Beef Enchilada Casserole

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. With its rich layers of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, this casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal. Not only does it come together quickly, but it also offers a satisfying blend of flavors that will impress your guests.

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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
• With Fresh Toppings
• On a Bed of Greens
• As Individual Portions
• 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 make Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
• What toppings go well with Beef Enchilada Casserole?
• Can I customize the ingredients in my Beef Enchilada Casserole?
• How do I prevent my casserole from becoming soggy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – You can have this dish ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one baking dish.
• Flavorful Layers – The combination of beef, beans, and cheeses creates a hearty meal packed with taste.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it as a main dish or pair it with sides like rice or salad for a complete meal.
• Easy to Customize – Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Beef Enchilada Casserole, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet – Essential for browning the beef and mixing in flavors before layering.
• Baking Dish – A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easy.
• Knife and Cutting Board – Necessary for chopping onions and garlic efficiently.

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.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

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

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Sauce

To the skillet:
1. Add the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

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

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place in your preheated oven:
– Bake for about 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned on top.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from oven:
– Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into servings.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole!

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Guacamole: Homemade or store-bought guacamole brings a rich, buttery flavor that complements the casserole nicely.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, fresh jalapeños provide a crunchy texture and spicy kick.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Serving the casserole on a bed of mixed greens offers a fresh contrast and adds nutrients.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice is an excellent base that pairs well with the rich flavors of the casserole.

As Individual Portions

• Personal Dishes: Divide the casserole into individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch. Perfect for gatherings!
• Taco Bowls: Serve in taco bowls made from baked tortillas for an edible container that’s both tasty and appealing.

How to Perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole

Making the perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Bold Seasoning: Make sure to season your beef mixture well. The right balance of spices enhances the flavors significantly.
• Layering Technique: Layering ingredients properly helps achieve even cooking and prevents sogginess in tortillas.
• Cheese Variety: Using different cheese blends like cheddar and Monterey Jack adds depth of flavor and texture.
• Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.

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Best Side Dishes for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Pairing sides with your Beef Enchilada Casserole can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad with corn, lime, and cheese, offering sweetness to balance the savory casserole.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans make a classic accompaniment that complements Mexican flavors beautifully.
3. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides an excellent side that helps soak up extra sauce.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa create a delightful contrast in textures.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables add color, nutrients, and smoky flavor that pairs well with enchiladas.
6. Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad garnished with lime juice offers freshness and balances heartiness of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Enchilada Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using stale tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas hold up better and provide a great texture. Opt for recently made or store-bought tortillas for the best results.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef too long can lead to dryness. Cook just until browned and drain excess fat before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can leave your casserole bland. Make sure to add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Not layering correctly: Layering is key in a casserole. Ensure you spread the beef mixture and cheeses evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for better slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beef Enchilada Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Enchilada Casserole

• To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled.
• Cover tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Portion out servings on a plate. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: For individual servings, place in a skillet over low heat. Cover and stir occasionally until warm.

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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 hearty meal.

Can I make Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add extra baking time if it’s chilled.

What toppings go well with Beef Enchilada Casserole?

You can top your casserole with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado slices, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out meats according to your preference.

How do I prevent my casserole from becoming soggy?

Ensure that you use fresh tortillas and avoid overloading on sauce. Layering helps maintain structure too.

Final Thoughts

Beef Enchilada Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice levels. This recipe makes a comforting dinner option that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try tonight!

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