Beef Enchilada Casserole: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings all the Mexican-inspired comfort you crave ?without the fuss of rolling individual enchiladas! With layers of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, tortillas, and rich enchilada sauce, this casserole delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Whether you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors or prefer a milder version, this recipe is easily customizable and guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – No rolling required; just layer and bake.
• Irresistible Taste – Savory beef, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese in every bite.
• Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Wholesome & Hearty – A complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with everyday pantry staples.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels or add your favorite toppings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 small flour or corn tortillas, cut in halves or quarters
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar)
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Add Flavor:
Stir in enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Layer the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the tortillas, half the beef mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat layers once more.

Bake:
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with cilantro and black olives. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or sliced avocado.
• Side Pairings: Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad.
• Leftover Uses: Wrap leftovers in tortillas for easy enchilada burritos.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold lime soda, iced tea, or margarita.

Additional Tips

• Use fresh tortillas for the best texture.
• Mix in corn or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add corn, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Spicy Version: Use hot enchilada sauce or add cayenne pepper.
• Creamy Twist: Mix in sour cream or cream cheese to the beef layer.
• Herb-Infused Upgrade: Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 2 months.
• Reheat: In microwave or oven with a splash of sauce to keep moist.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Aluminum foil

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken both work great for a lighter version.

What can I substitute for enchilada sauce?
Use taco sauce or make a quick homemade enchilada sauce with tomato paste, broth, and spices.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Use corn tortillas and gluten-free enchilada sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely, assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Casserole is the ultimate comfort food rich, cheesy, and bursting with zesty Mexican flavor. It’s simple to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for busy nights or gatherings.

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