Beef Enchilada Casserole

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is quick to assemble and packed with bold flavors. With layers of seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and plenty of cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

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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 Side Dishes
• Serve with a Salad
• 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?
• How can I customize my Beef Enchilada Casserole?
• Can I make Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
• What sides go well with Beef Enchilada Casserole?
• Is Beef Enchilada Casserole kid-friendly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Beef Enchilada Casserole can be ready in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and hearty flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cooking spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef evenly while allowing space for mixing ingredients.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving of your Beef Enchilada Casserole.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables like onions and garlic to enhance flavor.

Ingredients

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 large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Cook 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. Stir in the enchilada sauce, drained diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes so that all flavors meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish:
1. Layer 4 corn tortillas on the bottom, slightly overlapping if necessary.
2. Spread half of the beef mixture over these tortillas evenly.
3. Sprinkle half of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over this layer.
4. Repeat by adding another layer of 4 corn tortillas followed by the remaining beef mixture.
5. Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baked:
– Take out from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired before serving.

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is not only easy to make but also creates an impressive meal that everyone will love! Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

Serving Beef Enchilada Casserole can be as versatile as the dish itself. It’s a perfect centerpiece that can be complemented with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and balances the spices.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who like heat, jalapeños add an extra kick.

Pair with Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Serve with seasoned Mexican rice for a filling meal.
• Refried Beans: A side of refried beans adds protein and complements the flavors.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the richness of the casserole.

Serve with a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado offers a refreshing contrast.
• Corn Salad: A corn salad can bring sweetness that pairs well with the savory casserole.

How to Perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole

Achieving the perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole is always a hit.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose lean ground beef for better texture and flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Ensure even layers for consistent taste in every bite.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify chili powder according to your heat preference for customization.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set up properly for slicing.
• Experiment with Cheese: Mixing different cheeses can change up the flavor profile significantly.

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Best Side Dishes for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Complementing your Beef Enchilada Casserole with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spanish Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, it’s an excellent pairing for enchiladas.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn offers a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely.
3. Black Bean Salad: This dish is filled with beans, corn, and herbs, providing extra protein and fiber.
4. Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crispy chips with zesty salsa make for a tasty appetizer or side.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
6. Queso Dip: Rich cheese dip served warm can be a delightful addition to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Enchilada Casserole, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland flavors. Always measure your seasonings accurately for a delicious outcome.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until no pink remains for the best texture.
• Ignoring the cheese layering: Skipping layers of cheese can result in a dry casserole. Make sure to distribute cheese evenly throughout the layers for maximum creaminess.
• Using stale tortillas: Old tortillas may break or become soggy in the casserole. Use fresh corn tortillas for better structure and taste.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing so it holds its shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beef Enchilada Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
• Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual servings on a plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty dish made with layers of seasoned ground beef, corn tortillas, cheese, and enchilada sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners!

How can I customize my Beef Enchilada Casserole?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, swap beef for chicken or turkey, or choose different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Can I make Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the casserole earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

What sides go well with Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad to complement this delicious dish.

Is Beef Enchilada Casserole kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy goodness and mild flavors make it appealing to children, while optional toppings let them customize their servings.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will enjoy. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this casserole is sure to impress!