If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings all the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine into one dish, you are going to adore this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, tender tortillas, and that signature enchilada sauce that makes every bite satisfyingly delicious. Simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to friends or family, this casserole wraps up a feast worth savoring in every layer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is straightforward but essential, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together beautifully. From the savory seasoned beef to the creamy cheese and vibrant beans and corn, these components create a balanced symphony of tastes you won’t forget.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base with a rich meaty flavor essential for the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle aromatic punch that brightens the savory notes.
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning: Delivers that signature zesty southwestern spice blend.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps dissolve the seasoning and meld the flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce, divided: Brings the iconic tangy, slightly smoky, and rich flavor that enchiladas are known for.
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into halves: Forms the soft, tender layers soaking up all the good juices and sauce.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided: Adds creamy, bubbly, gooey goodness on every layer and the top.
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein, fiber, and a lovely texture contrast to the beef.
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained: Offers a sweet crunch and bursts of color in the casserole.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just the right amount of mild heat to balance the dish.
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, herbal note and pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Brown the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup easier. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the finely chopped onion. Cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onion is softened, about 6 to 8 minutes, builds a savory foundation for this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Drain off any excess grease to keep the mixture balanced and not too oily.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—that little step really amps up the flavor. Incorporate the taco seasoning and water, mixing well so all the spices dissolve into the meat. Let this simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, allowing the beef to soak up every bit of that zesty flavor.
Step 3: Mix in Beans, Corn, and Season
After seasoning the beef, fold in the drained black beans and corn for added texture, nutrition, and bursts of sweetness. Sprinkle in salt and pepper, then remove your skillet from heat so the mixture sets perfectly before layering.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour half a cup of red enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Create a layer with half of the tortilla halves, followed by half of the beef and bean mixture, and then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat this layering process with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and another half cup of enchilada sauce. Top everything off by scattering the last cup of cheese over the casserole to guarantee that gooey, bubbly cheese topping we all love.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake the casserole for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with some golden spots. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to help the layers settle and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro introduces bright, herbal freshness that cuts beautifully through the richness. For extra zing, consider adding dollops of sour cream, slices of avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving.
Side Dishes
Complement this comforting casserole with simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette adds refreshing crunch. Warm Mexican rice or refried beans can make your meal even heartier. For a lighter balance, roasted veggies or steamed broccoli provide just the right touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic casserole dish, you can get inventive presenting this recipe. Serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets for a charming rustic vibe or layer it in clear glass dishes to showcase its vibrant, colorful strata. For a casual gathering, offer taco shells or warm tortillas alongside for building your own enchilada bowls with the casserole components.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is perfect for next-day meals. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making your leftovers taste even better.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. For best results, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through, or cover the whole dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes. Adding a few extra minutes uncovered at the end will bring back that perfect melty cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative that still works wonderfully in this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned well.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Using corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas keeps this dish gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How spicy is this recipe?
It has a gentle kick from the taco seasoning but nothing too overpowering. If you love heat, you can add diced jalapeños or hot green chilies to the beef mixture.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute, and you’ll still have a tasty, satisfying Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe-inspired meal.
What is the best way to cut and serve this casserole?
Allowing the casserole to rest for several minutes after baking makes slicing easier and neater. Use a sharp knife and cut into squares for perfect portions.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate – comforting, flavorful, and downright delicious. It’s easy enough to make any night of the week but special enough to impress guests. Once you try this layered delight, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your meal rotation. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cheesy, saucy happiness!
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and melted Mexican cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a comforting family meal with a Mexican-American flair.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Assembly
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce, divided
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into halves
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add taco seasoning and water, stirring well to combine. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in Beans and Corn: Stir in black beans, corn, salt, and pepper, then remove skillet from heat.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the tortilla halves over the sauce, followed by half of the beef mixture and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and enchilada sauce.
- Add Final Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- For extra heat, add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
