Beef Enchilada Casserole

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole brings together layers of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheese for a comforting meal. In just 40 minutes, you can serve up a hearty dish that will please everyone at the table. Its bold flavors and easy preparation make it a standout choice for busy families or casual get-togethers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole:
• For Garnish:
• How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
• Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Sauce
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• Step 6: Rest and Serve
• How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Add Fresh Toppings
• Pair with a Salad
• Serve with Rice or Beans
• How to Perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Reheating Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?
• Can I use different types of meat?
• How do I make this Beef Enchilada Casserole vegetarian?
• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
• How do I customize my Beef Enchilada Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful Layers: Each bite is packed with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and spicy enchilada sauce for an explosion of taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as is or easily customizable with your favorite toppings and sides.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This Beef Enchilada Casserole is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Beef Enchilada Casserole, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet or large frying pan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for browning the beef evenly while adding flavor.
• Baking dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch dish allows ample room for layering ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a hearty one-pan dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes. Packed with layers of bold flavors, including seasoned ground beef, red enchilada sauce, black beans, corn tortillas, and plenty of cheese, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any night of the week.

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley

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How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or lightly coat it with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Cook until the beef is browned and there’s no pink remaining.
3. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Sauce

To the skillet:
1. Stir in the enchilada sauce, drained diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow all flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish:
1. Lay down 4 corn tortillas at the bottom, slightly overlapping if needed.
2. Spread half of the beef mixture over these tortillas evenly.
3. Sprinkle half of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top.
4. Add another layer of 4 corn tortillas followed by the remaining beef mixture.
5. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cheeses on top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from oven:
1. Let your casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Optionally garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole!

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

Serving Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Guacamole: This avocado-based dip complements the spices in the casserole perfectly.
• Salsa: Fresh salsa brings a zesty kick that elevates the meal.

Pair with a Salad

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad provides a crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.
• Avocado and Tomato Salad: A light salad with ripe avocados and juicy tomatoes adds freshness to your plate.

Serve with Rice or Beans

• Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice infused with spices makes for a hearty side.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans pair well and enhance the Mexican theme of the meal.

How to Perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole

Creating the perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
• Layer Strategically: Proper layering of tortillas, beef, and cheese ensures even cooking and melting.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more chili powder or jalapeños based on your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco can add unique flavors.
• Top with Extra Cheese: For a gooey, cheesy finish, sprinkle an additional layer of cheese before baking.

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Best Side Dishes for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Beef Enchilada Casserole pairs well with several side dishes that can complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice dish is a classic accompaniment.
2. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to your meal.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad combining black beans, corn, and lime dressing can enhance the overall dish.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun starter or side.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection bring a smoky flavor that pairs well with enchiladas.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Bold Ingredients: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always use precise measurements for best results.
• Bold Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Aim for just browned, then drain any excess fat.
• Bold Skipping the Layering: Layering is key to achieving the right texture and flavor balance. Don’t skip layers of tortillas, beef, and cheese.
• Bold Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Bold Using Low-Quality Tortillas: Poor-quality tortillas can break apart easily. Choose sturdy corn tortillas for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Wrap tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on a plate in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a layered dish made with ground beef, tortillas, cheese, and enchilada sauce baked together for a flavorful meal.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without losing flavor.

How do I make this Beef Enchilada Casserole vegetarian?

Replace the beef with black beans or lentils and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

How do I customize my Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as jalapeños, sour cream, or different types of cheese for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight meal. With options to customize and make ahead, it’s perfect for families or gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy all the flavors packed into this comforting dish!