Low Carb Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bake

Low Carb Beef Enchilada Bake

This is a super easy and delicious Low Carb Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bake made with mega layers of spicy taco seasoned beef, zucchini, garlic, onions, low-carb tortillas, enchilada sauce and gobs of gooey cheddar cheese, topped with sliced jalapeños and green onions. And it’s #low-carb, #sugar-free and #keto so enjoy without the guilt!

Sauteed Zucchini

First cook your zucchini and garlic in some olive oil and set aside.

Sauteed Taco Beef

Next brown the ground beef, onions and jalapeños, drain any access grease, then return to the sauté pan along with the taco seasoning and some water and let simmer for about 10 minutes over low heat to let the flavors meld together.

Layer Tortillas

Then it’s time to build the casserole. Spread 1/4 of the enchilada sauce (I LOVE Harry + David brand..it comes packaged in a glass bottle so no tinny taste! And it’s made with vine-ripened fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, chili pepper, garlic, cumin, and New Mexico chiles) on the bottom of a large rectangular baking dish, and top with 1/3 of the tortillas.

Layer Zucchini

Next add 1/2 of the cooked zucchini and garlic mixture over the top.

Layer Taco Beef

Top with the cooked taco beef, onions, and jalapeños.

Layer Cheese And Sauce

Add 3/4 cup of the cheese on top of the meat, and pour 1/2 the enchilada sauce over the cheese.

Layer Zucchini and Beef

Repeat the process with the 1/3 tortillas, the rest of the zucchini and garlic mixture, taco beef mixture,

Top with Cheese

3/4 cup of cheese and 1/2 cup of sauce.

TopCheeseSauce

Add the final 1/3 tortillas on top of the casserole and pour the rest of the sauce over the top and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese; cover with foil.

Baked Dish

Pop this bad boy in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5-10 minutes until cheese is melty and gooey. Garnish with sliced jalapeños and sliced green onions. Let cool for about 5-10 minutes, then slice and serve immediately.

Cut into squares and serve

You can also add corn, black beans, pinto beans, tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream or whatever other veggies and toppings you desire.

Close up

Any way you serve it you’re gonna love it! Enjoy 🙂

Low Carb Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bake

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 6-8

Serving Size: 1-2 squares

This is a super easy and delicious cheesy beef enchilada casserole with mega layers of ground beef, zucchini, garlic, onions, low carb tortillas, enchilada sauce and gobs of gooey cheddar cheese, topped with sliced jalapeños and green onions. And it's low carb, sugar free and keto so enjoy without the guilt!

Ingredients

  • 8 medium low-carb tortillas, cut in half
  • cooking spray
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 small zucchini, cut into half moons
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 large onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh jalapeños, minced
  • 1 packet of taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce
  • 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 jalapeno, sliced, for garnish
  • 1 green onion, sliced thin, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a large casserole dish with cooking spray.
  2. Heat one tablespoon of oil over medium heat in a large saute pan. Add the zucchini and garlic and cook for about 5-6 minutes until soft. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Add additional tablespoon of olive oil in the pan and add the ground beef and onions. Cook for 6-8 minutes until cooked through and no longer pink. Drain the grease and return cooked beef and onions to the pan.
  4. Add the taco seasoning and water, and stir together, cooking on low heat for about 5-8 minutes. Remove from the heat.
  5. Spread 1/4 cup enchilada sauce over the bottom of the greased baking dish.
  6. Layer 1/3 tortillas over the sauce.
  7. Add 1/2 of the zucchini and garlic mixture over the top. Add 1/2 the meat mixture, then top with 3/4 cup of shredded cheese.
  8. Pour 1/2 cup enchilada sauce over the cheese.
  9. Repeat the process with 1/3 of the tortillas, the rest of the zucchini, the rest of the meat mixture and 3/4 cup of cheese. Top with 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce.
  10. Add the final 1/3 tortillas on top of the casserole; pour the remaining sauce over the top and and sprinkle on the rest of the cheese.
  11. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned.
  12. Sprinkle jalapeños and green onions over the top. Let casserole cool for 5-10 minutes.
  13. Slice and serve hot.

Notes

You can also add corn, black beans, pinto beans, tomatoes, cilantro or whatever other veggies and toppings you desire!

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/12/lowcarb-cheesy-beef-enchilada-bake/

Look at all that cheesy taco goodnessCut Casserole

Other recipes you might enjoy:

Game Day Beef Enchilada Casserole

Taco Casserole

Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

Parisian Pasta w/ Ham, Gruyere + Caramelized Onions

Parisian Pasta with Ham + Caramelized Onions

I was invited to participate in the Frick’s Quality Meats Blogger Recipe Challenge this year and decided to make this delicious Parisian Pasta with Ham, Gruyere and Caramelized Onions. 

Parisian Pasta with Ham + Caramelized Onions

This is a heavenly Parisian-style baked pasta dish made with a cheesy creamy Mornay sauce (a béchamel made with melted Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses), sweet caramelized onions, and delicious Frick’s Hickory Smoked Sliced Gourmet Ham, all baked into a pot of melty goodness, then topped with crunchy browned croissants and fresh chives and parsley.

Frick's Gourmet Ham

Frick’s Quality Meats chooses only the finest handpicked cuts of meat, cured with real cane sugar which are slow-roasted in small batches over American hardwood to lock in their sweet, smoky flavor. They have a great selection of delicious products including Bone-in Half Ham, Sliced Applewood Quarter Ham, Gourmet Sliced Boneless Ham, Shingled (sliced) Ham, Bologna, Sausages, Smoked Meat and Turkey Drums – delivering a full range of delicious flavors that can transform any recipe into an extravagant dish.

Cook Pasta

First cook your pasta according to package directions (about 1-2 mins less than recommended cooking time, al dente). Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Saute onions

Next, caramelize your onions by sautéing them in butter until golden,

Caramelized sweet onions

then add a pinch of salt and pepper and let them cook on low heat for about 30 minutes until caramelized, sweet and golden brown.

Frick's Gourmet Ham

Cut the ham into medium size lardons.

Shred cheeses

Shred the Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses.

make roux

Make your mornay sauce by first cooking some flour in butter and add milk, whisking in to make your roux.

Add cheeses

Add the Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses, some French grey sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and whisk together until you get a luscious creamy cheese sauce.

baked Parisian pasta

Spray a casserole dish with some cooking spray and start layering the pasta with caramelized onions and ham. Pour the cheese sauce over the casserole and mix together so sauce coats the pasta evenly, top with additional Gruyere and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a 375 degree oven for about 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Top with croissants and broil

Top with torn croissants, turn the oven up to a high broil and cook for about 2 minutes until the croissants are crunchy and browned (being careful not to burn!)

Parisian Pasta with Gruyere + Caramelized Onions

Top with minced chives and parsley, serve immediately. Pair this luscious baked dish with a light white crisp wine (Sauvignon or Sancerre) and a mixed greens salad with a Champagne-Dijon vinaigrette dressing. Perfect for brunch or a cozy Fall dinner!

Parisian Pasta with Gruyere and Caramelized Onions

Bon Appetit!

Parisian Pasta Bake w/ Ham, Gruyere + Caramelized Onions

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4-6

Serving Size: 1 cup

This is a heavenly Parisian-style baked pasta dish made with a cheesy creamy mornay sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and delicious Frick's cooked ham, baked into a pot of melty goodness, then topped with crunchy browned croissants and fresh chives and parsley. Perfectly paired with a light white crisp wine (Sauvignon or Sancerre) and a mixed greens salad with a champagne-dijon vinaigrette dressing.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces dried pasta (Trivelle, Rotini, Campanelle, or Cavatappi)
  • MORNAY SAUCE:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted premium butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or Fontina, Comte, Emmental)
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon French grey sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • CARAMELIZED ONIONS:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, sliced thin
  • Pinch of French grey sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • ---
  • 1 cup Frick's Cooked Ham, chopped into small lardons
  • 1 large croissant, torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley and chives, minced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water for 8 minutes (cook 1-2 minutes less than recommended package directions, al dente), drain, toss with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil and set aside).
  3. Make the Mornay Sauce:
  4. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for about 1 minute to make a roux, being careful not to burn or brown.
  5. Slowly add the milk, whisking occasionally, until you get a smooth sauce consistency.
  6. Add the garlic and simmer for about 5 minutes, remove smashed garlic clove.
  7. Stir in both of the cheeses, whisk until melted and you get a thick, creamy cheese sauce. Add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, to get a thinner sauce until thickness and consistency is to liking. You can also add more butter and flour (equal parts) to make the sauce thicker. Season with grey sea salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and reduce heat to low.
  8. Make the caramelized onions:
  9. Melt butter in a small saute pan over medium heat.
  10. Add the onions and cook until lightly browned, then turn the heat down to low, add salt and pepper, and slowly cook onions for about 30 minutes, until sweet and caramelized.
  11. Make the casserole:
  12. Grease a medium casserole dish with oil spray or butter.
  13. Add cooked pasta, top with cooked Frick's ham, caramelized onions and Mornay sauce. Stir together until sauce is coating all the pasta.
  14. Top with additional shredded Gruyere and Parmesan cheese and bake for 15-17 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  15. Turn oven up to a broil, add the torn croissants on top of the casserole, and broil on high for about 2 minutes until the croissants are browned and crunchy (be careful not to burn!)
  16. Remove casserole from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes on a trivet. Add the fresh chives and parsley, serve immediately.

Notes

I used Gruyere and Parmigaino-Reggiano cheese in this pasta dish but you can also substitute any good melty cheeses such as Comte, Fontina, Emmental or Edam, or White Cheddar. Serve with a mixed greens salad with a Champagne-Dijon vinaigrette dressing and a crisp French white wine like Sauvignon or Sancerre.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/10/parisian-pasta-w-ham-gruyere-caramelized-onions/

For more information on Frick’s Gourmet Ham, check out their website, Facebook, or Instagram

#fricks #smokedmeats #itsfrickingood

Note: This is a sponsored post in which I received product samples from the sponsor (Frick’s Quality Meats) in order to create an original recipe and blog post for the Blogger Challenge. All photos, recipes, text and opinions are my own.

Parisian Pasta with Ham + Caramelized Onions

Cheesy Baked Pasta w/ Sausage & Summer Veggies

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Ah, it’s almost the end of Summer and I keep thinking, where has it gone? Along with Summer comes lots of fresh veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms and yellow squash that I just can’t get enough of!

Colavita

I recently received a lovely care package from my client Colavita, who sent me some delicious pasta, sauces, olive oils and vinegars to sample, which inspired me to make this Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies. 

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

It’s a tasty and healthy twist on traditional Baked Ziti, using Colavita Fusilli pasta with sweet Italian sausage and lots of colorful summer veggies like zucchini, squash, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions and garlic. I sautéed everything in Colavita Extra Virgin olive oil with a splash of Colavita Chardonnay White Balsamic vinegar for some extra sweet and tangy flavor.

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

I used their Colavita Tomato Basil sauce mixed in to the pasta and veggies along with fresh oregano and basil. AND it has three (3!!) cheeses: ricotta, parmesan/asiago and mozzarella to make it super creamy and cheesy – all baked into a big pot of bubbly goodness.

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Look. At. This. Cheesy Baked Pasta Goodness. YUM.

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

It’s the perfect dish for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner – and is great served with a green salad and some crusty Italian bread (dipped in Colavita olive oil and vinegar of course!) Enjoy!

Cheesy Baked Pasta w/ Sausage and Summer Veggies

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 6-8

This is a tasty and healthy twist on traditional Baked Ziti, using Colavita Rotini pasta with Italian Sausage and lots of colorful summer veggies like zucchini, squash, mushrooms, onions and garlic! It also features Colavita Tomato Basil sauce mixed with three cheeses: ricotta, parmesan/asiago and mozzarella to make it super creamy and cheesy baked into a big pot of bubbly goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served with a green salad and crusty Italian bread.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Colavita Fusilli pasta, uncooked
  • 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, ground
  • 2 tablespoons Colavita Extra Virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Colavita Chardonnay White Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup yellow squash, chopped
  • 1 cup zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-16 ounce jar Colavita Tomato Basil sauce
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan/Asiago cheese, grated
  • 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (add more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (add more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions (about 9 minutes for al dente), drain.
  2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Cook sausage until no longer pink, drain fat and set aside.
  4. Add additional tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, and add squash, zucchini, mushrooms and bell pepper. Saute for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute or two. Add the cooked sausage back into the pan.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce, 1/2 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan/Asiago cheese and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
  6. Meanwhile, add the ricotta cheese to a mixing bowl and stir in beaten egg, fresh herbs, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.
  7. Place the cooked pasta in a large pot and add the sausage-veggie-tomato sauce mixture, stirring well. Fold in the ricotta-egg-herbs mixture until thoroughly combined.
  8. Spoon the pasta mixture into an 8x8 square glass or ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan/Asiago cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes, serve hot with a green salad and crusty Italian bread.

Notes

You can also substitute Colavita penne, shells, farfalle or ziti for the fusilli pasta.

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https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2016/08/cheesy-baked-pasta-w-sausage-summer-veggies/

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Colavita has a great line of Italian gourmet food, olive oils, vinegars, pastas,  condiments and other specialty foods, which makes them one of my favorite brands for quality Italian cooking.

Check out their Facebook page, Twitter page, Pinterest and Instagram pages for more great recipes and cooking ideas!

Note: I received complimentary products from Colavita but was not compensated for this post. All photos, copy, recipes and opinions are my own. Please do not share, distribute or use any content without my permission.

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole for Game Day!

 

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole

 

It’s finally Fall (Yay!) and football season is in full force which means fun tailgating and parties with friends mixed with lots of delicious football party food and drinks! My favorite time of year.

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole

I’ve partnered with Mission Foods to create a delicious Game Day recipe for serving a crowd with their awesome flour tortillas, and I present to you my Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole.

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole

 

It’s made with ground beef and taco seasoning, onions, garliccorn, jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, beef broth and LOTS of cheese, all baked in layers of spicy, cheesy, ooey-gooey goodness with the flour tortillas in a 9-inch pie pan. Then it’s served cut into wedges and topped with some fresh green onions. You can also serve it with some sour cream and cilantro for extra garnish, if you like, on the side.

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole

 

I love making casseroles and one-pot dishes in the Fall, and especially for parties with friends because they’re easy to make and easy to transport and serve, and they are usually a huge hit on the food table! This one will disappear fast so you might want to double the recipe for a big crowd – trust me!

Group8_Soft_Flour_Tortillas

I’m also hosting a giveaway for my readers to win 2 packs of Mission Foods Tortillas – all you need to do is leave a comment and your email below telling me how you would use the tortillas to make a delicious recipe for your Fall Football party! A winner will be chosen at random.

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole

Hope you enjoy my super yum recipe and enter for a chance to win tortillas to make your party more delicious and fun too!

Mission Foods Football Party Food

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole

Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole for Game Day!

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 6-8

Serving Size: 1 wedge

This Beef Enchilada Tortilla Casserole is a super easy and tasty dish to make for Football season! Made with Mission Foods flour tortillas, all layered with a spicy enchilada beef, mixed with onions, garlic, corn, tomatoes, broth and jalapeño and lots of cheese in the layers and on top! Garnished with scallions, sour cream and cilantro if desired...and DIG IN!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup petite diced tomatoes and juice (or 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce)
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 jalapeno, chopped
  • 4 large Mission Foods flour tortillas
  • 1 6-ounce package shredded Mexican Blend cheese (Colby, Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
  • 1-2 scallions, sliced, for garnish
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, for garnish (optional)
  • 2-3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion to pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned and crumbled.
  3. In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter and sauce the garlic for 1 minute until lightly golden, sprinkle with flour and stir, cooking for 30 seconds.
  4. Add broth, taco seasoning, tomatoes, corn and jalapeños to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
  6. Add 1 1/2 cups of the tomato-corn-jalapeno mixture to the cooked ground beef and onions in the large saute pan, mixing together and reserving the rest for the top layer of the casserole.
  7. In a 9-inch pie plate, place 1 tortilla on the bottom. Top with 1 cup of the beef mixture, and sprinkle with a layer of the shredded cheese. Repeat layers 2 more times, ending with the 4th tortilla on top.
  8. Spread the reserved tomato mixture over the tortilla and top with the rest of the shredded cheese.
  9. Bake at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
  10. Let cool slightly, then cut into wedges and serve with sliced green onions, and sour cream and cilantro (if desired).

Notes

You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. For a large crowd, I suggest doubling the recipe to make two casseroles as this one will disappear fast!

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STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOS

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Disclosure: I’m required to disclose a sponsored partnership between our site and Mission Foods. I have been compensated in exchange for this post in the form of payment, product or experiences. #spon

 

Moussaka and Memories of Greece

Greek Moussaka

Classic Greek Moussaka is one of the most popular Greek dishes, and a staple “comfort food” and main course meal in Greece (as Lasagna is in Italy). This tasty Greek dish is a culinary delight to those who sample it for the first time, and I experienced it when I went on a trip to the Greek Islands a few years ago for my birthday.

oia greece santorini

Some friends and I were in Santorini, a beautiful island in Greece in the Aegean Sea with pastel colors and gorgeous views, eating at a restaurant in Oia called Pelekanos, nestled up in the hills overlooking the sea.

Pelekanos

The sun was setting, the relaxing music was playing softly in the background and the atmosphere was just perfect. The waiters graciously came over and attended to our every need, and made our dinner a spectacular night with their attention to detail not only in the food and wine, but our dining experience overall.

waiter

The table was elegantly set, with fine china, white tablecloths, crystal glasses and silverware with beautiful flowers as a centerpiece. The waiters filled our glasses with water and wine, lit the candles on the table and gave us recommendations of the specials and enlightened us on some of their popular Greek dishes on the menu.

Fava Bean Dip

As we joyously dined, they quickly cleared our plates when we were finished eating, filled our glasses when they were half full, and stood by the table a few feet away with a watchful, attentive eye, to let us know they were on stand by for service, but just far enough away to not be obtrusive on our dining experience.

table setting

They always had a smile on their faces and let us stay at the table long enough to enjoy our dinner, engage in great conversation, take photos of our food and engage in the gorgeous bright red sunset that was going down over the ocean as we sat and viewed it in awe. I felt like I was sitting in a little piece of heaven up there and never wanted to leave.

Sunset

One of the most delicious dishes I ever tasted was the Moussaka, which I ordered that night. It was a perfect mixture of spicy meat at the bottom, layered with potatoes and tender eggplant, and tons of béchamel and gooey cheese on top. The vegetables were steaming as I dug into this gorgeous meat and vegetable pie – my mouth watered at the sight and smell of it. I became so obsessed with this luscious Greek dish that I decided I needed to make it for my big Greek birthday party when I got home from vacation.

moussaka

Moussaka can be made in many variations, but the classic recipe uses layers of eggplant, potatoes, a spicy meat and tomato sauce with a touch of cinnamon and a rich and delicious béchamel sauce and bubbly kefalotyri cheese on top. Other variations are Moussaka with zucchini or artichokes instead of eggplant, ground lamb instead of ground beef, or vegetarian-style with zucchini, eggplant and potatoes without the meat. Either way you make it, with its warm and rich flavors and gooey cheese you’ll be hooked.

I made this recipe with zucchini and potatoes, and combined ground lamb with ground beef together. The combination of all the spices from the meat and seasonings soak into the vegetables and once you layer some creamy béchamel and gooey cheese on top, you’ve got yourself a delicious heartwarming dish. Be careful to pat dry the vegetables though before layering in the baking dish, as you don’t want the liquids to make the Moussaka too watery as they are cooked down in the oven.

You’ll need a lot of time and kitchen space to make this dish, and if you’re cooking for a crowd, you’ll be safe to double the recipe and make two large rectangular baking dishes of it, as it won’t last long. The flavors in this dish really improve if you 
make it a day ahead. It’s also a very filling dish, so you may want to serve it as the main course, and accompany it with a Greek Salad, some Stuffed Grape Leaves and Tzaziki for a light side dish along with some Garlic Lemon Hummus and grilled pita. Serve with a red Greek wine and a shot of Ouzo as an aperitif.

Oia Santorini
Oia Santorini

Moussaka and Memories of Greece

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Yield: 6-8

Ingredients

  • Zucchini/Eggplant Potato Mixture:
  • 1/2 cup Greek olive oil
  • 3 large zucchini (or eggplants), sliced
  • 3 large potatoes, sliced
  • Meat Sauce:
  • 3 onions, chopped fine
  • 4 cloves or garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/2 cup red Greek wine
  • 1 (28 ounce) can of tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • Kosher salt
  • Fresh ground black pepper
  • Bechamel Sauce:
  • 1/4 pound butter
  • 6 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 quart of whole milk
  • 4 eggs; beaten until frothy
  • 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup fine bread crumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Zucchini/Eggplant Potato Mixture:
  2. Cut the zucchini/eggplant and potatoes into slices about 1/2 inch thick. If using eggplant instead of zucchini, peel the eggplant first. Brown the vegetables quickly in 1/4 cup of the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until lightly golden brown, transfer to paper towels to drain and set aside.
  3. Meat Sauce:
  4. Heat the remaining ¼ cup of oil in the same skillet and cook the onions until they are?golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground meat, tomato paste, cinnamon, cayenne, and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Pour off excess fat through a strainer and return meat mixture to the pan. Then add the wine, cooking until almost completely evaporated, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the tomato puree to the meat mixture and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low and simmer over low heat;?stirring frequently, until all the liquid has been absorbed, about 30 minutes. Stir in the parsley and oregano and season with salt and pepper. Remove the?mixture from heat.
  6. Make the Bechamel Sauce:
  7. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and heat a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  8. Make the white sauce by melting the butter?and blending in the flour, stirring with a wire whisk until smooth. Meanwhile, bring the milk to a boil and add it gradually to the butter-flour mixture,? stirring constantly. When the mixture is thickened and smooth, remove ?it from the heat. Cook slightly and stir in the beaten eggs, nutmeg, lemon zest and ricotta.
  9. Assemble the casserole:
  10. Grease an 11x16-inch baking dish or casserole dish and sprinkle the bottom lightly with?breadcrumbs.
  11. Arrange alternate layers of the zucchini/eggplant and potatoes and meat sauce?in the pan, sprinkling each layer with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
  12. Pour the bechamel sauce over the top and sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top. Bake 1 hour, or until top is golden.
  13. Remove from the oven and cool 20 to 30 minutes before serving.
  14. Top with additional chopped fresh parsley. Cut into squares and serve.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2015/04/moussaka-and-memories-of-greece/

  • Want to meet purveyors who are making a difference with their customers? Check out BonAppetit.com’s “Out of the Kitchen”, an ongoing exploration of the relationships that build and sustain the food industry. See how hyper-local food markets operate and how their focus on quality and service keep customers coming back for more.

 

Tequila, Sunsets and a Mexican Feast in San Diego (Story + Recipes)

San Diego Sunset
San Diego Sunset

I recently got back from an amazing trip to San Diego – one so lovely and rejuvenating that the sunsets are burned into my brain, leaving me wishing for more of the bright colorful skies, fresh air, palm trees swaying in the wind and cool sand between my toes.

The San Diego Crew
The San Diego Crew

This is a fun trip that started last year with an amazing group of friends and has now turned into a yearly tradition.

Beach House
Beach House

Seven of my friends and I rented a gorgeous beach house on Mission Beach in San Diego –

Beach House Room
Beach House Room

Our house had two levels, two kitchens, five bedrooms, a beach front patio, two grills, plus another two patios outside,

Upstairs
Upstairs

all with stunning views of the ocean from every angle and every room.

Windows
Windows

It all started as a birthday celebration trip for my friend Suzanne last year and now with another birthday girl, my dear friend Linda. Plus five other cool cats I’m proud to be friends with: Paula, Cris, Jackie, Janis and Andrew. What a crew.

Kristen and Paula
Kristen and Paula

great friends..

Janis-Paula-Suzanne
Janis-Paula-Suzanne

great times…

Andrew-Cris
Andrew-Cris

enjoying each other’s company with a Corona or two…

Mission Beach
Mission Beach

taking in the stunning views..

Mission Beach Boardwalk
Mission Beach Boardwalk

people watching on the boardwalk..

Seagull at Dusk
Seagull at Dusk

and making new friends.

Kristen-Paula-Linda
Kristen-Paula-Linda

There’s something about California that makes me feel relaxed, happy, and in a totally different world than the one I live in New York City.

San Diego
San Diego

No crazy traffic or cars honking, just beautiful beaches and cool, relaxed people up early for morning jogs and bike rides, swaying palm trees,

Magenta Sunsets
Magenta Sunsets

hazy blue and pink sunrises, and breathtaking bright magenta and orange sunsets that will blow you away.

Beach Houses
Beach Houses

The boardwalk is lined with colorful pastel houses and bungalows that look like Jordan almonds lined up in the sand.

Sand Volleyball players
Sand Volleyball players

We took daily walks down the beach, watching the surfers and volleyball players,

Surf's Up
Surf’s Up

catching some rays down by Crystal Pier while gazing out into the turquoise blue water.

Foodie Excursions
Foodie Excursions

To satisfy our foodie fix, we grabbed a fish taco and a Bloody Mary (or two) at the little beach side cafes and food stands on the boardwalk while soaking in the sunshine.

Patio Surfing
Patio Surfing

We took advantage of our gorgeous views and drank plenty of tequila and margaritas out on our beach front patio playing penny can, laughing and telling stories,

Frolicking on the beach
Frolicking on the beach

and frolicking on the beach at sunset like fools.

The Bar
The Bar

With a large group of eight people that all love to eat and drink, we spent over $1500 on our grocery bill and stocking our bar so we could take advantage of our two kitchens and grills and had massive amounts of cooking and eating (and drinking) going on each day. I swore after this trip I would never eat again – but that didn’t last long.

Jackie's Famous Eggs
Jackie’s Famous Eggs

Jackie made her Famous Eggs with Sausage, Mushrooms and Cheese, served with my Spicy Fried Potatoes, toasted bagels and plenty of bacon and mimosas to go around and feed the masses. Best Breakfast EVER.

Sunset Grilled Feast
Sunset Grilled Feast

Cris was our designated grill master, who made us a delicious feast at sunset with heaps of tender grilled steak,  shrimp and veggies – love those baby peppers on the grill!

Cooking up a storm
Cooking up a storm

Paula made us a yummy Chicken dish stuffed with Prosciutto, Sage and Provolone which I gladly assisted with while multi-tasking by drinking my Sauv Blanc with a HUGE mitt (just in case that wine glass gets too hot – LOL).

IMG_3376

She also made us a Flaky Egg Bake for Suzanne’s birthday breakfast – with layers of buttery phyllo dough filled with sausage, eggs, cheese, peppers, mushrooms, onions and baked into a yummy casserole fit for a Queen (ahem, Suzanne..)

Andrew's Chicken Marsala
Andrew’s Chicken Marsala

Janice and Andrew made their delicious Italian lunch of Caprese Salad made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil and balsamic vinegar with prosciutto, olives and fresh Italian bread, accompanied by a few bottles of great wine. They also made a delicious Italian meal of Chicken Marsala over pasta with fresh parmesan cheese, parsley and Sauteed Asparagus and Brussels Sprouts for our last night in town – totally delicious and gone in five seconds FLAT.

Mexican Feast
Mexican Feast

My designated meal was to make a feast for Mexican night – when i say feast, i mean FEAST – we had enough food to feed the entire Mission Beach strip and enough leftovers that we seriously thought about donating it to a homeless person so we didn’t have to throw it out if we didn’t finish it all up the next day!

Guacamole
Guacamole

My Mexican menu included fresh Pico de Gallo, fresh Guacamole with lots of cilantro and lime and some jalapeno,

Tequila Lime Shrimp
Tequila Lime Shrimp

Grilled Marinated Steak with Lemon and Herbs and Sauteed Lime and Tequila Shrimp to go with the tortillas for tacos and burritos,

Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Chicken Enchilada Casserole

I also made a cheesy baked Chicken Enchilada Casserole,

Mexican Sides
Mexican Sides

Red Mexican Rice, Tortillas, Sour Cream, Warm Queso Cheese Dip, Hot Sauce and PLENTY of Margaritas to go around for at least three more days.

Pool sharks
Pool sharks

I think we all fell into a serious food coma by Night #3 and decided to kick it up a notch and wake ourselves up with some music and a few games of pool after dinner, and even some video games with the help of services as overwatch boost.

Stunningly Spooky Sunset
Stunningly Spooky Sunset

After all the eating and feasting, a breathtakingly spooky view appeared when the sun went down. We missed the Green Flash though – which apparently happens for a split second as soon as the sun goes over the horizon line and sinks into the abyss.

Night Out on the Town
Night Out on the Town

Jackie, Cris and I headed out to the bars for some debauchery and drinking activities at the local bars, involving Cinnamon Whiskey shots (ordered by Cris)..FIRE IN THE HOLE! 🙂

Breathtaking bask in the glow
Breathtaking bask in the glow

My favorite moment of the entire trip was basking in the glow of that big orange fireball in the sky one evening, dreaming of the day I can return to this lovely, lovely place. Until then, I’ve had my fill of tequila and Mexican feasts to last me another year. The sunsets? I never get tired of those – especially when they look like this.

California Guacamole with a Kick

Ingredients

  • 6 avocados
  • Juice from 2 limes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 purple onion, minced
  • 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 2 jalapeno peppers, minced fine, stems and seeds removed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Kosher Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
  • Dash of hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Cut avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh into a large mixing bowl and squeeze lime juice on immediately (to prevent the avocado from oxidation and browning). Mash avocado well with a fork until slightly smooth but still a little bit chunky.
  2. Add garlic, onion, tomatoes, jalapenos, cumin, salt and pepper, and hot sauce. Adjust seasonings to taste.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap tightly and let sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or more to let the flavors meld.
  4. Serve with tortillas, chips, veggies or crackers with fresh made salsa (tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno, salt and pepper) and plenty of margaritas to go around.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2013/02/tequila-sunsets-and-a-mexican-feast-in-san-diego-a-true-story-recipes/

Sauteed Tequila Lime Shrimp

Prep Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Yield: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup tequila, divided in half
  • Juice from 2 fresh limes (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chile flakes
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, deveined and seeded, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil for marinade, plus 1 tablespoon for cooking
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and drain shrimp, and place in a medium bowl.
  2. Mix together 1/2 cup of tequila, lime juice, cayenne pepper, chile flakes, chili powder, jalapeno pepper, and olive oil in a separate bowl and pour over the shrimp. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Drain and discard marinade off shrimp in a colander or with a slotted spoon and set shrimp aside.
  3. Heat a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and heat for a minute or so. Add additional 1/2 cup of tequila to the saute pan (with pan removed off the burner to avoid flames!).
  4. Add 1/2 of the marinated shrimp to the heated saute pan and cook for about 2 minutes. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside. Add the rest of the shrimp to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes until pink.
  5. Add two tablespoons of butter to the saute pan and return first batch of shrimp, adding it to the shrimp in the pan and saute while tossing the pan for another 2 minutes or so. Sprinkle salt and pepper into the shrimp to taste and mix through for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  6. Serve the shrimp on a platter with the tequila-lime-butter sauce on top with a side of tortillas and all the dressings: guacamole, cilantro, hot sauce, sour cream, rice to make tacos or burritos.

Notes

Recipe inspired by Oprah.com

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2013/02/tequila-sunsets-and-a-mexican-feast-in-san-diego-a-true-story-recipes/

Layered Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Yield: 8-10

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 large sweet onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • 8 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds), poached and shredded
  • 1 32-ounce container of chicken stock (for poaching chicken)
  • 2 cans of red enchilada sauce
  • 9 flour tortillas (large burrito size)
  • 2 cups of shredded Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
  • Sour cream, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a large saute pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, cayenne, salt and pepper and hot sauce. Saute for about 5 minutes until onion is soft and golden. Add minced garlic and saute for another 2 minutes. Remove onion-garlic mixture from heat and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. To poach chicken breasts, heat chicken stock in a large Dutch oven or high-sided saute pan and cook chicken breasts in the stock, covered, for approximately 10-15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let chicken sit in the pot (still covered) for another 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove chicken breasts from the stock on to a platter and let cool for a few minutes. Shred the chicken with 2 forks and add to the onion-garlic mixture in to the mixing bowl.
  5. Spread 1/2 of the enchilada sauce from one can on the bottom of a rectangular glass casserole dish. Place three tortillas over the sauce, overlapping.
  6. Top the layer of tortillas with 1/4 of the chicken-onion mixture, spreading evenly over the casserole dish. Top with 1/4 of the crushed tomatoes and 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
  7. Repeat 3 times until you have four layers and have used up all the enchilada sauce, tortillas, chicken-onion mixture, crushed tomatoes and shredded cheese. (Like making a Mexican Lasagna!)
  8. Place casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5-10 minutes. Cut into squares and serve with chopped cilantro and sour cream.

Notes

Can also make casserole with ground beef or steak, and it can be made in a circular or oval casserole baking dish rather than rectangular if preferred.

Recipe inspired by Williams-Sonoma.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2013/02/tequila-sunsets-and-a-mexican-feast-in-san-diego-a-true-story-recipes/

Spanish Red Rice with Jalapenos and Cilantro

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded, deveined and minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 sweet yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cups of long grain rice
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 1 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
  • Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
  • Cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and saute jalapenos, garlic and onion about 5 minutes in a large saute pan.
  2. Add the rice to the saute pan and cook, stirring often, until rice is browned slightly another 5 minutes.
  3. Pour water, chicken stock and crushed tomatoes into the pan and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes until rice has absorbed all the liquid and is cooked through.
  5. Remove rice from heat, uncover and fluff with a fork. Add rice to a large serving bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro for serving.

Notes

Feel free to add some fresh cooked corn, red or green peppers or peas to the rice for additional flavors.

Recipe inspired by Saveur.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2013/02/tequila-sunsets-and-a-mexican-feast-in-san-diego-a-true-story-recipes/

All photographs, copy and recipes are copyrighted by Kristen Hess/The Artful Gourmet © 2010-2013. Please do not share, use or distribute this content without granted permission from me. Thanks!