There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of a beef enchilada casserole. This dish is a delightful layering of seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas, all smothered in rich enchilada sauce. Each bite is a flavorful explosion, with a perfect balance of spices that dance on your palate. I love how easy it is to whip up, making it a go-to for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen! Trust me, once you try this beef enchilada casserole, it’ll become a staple in your recipe repertoire that everyone will be asking for again and again.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef, 80% lean for a juicy flavor without too much grease.
- 1 onion, chopped, a medium-sized yellow or white onion works best for sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce, choose between mild or spicy based on your heat preference.
- 8 corn tortillas, I love using fresh tortillas for added texture, but store-bought works too!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed to add a hearty protein boost.
- 1 tsp cumin, for that warm, earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 tsp chili powder, adjust according to your spice tolerance!
- Salt and pepper to taste. Always season to bring out all those fantastic flavors!
How to Prepare Beef Enchilada Casserole
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients—this makes the process so much smoother! Chop the onion into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks uniformly, and mince the garlic finely to release all that aromatic goodness. If you can, use fresh garlic; it really elevates the flavor. Also, consider using high-quality beef—it makes a noticeable difference in the final dish. Fresh corn tortillas are a game changer, providing great texture and flavor, so grab those if you can!
Cooking the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat, then add your ground beef. Cook it until it’s well-browned, about 5-7 minutes, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want it to be nice and crumbly, not clumpy. Once browned, drain any excess fat, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully!
Assembling the Casserole
Now, the fun part! In a baking dish, start layering with 3 tortillas on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by half of the black beans and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with 3 more tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, the remaining black beans, and another cup of cheese. Top it off with the last 2 tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This layering technique ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
Baking and Serving
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the layers to set. When serving, I love to garnish my beef enchilada casserole with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for that extra pop of flavor. Enjoy the feast! It’s a hearty dish that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: This beef enchilada casserole is a complete meal, packed with protein and flavor that will fill you up and keep you satisfied.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. You’ll have it ready in no time!
- Versatile Flavors: Feel free to customize it! Whether you like it spicy with jalapeños or prefer a milder dish, you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to scale up for larger groups, making it an ideal dish for potlucks, family dinners, or game days.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, saving you time and stress.
- Leftover Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, perfect for lunch or dinner leftovers that are quick to reheat!
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your beef enchilada casserole, I’ve got a few insider tips! First, always opt for fresh corn tortillas if you can; they add a delightful texture and flavor that really makes the dish pop! If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing different types of cheese—like pepper jack for a spicy kick or a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for creaminess. Also, don’t shy away from enhancing the beef mixture; adding a dash of smoked paprika or even a splash of lime juice can take the flavors to a whole new level. And remember, let the casserole rest after baking—this helps the layers set and makes for easier serving. Trust me, these little tweaks will make your casserole even more irresistible!
Variations of Beef Enchilada Casserole
One of the best things about this beef enchilada casserole is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to cater to your taste or dietary preferences. For a lighter option, try substituting ground turkey for the beef—it’s just as tasty and a bit healthier. You can also go vegetarian by using black beans or lentils as the main protein source, and I promise you won’t miss the meat!
If you’re looking to pack in some extra veggies, consider adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to the beef mixture. They not only add nutrition but also bring a wonderful freshness to the dish. Feeling adventurous? Spice things up by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chipotle powder for a smoky heat. You can even experiment with different cheeses—like crumbled feta or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a unique twist!
And let’s not forget about the toppings! Instead of just cheese, think about adding sliced olives, diced avocados, or even a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. The sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing your casserole, so let your creativity flow and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your beef enchilada casserole, let it cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save some for later, it freezes beautifully! Just portion it out in airtight containers or freezer bags, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, I recommend using the oven to keep the texture nice and firm. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If you want that cheesy topping to get bubbly again, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delicious beef enchilada casserole is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of cheese or the fat content of the ground beef. Always check your ingredient labels for the most accurate information!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may not have the same richness in flavor, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning.
What if I don’t have enchilada sauce? No worries! You can make your own by mixing tomato sauce with spices like cumin, chili powder, and a bit of vinegar for tang. It’ll give you a similar flavor profile!
How spicy is this beef enchilada casserole? It really depends on your choice of enchilada sauce and any additional spices you add. If you’re sensitive to heat, opt for a mild sauce and skip the chili powder or add less of it. You can always serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy!
Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be added to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic to soften them up.
How do I know how many servings this makes? This recipe yields about 6 servings, but serving sizes can vary based on appetite. If you’re serving it at a gathering, I’d recommend preparing a little extra just in case!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake and enjoy!
How should I store leftovers? Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months!
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole: 7 Steps to Deliciousness!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful beef enchilada casserole layered with tortillas, seasoned beef, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent.
- Stir in enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer 3 tortillas, half of the beef mixture, half of the black beans, and 1 cup of cheese.
- Repeat the layering with 3 more tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, remaining black beans, and 1 cup of cheese.
- Top with the last 2 tortillas and remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or sour cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: beef enchilada casserole, Mexican casserole, beef casserole
