Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Beef enchilada casserole is a perfect blend of bold Mexican flavors, tender beef, melted cheese, and rich enchilada sauce. It’s an easier and more convenient way to enjoy traditional enchiladas without the hassle of rolling each one individually.

This recipe takes all the best elements of classic beef enchiladas and layers them into a comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

Packed with seasoned ground beef, corn tortillas, gooey cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce, this beef enchilada casserole is a meal your whole family will love. Plus, it’s easily

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onions and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced green chiles to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Spread the Enchilada Sauce: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
3. Layer the Tortillas and Beef: Start by placing a layer of corn tortillas (half or quarter pieces) on top of the sauce. Next, spread a portion of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers (tortillas, beef mixture, cheese) until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
4. Pour Over the Sauce: Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the casserole, making sure it covers the entire surface.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crisp.
2. Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving, so it’s easier to cut into slices.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Add Toppings: Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado, or sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for the Best Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Use Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas hold up better than flour tortillas in this casserole since they won’t become soggy as easily. If you prefer flour tortillas, make sure to lightly toast them before layering.
• Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: The cheesy layer is key to a satisfying casserole. You can use a Mexican blend, cheddar, or even Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
• Make it Spicier: If you love spice, use spicy enchilada sauce, add extra diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in some chili powder to the beef mixture for more heat.
• Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, olives, or refried beans for additional texture and flavor.
• Let it Rest: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving makes it easier to cut into squares and allows the layers to set.

Variations of Beef Enchilada Casserole

Chicken Enchilada Casserole:

• Swap out the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter but equally delicious casserole. You can follow the same layering process with enchilada sauce, tortillas, and cheese.

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole:

• For a meat-free version, omit the beef and increase the amount of beans, corn, and veggies. You can also add sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to make it hearty.

Creamy Enchilada Casserole:

• For a creamier version, mix 1 cup of sour cream or cream cheese into the beef mixture before layering it into the casserole. This adds a rich, smooth texture to the filling.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 6g

How to Store and Reheat

Storing Leftovers:

• Place any leftover enchilada casserole in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Reheating:

• Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place the entire casserole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.

Freezing:

• You can freeze beef enchilada casserole by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

Conclusion

This beef enchilada casserole recipe is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The savory beef, melty cheese, and spicy enchilada sauce come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—so feel free to make it your own!

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
   Yes, but be aware that flour tortillas may become slightly soggy during baking. Toasting them before layering can help reduce this.
3. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?
   Absolutely! If you have a homemade enchilada sauce recipe, feel free to use it for even more flavor. Just make sure you have about 2 cups for the casserole.
4. What can I serve with beef enchilada casserole?
   Serve it with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also add tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole for extra crunch.
5. Can I make this casserole spicy?
   Yes, you can make it spicier by adding extra jalapeños, using a spicy enchilada sauce, or mixing in some hot sauce or chili powder to the beef mixture.

Yield: 6

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Print

Beef enchilada casserole is a perfect blend of bold Mexican flavors, tender beef, melted cheese, and rich enchilada sauce. It’s an easier and more convenient way to enjoy traditional enchiladas without the hassle of rolling each one individually. This recipe takes all the best elements of classic beef enchiladas and layers them into a comforting casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (or cheddar cheese)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   
   Cook the Beef:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
   Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef and cook for 2-3 more minutes until softened.
   
2. Add Seasonings and Beans:
   Stir in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   
3. Layer the Casserole:
   Spread a small amount of the beef mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   Arrange a layer of tortilla quarters over the beef mixture, then spread another layer of the beef mixture on top.
   Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers (tortilla, beef, cheese) until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
   
4. Bake:
   Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
   
5. Serve:
   Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
   Serve topped with sour cream, chopped cilantro, or other favorite toppings.

Notes

Tortilla Options: You can use either flour or corn tortillas based on your preference. Corn tortillas will give the dish a more authentic enchilada taste.

Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or olives to customize the casserole.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.