Bitter Greens and Queso Fresco Enchilada Casserole
This layered enchilada casserole features slightly bitter greens, such as dandelion or escarole, balanced with creamy queso fresco and a rich, earthy mole sauce. It's a sophisticated twist on a classic, offering complex flavors that develop beautifully. Perfect for a hearty and intriguing lunch.

Prep Time
75 min
Difficulty
Medium
Servings
6
Calories
450 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
~10 min - 2
Wash and roughly chop the dandelion greens and escarole.
~5 min - 3
Finely dice the red onion and mince the garlic.
~5 min - 4
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
~5 min - 5
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
~1 min - 6
Add the chopped greens to the skillet, along with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens are wilted, about 8-10 minutes.
~10 min - 7
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mole poblano paste and chicken broth until smooth. This creates the enchilada sauce.
~3 min - 8
Cut the corn tortillas into quarters.
~2 min - 9
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
~1 min - 10
Spread a thin layer of mole sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
~1 min - 11
Layer half of the tortilla pieces over the sauce.
~1 min - 12
Spread half of the wilted greens mixture evenly over the tortillas.
~1 min - 13
Crumble half of the queso fresco over the greens.
~1 min - 14
Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortillas, greens, and queso fresco.
~2 min - 15
Pour the remaining mole sauce evenly over the top layer.
~1 min - 16
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
~1 min - 17
Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is slightly bubbly.
~40 min - 18
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
~5 min
Tips
- If dandelion greens are too bitter for your preference, you can blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds before sautéing to reduce their bitterness.
- Serve with a dollop of Mexican crema or a side of avocado for extra richness and to complement the bitter notes.
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