Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole: 5 Steps to Deliciousness

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole: 5 Steps to Deliciousness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 8 corn tortillas; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only hearty but also bursting with flavor, then let me introduce you to my favorite ground beef enchilada casserole! This delightful casserole combines layers of tender tortillas, savory ground beef, and melty cheese all smothered in a zesty enchilada sauce. Trust me, the moment you pull this beauty out of the oven, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that’ll have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation.

ground beef enchilada casserole - detail 1

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, and the best part? You can whip it up in just about 45 minutes! Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving a comforting meal, this casserole checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s versatile enough that you can customize it to suit your taste, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delicious ground beef enchilada casserole together!

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef: I love using a good quality ground beef for this dish; it adds that rich, savory flavor that’s so essential to the casserole.
1 onion, chopped: The onion should be finely chopped to ensure it softens nicely while cooking, adding sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings a wonderful aroma and flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: This is the secret sauce that ties everything together! Choose a brand you love, or even better, make your own if you have the time.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: These add a hearty texture and a bit of fiber to the casserole. Rinsing them helps reduce any excess sodium.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a twist!
8 corn tortillas: Corn tortillas give that authentic enchilada feel. I usually warm them slightly before layering to make them more pliable.
1 teaspoon chili powder: This adds a touch of heat and depth. Adjust it to your spice preference—don’t be shy!
1 teaspoon cumin: A key spice in Mexican cuisine, cumin enhances the savory notes of the beef and beans.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking! A little salt and fresh cracked pepper can elevate the dish beautifully.

How to Prepare Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important for even cooking! You don’t want to pop your casserole in an oven that’s still warming up—trust me, it makes a difference in how the cheese melts and how the flavors meld together.

Cook the Beef Mixture

Now, grab a large skillet and turn the heat to medium. Add your pound of ground beef and let it brown, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s nicely browned, drain off any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy casserole! After that, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the onion becomes translucent, which should take another 2-3 minutes. This combo is where the magic starts to happen! Next, stir in the enchilada sauce, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it all simmer for around 5 minutes to allow those incredible flavors to meld.

Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time for the fun part—assembling your casserole! In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer 3 corn tortillas at the bottom. Make sure they overlap slightly for even coverage. Spoon half of that delicious beef mixture over the tortillas, and don’t skimp on the flavor! Then sprinkle 1 cup of your shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese. Layering is key here; you want every bite to have that perfect mix of beef, beans, and gooey cheese!

Baking the Casserole

Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and has turned a lovely golden brown on top. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps everything set just a bit. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you dig into this cheesy, flavorful delight!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to whip up this ground beef enchilada casserole, let me share some of my top tips for making it truly shine! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can elevate your dish from good to absolutely fantastic.

Quality Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for grass-fed ground beef if possible. The flavor difference is noticeable and will really enhance the overall taste of your casserole.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning is the secret weapon in any dish. As you cook the beef, taste your mixture and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as you go. This ensures every layer is flavorful.
Warm Your Tortillas: A little trick I swear by is warming up your corn tortillas before layering. This makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you layer them, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
Layer with Love: When assembling, make sure to evenly distribute the beef mixture and cheese across the tortillas. This way, each piece you serve will have that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Garnish for Flair: Presentation counts! Consider garnishing your casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced olives, or even a dollop of sour cream just before serving. These little touches not only add color but also complement the flavors beautifully.
Let it Rest: After baking, allow your casserole to sit for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Plus, it gives you a moment to enjoy that delicious aroma filling your kitchen!

With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a ground beef enchilada casserole that will impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this hearty ground beef enchilada casserole. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use.

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 20g

This casserole not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a good balance of protein and fiber, making it a filling option for any meal. Enjoy every delicious bite with the confidence that you’re nourishing your body as well!

Variations on Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your ground beef enchilada casserole! Here are some of my favorite variations that can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. They cook up just as beautifully and still deliver that satisfying flavor, especially when seasoned well.
Vegetarian Delight: Want to make a vegetarian version? Simply replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can add some extra black beans or even lentils for protein. Trust me, even meat lovers will enjoy this hearty twist!
Extra Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped spinach, kale, or corn to the beef mixture. These not only boost the health factor but also add vibrant colors and textures to your casserole.
Different Sauces: While enchilada sauce is traditional, feel free to experiment with different sauces! A green tomatillo sauce adds a zesty twist, or you could try a smoky chipotle sauce for an extra kick. For a creamier texture, a white queso sauce could be drizzled over the top before baking.
Cheese Variations: While I love sharp cheddar, you can mix things up by using Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicy hit, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses. Each will bring a different flavor profile to your casserole.
Layering Techniques: Instead of just tortillas, try layering with crispy tortilla chips for a fun crunch. This will give a whole new texture to your dish that’s sure to impress!
Sweet and Spicy: For a unique flavor combination, consider adding a bit of diced pineapple or mango to your meat mixture. The sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savory and spicy elements of the casserole.

These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor the dish to your family’s preferences or dietary needs. So don’t hesitate to get creative and make this ground beef enchilada casserole your own! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your delicious ground beef enchilada casserole, you might find yourself with some tasty leftovers. No worries! I’ve got you covered with the best ways to store and reheat it so that it maintains all that wonderful flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

First things first, let your casserole cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps avoid condensation that can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. If you have a large portion left, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Properly stored, your enchilada casserole will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you don’t lose track!

Freezing Options

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a fantastic option! You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after. If freezing before baking, assemble it completely, cover it well with plastic wrap, and then foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap and bake from frozen but add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. If you’re freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely, then slice it into portions for easy reheating. Freeze in individual servings for convenience. Just like before, make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It should stay good for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that casserole delicious. For best results, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish if it’s not already, and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If you like your cheese extra melty, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist), and heat in 1-minute increments, checking after each minute until it’s heated to your liking. Just be aware that the microwave may not give you that nice bubbly cheese effect, but it’ll still be tasty!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your ground beef enchilada casserole even after the first serving. Trust me, it’s just as comforting the second time around!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to season it well, as those meats can be milder in flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can easily swap out the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Adding black beans or lentils will help keep the protein content up while making it hearty and satisfying.

What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
No worries! You can use a homemade sauce by blending tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a bit of broth or water. Alternatively, try using a store-bought taco sauce or salsa for a different twist.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Definitely! Just ensure that your corn tortillas are labeled gluten-free. Most brands are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the packaging.

How can I spice it up?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños into the beef mixture or sprinkling some cayenne pepper for an extra kick. For a smoky flavor, try adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika.

What should I serve with this casserole?
This ground beef enchilada casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice. You can also serve it with chips and salsa for a fun appetizer!

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s going in cold.

How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for later. Just wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore this ground beef enchilada casserole! First off, it’s all about ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that comes together in about 45 minutes, right?

And let’s talk about flavor! This casserole is a party for your taste buds. The combination of savory ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a rich, satisfying dish that everyone at the table will rave about. Each bite is a perfect blend of spices, textures, and that delicious cheesy goodness. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” before it even hits the table!

But what I really love about this casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit any occasion or dietary preference. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or even a potluck, this dish can adapt to whatever you need. Want to make it vegetarian? Go for it! Craving a spicy kick? Just add some jalapeños! The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for any meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious and satisfying but also super flexible and easy to prepare, this ground beef enchilada casserole is definitely the one for you. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how much you love it!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.