Incredible Beef Enchilada Casserole has been my go-to for years when I need a guaranteed win. I remember the first time I made it for a potluck; the aromas of seasoned beef and warm tortillas filled my kitchen, and I just knew it was going to be a hit. It’s so wonderfully cheesy and satisfying, making it the perfect comfort food. This easy Beef Enchilada Casserole truly delivers on flavor without all the fuss of rolling individual enchiladas. If you’re looking for a fantastic ground beef enchilada casserole that will impress everyone, you’ve found it! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Best Beef Enchilada Casserole
This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:
- Incredible Flavor: It’s packed with savory seasoned beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese.
- Quick Prep Time: You can have this assembled and ready for the oven in about 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this comforting, cheesy goodness. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!
- Versatile: This delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.
- Easy to Customize: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s the perfect dish to warm you up and satisfy those comfort food cravings.
Beef Enchilada Casserole Ingredients
Gathering the right Beef Enchilada Casserole ingredients is the first step to this amazing dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef – I like to use 80/20 for the best flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped – about 1 cup, this adds a nice sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory aroma and taste.
- 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce – choose mild or medium, depending on your preference!
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed – these add a lovely texture and protein boost.
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained – for a touch of sweetness and color.
- 10 corn tortillas – they form the delicious layers of our casserole.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – or a Mexican blend for extra flavor!
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – for that classic enchilada warmth.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – adds an earthy, savory note.
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – a little kick to round things out.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional) – for a pop of freshness.
How to Make Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole
Making this easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is a breeze, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is just heavenly. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comforting dish comes together!
- Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor to the first layer.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, brown 1 pound ground beef over medium heat. Add 1 small onion, chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté until the beef is cooked through and the onion is tender and fragrant.
- Step 3: Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their delicious scents.
- Step 4: Mix in 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce, 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed, and 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained. Stir everything together until well combined. This is the heart of your flavorful filling.
- Step 5: Arrange 5 corn tortillas in the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly to create a base. Spoon half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla layer. Sprinkle generously with 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 6: Add another layer of 5 corn tortillas. Top with the remaining beef mixture, spreading it out evenly. Finish with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The layers create the perfect texture for this Beef Enchilada Casserole bake.
- Step 7: Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer of cheese. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. The final Beef Enchilada Casserole bake will have a beautiful, saucy finish.
- Step 8: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Step 9: Carefully remove the aluminum foil. Continue to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The golden-brown cheese is a sign that your Beef Enchilada Casserole bake is ready!
- Step 10: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it set, making it easier to serve neat portions. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like!
Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole
Elevate your Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole with these simple tricks for a truly outstanding dish:
- For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast your corn tortillas in a dry skillet or oven before assembling. This prevents them from becoming too mushy.
- Don’t skip draining the excess grease from the ground beef. This keeps the casserole from becoming oily and ensures a cleaner taste.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning in the beef mixture before adding the tortillas. You want a robust flavor profile from the start.
- If you want a really gooey, cheesy casserole, consider mixing some of the shredded cheese into the beef mixture itself before layering.
What’s the secret to perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole?
The secret to a perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ensuring your beef mixture is well-seasoned and using good quality enchilada sauce are key. A truly cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole also benefits from a good blend of cheeses and not being shy with the cheese layers! For more recipe inspiration, check out our full recipe collection.
Can I make Layered Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can assemble your Layered Beef Enchilada Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meals, consider our Turkey Meatloaf Recipe.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Quick Beef Enchilada Casserole?
To avoid common pitfalls with a Quick Beef Enchilada Casserole, first, don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef, as it will steam instead of brown. Second, ensure your enchilada sauce is flavorful; a bland sauce will result in a bland casserole. Finally, allow the casserole to rest after baking so it holds its shape when served. For more tips on cooking, you might find resources on cooking ground beef helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole
This delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole is already a complete meal, but serving it with a few simple sides truly elevates it into the ultimate comfort food Beef Enchilada Casserole experience. I love to pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a zesty lime vinaigrette. The crisp, cool greens are a perfect contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole. Another favorite of mine is a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt right on top – it adds a creamy tang that’s simply divine. You could also serve it with some seasoned rice or a side of refried beans for an even heartier meal. For a similar flavor profile, try our Boat Dip Rotel Ranch Dip.
Nutrition Facts for Simple Beef Enchilada Casserole
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this fantastic Simple Beef Enchilada Casserole. It’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Simple Beef Enchilada Casserole. For other healthy options, explore our Zepbound Weight Loss Recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Beef Enchilada Casserole
Properly storing and reheating your Beef Enchilada Casserole leftovers ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish for days to come. Once the casserole has cooled slightly, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes, you can store it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have a lot of delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole and want to save it for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you have a couple of great options. For individual portions, the microwave is quick and easy. Just heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re reheating a larger portion or want to maintain the casserole’s texture best, cover it with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the flavors vibrant and the cheese gooey. For a different kind of comfort food, try our Frozen Banana Snickers.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Beef Enchilada Casserole
What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?
A Beef Enchilada Casserole is essentially a deconstructed version of traditional enchiladas, layered in a baking dish instead of rolled. It typically features seasoned ground beef, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and plenty of cheese, baked until bubbly and delicious. It’s a fantastic shortcut to enjoying those classic enchilada flavors without the time-consuming rolling process.
Why is Beef Enchilada Casserole so good?
This dish is so good because it hits all the right comfort food notes! It combines savory, seasoned ground beef with soft tortillas, a zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese – a flavor combination that’s hard to beat. It’s incredibly satisfying and delivers all the beloved tastes of enchiladas in a much simpler, more accessible format. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for a reason!
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn for my Beef Enchilada Casserole?
You certainly can! While corn tortillas are traditional for authentic flavor and texture, flour tortillas work well too. They will result in a slightly different texture, often softer and chewier, and they absorb the sauces a bit differently. Just be aware that using flour tortillas will change the overall character of your Beef Enchilada Casserole, but it will still be incredibly tasty!
How can I make my Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole spicier?
To add a kick to your Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole, you have a few options! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes directly into the beef mixture while you’re cooking it. Using a spicier enchilada sauce or topping the finished casserole with a dash of hot sauce before serving are also great ways to increase the heat level to your preference.
Beef Enchilada Casserole Variations You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your Beef Enchilada Casserole! There are so many delicious ways to switch things up to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For those who love a little heat, a Spicy Beef Enchilada Casserole is fantastic; simply add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture, or use a hotter enchilada sauce. If you’re cooking for the family, a Kid-friendly Beef Enchilada Casserole can be made by using mild sauce and perhaps a touch less seasoning, ensuring everyone enjoys it. You can also swap the ground beef for shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter version, or even go vegetarian by using sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms instead of meat! For another flavorful meatball option, try our Korean BBQ Meatballs.
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Incredible Beef Enchilada Casserole 5 Ways
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This ultimate Beef Enchilada Casserole recipe delivers incredible flavor with seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and layers of tortillas and cheese. It’s a simple, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 10 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the meat is browned and the onion is soft.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to incorporate the spices.
- Mix in the black beans and corn, then remove from heat. Stir in half of the enchilada sauce.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce. Place 5 tortillas on the bottom, overlapping them slightly.
- Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas and top with a layer of cheese.
- Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining beef mixture and cheese.
- Finish by drizzling the remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer of cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground pork in the filling.
- If you prefer a little heat, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Try using a blend of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique taste.
- You can customize this Beef Enchilada Casserole by substituting ground beef for shredded cooked chicken for a lighter option, or replace the meat with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Use corn tortillas labeled gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed.
- You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Reheat slices in the microwave or in a preheated oven until warmed through. Cover with foil to keep moisture in while reheating.
- While corn tortillas are traditional for this Beef Enchilada Casserole, you can use flour tortillas, but be mindful that they will change the texture and flavor slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: N/A
