flavors, this casserole promises to satisfy all your taste buds. As a vegan chef, I always strive to create recipes that are not only flavorful but also packed with wholesome ingredients. This Vegetarian Tortilla Bake Recipe is no exception.
The recipe features a variety of nutrient-rich vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes in addition to protein-packed canned pinto beans and black beans. So you can feel good about nourishing your body with essential vitamins and minerals while indulging in a delicious dish.
What makes this dish so special is how easy it is to make. You don’t have to be an expert in the kitchen to whip up this tasty tortilla casserole. All you need are some basic cooking skills and few simple ingredients for an amazing result! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting dinner on a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress you and your family.
So let’s get started on this journey of creating the ultimate vegetarian Mexican casserole that might become your go-to recipe for dinner parties or any mealtime occasion. Get ready to experience the flavorful taste of fresh cilantro and salsa combined with wheat flour tortillas, mild green chilies, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese with every bite – I can promise you won’t be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a vegetarian casserole recipe that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make? Look no further than this delicious Vegetarian Tortilla Bake Recipe!
This Mexican-inspired casserole is loaded with healthy ingredients like black and pinto beans, bell peppers, onions, chopped tomatoes, and roasted corn. The combination of chili powder and cumin gives it a smoky kick that will satisfy even the most selective palates.
And the best part? The layers of tortillas and cheese make it a hearty and filling option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping throughout the week.
Plus, the recipe is completely customizable to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use vegan cheese and sour cream if plant-based is what you’re looking for.
So whether you’re a vegetarian, just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or just in search of new recipes to add to your rotation, this Vegetarian Tortilla Bake Recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredient List
Let’s start by gathering the necessary ingredients to make this delicious vegetarian tortilla bake recipe. You’ll find most of these items easily in your local grocery store, and best of all, they are all vegetarian-friendly. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
For the Casserole
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 cups canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup mild salsa
- 1 can (4 oz.) mild green chilies
- 12 wheat flour tortillas
- Olive oil
For the Seasoning
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 2 cups reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnishing
These fresh and healthy ingredients will ensure that your tortilla bake is packed with both flavor and nutrition. If you don’t eat dairy products, you can use vegan cheese or simply skip the cheese topping altogether. Let’s move on to the next section to learn why this vegetarian Mexican-inspired casserole is a must-make for any household.
The Recipe How-To
Now it’s time to get cooking! Here are the step-by-step instructions for making this delicious vegetarian Tortilla Bake:
Ingredients:
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 2 cups canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups salsa
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 12 wheat flour tortillas (6-inch)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup light sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, heat up one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, then add the diced bell peppers.
- Cook for a couple of minutes until they start to get tender, then add the rinsed and drained pinto beans and black beans.
- Add the chili powder and cumin, then stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Add half of the salsa into the pan with the pepper and bean mix.
- Spread ½ cup of the mixture in a baking dish.
- Layer half of your tortillas on top of your mixture, overlapping them slightly.
- Spoon another ½ cup of your mixture over your tortillas.
- Repeat with another layer of tortillas followed by another layer of your bean mixture until no more ingredients remain.
- Finish off by pouring the remaining salsa on top of your last layer.
- Now sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese all over the top of the bake so you have maximum coverage when melted.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven for 25 – 30 minutes
- Once done, remove from oven and let it cool off for about five minutes before enjoying.
This vegetarian Tortilla Bake recipe is perfect for nights when you want something that can be cooked in just one dish and easily doubled to have leftovers throughout the week!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up? This vegetarian tortilla bake is a versatile dish that you can easily customize to your liking. Have dietary restrictions or preferences? No problem! Here are some substitutions and variations to make this recipe work for you:
– Gluten-Free: Swap out the wheat flour tortillas for corn tortillas. Be sure to double-check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
– Vegan: Omit the cheese and sour cream, or use vegan alternatives made from nuts or soybeans. You can also add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
– Healthier Twist: Use reduced-fat cheese or skip it altogether. Add in more veggies such as summer squash, zucchini, or sliced mushrooms to add bulk and nutrients without adding calories.
– Spicier: Increase the amount of chili powder and cumin, or add some diced jalapeños or sriracha sauce for an extra kick.
– Cheesy Vegetable Tortilla Bake: Make it a cheesy vegetable tortilla bake by adding in some roasted veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and green beans. Top with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese before baking until bubbly.
– Refried Beans: Substitute the black beans with refried beans — either canned or homemade. For a twist, try seasoning them with cumin and chili powder.
Whether you are catering to specific preferences or just looking to experiment with flavors, these substitutions will give this classic vegetarian Mexican casserole recipe an exciting twist.
Serving and Pairing
This vegetarian tortilla bake recipe is a meal all on its own, and it’s perfect for sharing with your family or friends. Serve it up hot and enjoy the amazing aroma as it hits your nose. I recommend adding a dollop of light sour cream and some fresh cilantro on top to give it an extra burst of flavor and color.
Pairing this tasty tortilla casserole with a nice fresh salad is an excellent option. The coolness and crispness of the salad will contrast nicely with the warm and hearty flavors of the casserole, providing an ideal balance.
If you’re feeling adventurous or want to take things up a notch, pair this vegetarian Mexican tortilla casserole with some roasted veggies or grilled corn. The sweetness of the veggies will complement the saltiness of the casserole while also adding more texture to your plate.
Additionally, you can serve this casserole with rice or refried beans on the side to make it even heartier – there are endless possibilities!
Overall, this vegetarian tortilla bake recipe is a versatile dish that can be paired perfectly with different sides and drinks, creating an ideal setting for a memorable family-style dinner.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about this vegetarian tortilla bake recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored until you’re ready to serve. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or for entertaining a crowd.
To make ahead, simply assemble the dish as directed but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
One thing to keep in mind is that the longer the casserole sits in the fridge, the more moisture it will release as it settles. To combat this, simply dab away any excess moisture with a paper towel before reheating.
Overall, this vegetarian tortilla bake recipe is extremely versatile and can easily be made ahead of time or reheated as leftovers. So whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress!
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure that your vegetarian tortilla bake recipe comes out perfectly every time, there are some tips we recommend following. From the right ingredients to proper cooking techniques, here’s what you need to know to make the best tortilla casserole ever.
1. Use Fresh Cilantro
One of my top tips for elevating the flavor of the tortilla bake is by using fresh cilantro instead of dried cilantro. The herb adds a bold and refreshing taste to the dish which really enhances its complexity.
2. Don’t Overdo on Sour Cream and Cheese
While sour cream and cheese certainly add their own unique flavors to the vegetarian tortilla bake, it is important not to overdo it on these toppings. It’s best to go light when adding these toppings so that they do not overpower the other flavors in the dish.
3. Make Your Own Taco Seasoning Mix
Another way to add depth to your vegetarian Mexican tortilla casserole is by using homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought mixtures. Simply mix together chili powder, cumin, and other seasonings of your choosing for a personalized blend.
4. Roast Your Veggies
Roasting vegetables like bell peppers and summer squash adds a tasty twist to your tortilla casserole recipe. It brings out their natural sweetness, making them more flavorful.
5. Let it Simmer
For this tortilla bake recipe, allowing the dish time to simmer will help meld all of the flavors together. Resist the urge to rush through cooking it and let it simmer for a while – trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious vegetarian tortilla bake that even meat-lovers won’t be able to resist.
Bottom Line
:
In conclusion, the Vegetarian Tortilla Bake is a fantastic meal you should try! It has an irresistible aroma and looks like a masterpiece. This recipe is not only easy to make and delicious but also healthy, which makes it perfect for your vegan meals. With fresh cilantro, light sour cream, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, wheat flour tortillas, green chilies, black beans, chopped tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, green pepper, onion, and many other amazing ingredients packed into one casserole dish, you won’t regret trying it out.
The versatility of this recipe means that it’s perfect for any season or gathering. You can substitute any of the ingredients to suit your taste preference or dietary needs. The best part is that it’s a make-ahead dish that can be stored and reheated with ease. Hosting family gatherings or dinner parties would be a breeze with this recipe.
Overall, if you’re looking for a hearty meal bursting with Mexican flavors that are healthy and satisfying to your taste buds, then look no further than the Vegetarian Tortilla Bake recipe. It’s a must-try dish that will leave you wanting more. Try it once and I guarantee it will become a regular in your meal rotation!
Vegetarian Tortilla Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (or more)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more)
- 1 (15 ounce) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can canned pinto beans, drained
- 1 (4 1/2 ounce) can mild green chilies, drained
- 1 (12 -16 ounce) jar salsa
- 12 wheat flour tortillas (8 to 10-inch)
- 1 (8 ounce) bag shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 (8 ounce) bag shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- nonstick cooking spray
Finishing Touches
- light sour cream (optional)
- fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Spray a large skillet with nonstick spray; saute onions and peppers over medium-high heat.
- When the vegetables are tender, add the cumin, chili powder and the can of chopped tomatoes; simmer in the skillet for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together black beans, pinto beans and chiles; mix in jar of salsa.
- Spray the bottom a 9"x13" baking dishes with cooking spray.
- Place two tortillas on the bottom of the dish. Spread one-third of the vegetable mixture onto the tortillas, then one-third of the bean mixture; then sprinkle one-third of the cheese on top. Repeat layering two more times, finishing with the cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let stand five minutes before cutting and serving.
- Serve with fresh cilantro and a dollop of light sour cream, if desired.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.