why make this recipe
Beef Enchilada Casserole is a perfect meal for families or gatherings. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and easy to prepare. This dish combines ground beef, beans, tortillas, and cheese in a way that everyone loves. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you!
how to make Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Filling:
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Season and Combine: Add the taco seasoning, black beans, and half of the enchilada sauce. Stir well to combine. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Casserole:
4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of tortilla quarters, followed by a layer of the beef mixture, and then a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake:
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
7. Add Toppings: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with diced tomatoes, cilantro, and green onions, if desired.
8. Serve: Slice and serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side.
how to serve Beef Enchilada Casserole
Serve the Beef Enchilada Casserole warm, directly from the oven. It goes well with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to enhance the flavor. You can also pair it with a simple salad or some tortilla chips.
how to store Beef Enchilada Casserole
To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Beef Enchilada Casserole
- For extra flavor, you can add cooked bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, use hot taco seasoning or add jalapeños.
- Make sure to cover the casserole with foil while baking to keep it moist. Remove the foil towards the end to get a nice golden cheese topping.
variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version of this casserole by replacing the ground beef with lentils or more beans. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn if you prefer their texture.
FAQs
Can I make Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just take it out about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef can be used instead of ground beef.
What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use salsa or make a quick homemade sauce with tomato sauce, chili powder, and cumin.
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 oz taco seasoning mix 1 packet
- 15 oz black beans canned, drained and rinsed
- 10 oz enchilada sauce canned
Assembly Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes optional, for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro optional, for garnish
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions optional, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the taco seasoning, black beans, and half of the enchilada sauce. Stir well to combine. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of tortilla quarters, followed by a layer of the beef mixture, and then a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with diced tomatoes, cilantro, and green onions, if desired.
- Slice and serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side.