Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s warm, hearty, and bursting with bold flavors, this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s everything you love about classic enchiladas, layered up and baked into a cheesy, saucy casserole that effortlessly feeds a crowd or leaves you with plenty of delicious leftovers. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender corn tortillas, melty colby jack cheese, and the slight kick from green chilies creates a comforting and satisfying meal that feels like a big, flavorful hug. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe delivers on taste and ease every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this flavorful Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory richness of the ground beef to the vibrant punch of the enchilada sauce, contributing layers of taste, texture, and color to every bite.

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base necessary for a meaty filling.
• 1 small onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth that complements the spices.
• 10 oz red enchilada sauce: Delivers that signature tangy, rich sauciness that ties everything together.
• 4 oz diced green chilies: Inject a mild heat and fresh brightness to the mix.
• 15 oz black beans (drained and rinsed): Add a creamy texture and protein boost, rounding out the layers.
• 15 oz can corn (drained): Brings a touch of sweetness and crunchy contrast in each bite.
• 2 tsp chili powder: Infuses warm, smoky spice essential for authentic flavor.
• 1 tsp cumin: Introduces earthy undertones that deepen the spice profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the heat.
• 10 corn tortillas: The soft, slightly chewy layers that soak up sauce and create structure.
• 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection, adding creamy richness.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the finished dish.

How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the casserole. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Aromatics

In a skillet set over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and starting to caramelize. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking everything together until the onions soften and everything smells irresistibly fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Mix in the red enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, rinsed black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken into a luscious filling.

Step 4: Lay Down the Tortilla Foundation

Arrange a layer of corn tortillas evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This creates the sturdy, soft base for your casserole’s layers.

Step 5: Add the First Beef Mixture Layer

Spoon half of your warm beef and bean mixture over the tortilla layer, spreading it out to cover as evenly as possible for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Sprinkle On Cheese

Generously scatter a portion of shredded colby jack cheese over the beef mixture. This gooey layer will melt in the oven and help bind the casserole beautifully.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

Place another layer of corn tortillas on top, followed by the remaining beef mixture and the rest of the shredded cheese. This layering ensures every spoonful has a perfect balance of ingredients.

Step 8: Cover and Bake

Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Pop it into the oven for 20 minutes, allowing everything to heat through and meld together.

Step 9: Melt and Brown the Cheese

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Watch as the cheese bubbles, melts, and starts to develop a beautiful golden crust.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Your Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is now ready to impress!

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes really elevate this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Besides the classic chopped cilantro, adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced green onions adds creaminess and vibrant notes that complement the robust casserole flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that won’t compete but instead balance out the richness. Think a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, Spanish rice for extra heartiness, or even some warm, buttery tortillas to scoop up every delicious bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the casserole family-style in the baking dish or portion it out onto colorful plates with a wedge of lime. You can also offer an array of toppings like sliced avocado, jalapeño slices, or pickled onions for guests to customize their servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an easy option for next-day meals.

Freezing

If you want to save some for much later, freeze the casserole before baking or after it has cooled post-baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until the center is heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave single portions, but baking retains the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

You absolutely can! Flour tortillas will give you a softer, chewier texture and slightly different flavor but work just as well layered in this casserole.

Is this recipe spicy?

The chili powder and green chilies provide a gentle warmth rather than intense heat, making the dish flavorful but approachable for most taste buds. You can adjust spice levels by choosing mild or hot enchilada sauce.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for extra beans, sautéed vegetables, or even a plant-based meat substitute to keep it hearty and satisfying.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have colby jack?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all melt beautifully and can easily replace colby jack without compromising taste.

How many servings does this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe yield?

This recipe comfortably serves 6 to 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings where everyone wants seconds.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a celebration every time you sit down to eat it. It’s approachable, full of wonderful textures and flavors, and perfect for sharing love through food. I encourage you to try it, savor every cheesy, saucy bite, and maybe even make it your new weeknight favorite.

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