If you're craving a comforting, cheesy, and savory meal, this Beef Enchilada Casserole recipe is perfect for you. It's a delicious take on classic enchiladas, with layers of seasoned ground beef, tortillas, and rich enchilada sauce all baked to perfection in a casserole dish. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or preparing a dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Keep reading for a detailed guide on how to make this easy and satisfying Beef Enchilada Casserole.
What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?
Beef Enchilada Casserole is a simplified version of traditional beef enchiladas, where instead of rolling each tortilla individually, all the ingredients are layered in a casserole dish, making it quicker and easier to prepare. It includes essential enchilada components such as tortillas, ground beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce. By layering the ingredients in a single dish, you still get all the flavors of a classic enchilada with much less effort.
Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole
Before diving into the recipe, gather all the essential ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here's a list of everything you'll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean beef is recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 10 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream and avocado slices (for serving)
Substitutions and Variations
If you'd like to make your Beef Enchilada Casserole a bit more tailored to your taste or dietary needs, here are some substitutions and variations:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and use a mix of beans, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini as the filling.
- Low-carb tortillas: Swap traditional corn or flour tortillas with low-carb or whole wheat tortillas to make the dish healthier.
- Cheese varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a spicy queso blend.
- Homemade enchilada sauce: If you prefer making your own sauce, you can easily prepare a quick enchilada sauce with tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and some flour to thicken it up.
- Add veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables such as diced tomatoes, corn, or spinach to add extra nutrients and flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the beef: Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the diced green chilies and black beans, allowing everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the tortillas: While the beef mixture is cooking, cut the corn tortillas in halves or quarters to make them easier to layer in the casserole dish.
- Layer the casserole: Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Begin layering with half of the tortillas, followed by half of the beef mixture, a generous drizzle of enchilada sauce, and a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat this process for a second layer (tortillas, beef mixture, sauce, cheese).
- Top it off: For the final touch, add one last layer of tortillas, top with any remaining sauce, and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over the top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream, avocado slices, or even a side of rice and beans if desired.
How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
To ensure your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfectly, follow this comprehensive guide to layer and bake your ingredients to create the ultimate Mexican-inspired dish:
- Cooking the Meat: When browning the ground beef, make sure to fully cook it, but avoid overcooking, as you want it tender and juicy. Proper seasoning is key; don't skimp on the chili powder and cumin, as they give the beef its authentic enchilada flavor.
- Tortilla Preparation: If using corn tortillas, lightly warm them up before cutting to prevent cracking. This step is crucial for maintaining their texture while baking. If you prefer a softer tortilla texture, consider dipping them briefly in warm enchilada sauce before layering.
- Layering Techniques: Ensure you spread the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas and cover them well with enchilada sauce so every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t worry if it looks messy — it all bakes together deliciously!
- Cheese Distribution: Don’t skimp on the cheese. A good enchilada casserole has gooey, melted cheese with every bite. Layer it generously between the tortillas and on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef: If the beef is overcooked, it can become dry and lose flavor. Keep an eye on it as it browns.
- Too few tortillas: Not adding enough tortillas can make the casserole too liquidy from the sauce. Stick to the recipe’s recommended tortilla count.
- Uneven layering: Make sure your layers are even so that every bite has a good mix of tortillas, beef, sauce, and cheese.
- Skipping the rest time: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Beef Enchilada Casserole, presentation is key. While this dish is known for its rustic, comforting look, there are ways to elevate its appearance:
- Slicing neatly: Use a sharp knife to cut the casserole into squares or rectangular pieces, making it easier to serve.
- Garnishing: Add a pop of color with freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or thinly sliced jalapeños on top.
- Condiment choices: Offer sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side to allow guests to customize their servings.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole
You can serve this casserole as the main course alongside popular Mexican-inspired sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side dish made with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and savory beans complement the richness of the casserole.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the enchiladas.
- Tortilla chips and salsa: A crunchy side to add texture.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole
- Layered Serving Dish: Present it in a rustic casserole dish with the cheese bubbling on top for an inviting look.
- Colorful Garnishes: Use colorful garnishes like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or radishes to add visual appeal.
- Plated Elegance: Serve slices of the casserole on individual plates with a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake when ready. This makes it perfect for meal prepping.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier casserole, add more green chilies or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure that the enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
Q: Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought sauce is a time-saving option, but you can also make your own for more control over the flavors.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
A: Yes, flour tortillas will work, but the texture will be slightly softer than with corn tortillas.
Conclusion
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a satisfying, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings all the elements of traditional enchiladas into one convenient bake. Whether you're cooking for a family weeknight meal or preparing a dish for guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With customizable options and the ability to make it ahead of time, it’s the perfect recipe to keep in your rotation. Enjoy this savory, cheesy casserole with your favorite toppings, and don't forget to share the love by serving it up with a side of Mexican-inspired sides!
PrintBeef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
This Beef Enchilada Casserole recipe is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that layers seasoned beef, enchilada sauce, and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it's packed with classic enchilada flavors in a comforting casserole format. Keywords: beef enchilada casserole, easy Mexican dinner, enchilada casserole with beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Enchilada sauce
- Shredded cheese
- Tortillas
- Onion
- Garlic
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ground beef with onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until browned.
- Layer tortillas, beef mixture, enchilada sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish.
- Repeat layers until the dish is full, ending with cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture.
- Use flour or corn tortillas depending on preference.
- Garnish with cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
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