Enchilada Bowl Freezer Meal Recipe

In search of a freezer meal that’s not only scrumptious but also family-friendly and easy to prepare? Look forward to the delightful flavors of a Enchilada Bowl! This mouthwatering dish features an array of wholesome ingredients like black beans, corn, and gooey cheese, all layered with bold enchilada sauce.

Whether you’re a busy parent or a friend offering a helping hand, this make-ahead meal is the perfect solution.

One of the greatest perks of the Enchilada Bowl is its versatility. It accommodates various dietary preferences and restrictions, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or a thoughtful gift for a friend in need. If you’re striving for a plant-based diet, rest assured that this recipe is entirely meat-free. And if you want to add a twist of your own, feel free to customize it with additional ingredients like diced bell peppers, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Another incredible feature of this freezer meal is the convenience it offers. With just a little prep time, you can assemble multiple servings and store them in the freezer. This means that on those chaotic evenings when cooking from scratch feels nearly impossible, you can simply grab one of these frozen gems, heat it up, and relish the comfort of a homemade dinner without the hassle.

Say goodbye to weeknight cooking stress and hello to convenience and flavor!

Why you’ll love this customizable Enchilada Bowl Recipe

• Minimal Clean Up
• Freezer Meal Friendly
• Meatless Option
• Customizable 
• Kid-friendly
• Budget-Friendly

Enchilada Bowl Freezer Meal Recipe

Hannah Stewart

This mouthwatering dish features an array of wholesome ingredients like black beans, corn, and gooey cheese, all layered with bold enchilada sauce.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 895 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Slow Cooker or Crockpot
• 1 gallon freezer bag

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

• 14.5 oz chicken broth can
• 1 cup quinoa uncooked
• 10 oz enchilada sauce
• 4.5 oz green chiles
• 14.5 oz black beans drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For serving:

• 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• taco toppings of choice

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Instructions

 

Freezer Prep Directions:

• Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method. 
• Add all ingredients, except for serving, to the freezer bag.
• Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months. 

Slow Cooker Directions:

• Dump contents of the freezer bag into a slow cooker. 
• Cook on low 3 – 4 hours.
• Stir, serve and enjoy! Top with favorite taco toppings!

Instant Pot Directions

1. Dump the contents of the freezer bag into the Instant Pot, plus 1/2 cup water.
2. Set to High Pressure for 2 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release followed by a quick release. 
3. Stir, serve and enjoy! Top with favorite taco toppings!

Dietary Adjustments

Make it Gluten-Free:

• Ensure your broth and enchilada sauce are both gluten-free.

 

 

Make it Dairy-Free:

• This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Freezer Labels

Enchilada Bowl Freezer Meal Printable Label

Notes

• May top with favorite taco toppings! (cheese, guacamole, salsa, etc…)
• Make it pretty: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.
   

Nutrition

Calories: 895kcalCarbohydrates: 131gProtein: 45gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 8996mgPotassium: 2137mgFiber: 34gSugar: 10gCalcium: 508mgIron: 20mg

Keyword crockpot dinners, freezer meals, slow cooker enchilada bowls, Slow Cooker Recipes

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Equipment Needed to make a Freezer Friendly Enchilada Bowl!

• 1 Slow Cooker or Crockpot
• 1 gallon freezer bag

Ingredients for your Vegetarian Enchilada Bowl

• 14.5 can Chicken broth
• 1 cup Uncooked quinoa
• 10 oz Enchilada sauce
• 4.5 oz Can chopped green chilies
• 14.5 oz Cans black beans drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1/2 tsp Chili powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• For serving:
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese Shredded
• 2 cups Uncooked rice

How to Make a Enchilada Bowl!

Prep/freezer directions:

1. Label Freezer bag with recipe name, cooking from frozen directions and expiration date (todays date plus three months).
2. Add all ingredients to labeled gallon freezer bag.
3. Store in freezer for up to three months.

Cooking directions:

1. Can cook from frozen or thaw overnight in fridge.
2. Add freezer bag contents into slow cooker.
3. Cook on low 3 – 4 hours.
4. Serve on rice! Top with some cheese and enjoy!
5. Optional: Serve in tortilla and top with your favorite taco toppings!

What to serve with your Mexican-Inspired Enchilada Bowl?

Sides:

• Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips
• Mexican Rice

Desserts:

• Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce
• Tres Leches Cake
• Rose Petal Flan

Mocktails:

• Spicy Lemon Ginger Switchel
• Mango Agua Fresca
• Hibiscus Iced tea

Popular Substitutions and Additions

• Quinoa Variations: Instead of quinoa, you can substitute with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even couscous to change the texture and flavor of your bowl. These alternatives will provide different nutritional profiles and taste experiences.
• Enchilada Sauce Options: If you prefer a different flavor or spice level, you can switch out the enchilada sauce for a green enchilada sauce, mole sauce, or a homemade tomato-based salsa. Experimenting with different sauces can give your bowl a unique twist.
• Bean Variety: While black beans are commonly used, you can substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or white beans for a variation in taste and texture. Different beans can also provide additional protein and fiber.

Additions:

• Roasted Vegetables: Consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes to increase the nutrient content and add depth of flavor to your bowl. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole can provide a creamy, cool contrast to the bowl’s warmth and spiciness. Avocado adds healthy fats and a burst of flavor.
• Fresh Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten up the dish and enhance its overall taste. It adds a zesty, citrusy kick that complements the other flavors.

These substitutions and additions allow you to customize your Vegetarian Enchilada Bowl according to your preferences and dietary requirements while maintaining the convenience of a freezer meal.

How to Reheat and Store Enchilada Bowl after cooking

Best way to store Enchilada Bowl homemade after cooking?

Properly storing your Enchilada Bowl leftovers is essential to maintain their freshness and safety. Start by allowing your leftovers to cool down to room temperature on the kitchen counter for no more than two hours.

Afterward, transfer them into airtight storage containers or resealable plastic bags, ensuring there’s minimal air inside to prevent freezer burn or spoilage. Make it a habit to label the containers with the date to keep track of their freshness.

In case you plan to store them for an extended period, the freezer is a great option. Frozen leftovers can stay fresh for several months. This method ensures the preservation of flavor and quality while allowing you to enjoy your favorite meals conveniently.

How long will Enchilada Bowl leftovers last in the fridge?

To ensure the freshness and safety of leftovers, it’s crucial to understand their shelf life in the fridge. Generally, Enchilada bowl leftovers can remain fresh for 4-5 days when stored appropriately. Proper cooling and sealing minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

The freezer can extend their shelf life while maintaining flavor and quality for up to several months. Proper storage and timely consumption are key factors in enjoying your favorite dishes while reducing food waste.

Can I freeze a Quick and Tasty Enchilada Bowl after cooking?

Absolutely, you can freeze leftover Enchilada bowl, and it’s a fantastic way to ensure they stay delicious for a longer period. To freeze Vegetarian Enchiladas successfully, follow these simple steps. After preparing the enchilada bowl, let them cool down to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent condensation and ice crystals from forming inside the container.

Portion and wrap: Divide the enchiladas into individual portions or place them in a single container suitable for freezing. You can use airtight freezer-safe containers, heavy-duty aluminum foil, or freezer bags for this purpose. Remove excess air: If using bags, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing to minimize freezer burn.

Label and date: Don’t forget to label each container or bag with the date of freezing. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer. Freeze: Place the enchiladas in the freezer, making sure they’re stored flat to maximize space efficiency.

Frozen Vegetarian Enchiladas can stay in the freezer for approximately 2-3 months while maintaining their quality and taste.

How to Reheat Easy and Healthy Enchilada Bowl leftovers?

Reheating your delicious Enchilada Bowl is a breeze, and you have two convenient methods at your disposal: the microwave and stove top.

Microwave Method: For a quick and easy reheat, start by transferring your frozen Enchilada Bowl to a microwave-safe container. If your enchilada bowl is a bit frosty, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting first. Then, heat it on medium power to prevent overheating or drying out. In general, a 30-60 seconds interval should do the trick, but remember to pause and stir or check for doneness between each interval. This ensures that your enchilada bowl heats evenly and thoroughly. Once it’s hot and ready, you’re good to go!

Stovetop Method: If you prefer to maintain that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, the stovetop method is your best friend. Heat a non-stick skillet or pan over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once the pan is warm, transfer your frozen enchilada bowl contents. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and maintain that scrumptious texture. Adding a splash of water or broth and covering the pan with a lid helps keep your meal moist and flavorful. Within a few minutes, your enchilada bowl will be sizzling and ready to enjoy!

Delicious Enchilada Bowl Recipe FAQs

Other vegetarian recipes you’ll love!

• Curry Lentil Soup 
• Vegan Tortilla Soup
• White Bean Spinach Soup
• Red Thai Coconut Curry
• Vegetarian Freezer Burritos

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