Beef Enchilada Casserole

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delicious, hassle-free dinner idea that combines the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the comfort of a baked casserole. It’s:

• Quick to Make: Ready in just 40 minutes.
• Hearty & Filling: Perfect for satisfying even the hungriest appetites.
• Customizable: Add your own twist with toppings or alternate ingredients.

This casserole is an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Its layers of seasoned beef, black beans, cheese, and corn tortillas create an irresistible dish everyone will love.

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Tools You’ll Need

To make this recipe seamlessly, gather the following tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: For assembling and baking the casserole.
• Skillet: For browning the beef and cooking the filling.
• Mixing spoon: For stirring ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: For dicing the onion and garlic.
• Cutting board: To prep vegetables.
• Measuring spoons: For precise seasoning measurements.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Fresh Cheese: Shred cheese directly from the block for the best melt and flavor.
• Warm the Tortillas: Slightly warm the corn tortillas before assembling to prevent tearing.
• Drain the Tomatoes & Beans: This ensures the casserole doesn’t become watery.
• Pre-Grease the Dish: Prevent sticking by coating the baking dish with oil or nonstick spray.

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Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 8 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coat of oil.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture:

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and no pink remains.
• Drain off excess fat to keep the casserole light.

3. Add Seasonings & Sauce:

• Stir in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

• Place 4 corn tortillas on the bottom of the greased baking dish, overlapping slightly if needed.
• Spread half the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas.
• Sprinkle half the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beef mixture.
• Add another layer of 4 corn tortillas on top, followed by the remaining beef mixture.
• Finish with the remaining cheeses, spreading them evenly over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

6. Rest & Serve:

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

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Key Notes for Success

• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
• To make it gluten-free, ensure the corn tortillas and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free.
• If doubling the recipe for a crowd, use a larger dish and extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. To elevate the dish, try these serving ideas:

• Classic Toppings: Add sour cream, guacamole, diced avocado, or pico de gallo for a fresh and creamy contrast.
• Crunchy Texture: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or fried onions on top before serving.
• Spicy Heat: Add sliced pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love extra spice.
• Lime Zest: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the rich flavors.

To make it a complete meal, pair it with one or more of these sides:

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Side Dish Recommendations

1. Mexican Rice: A classic and flavorful side made with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy and savory beans pair perfectly with the casserole’s bold flavors.
3. Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Corn on the cob with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
4. Pico de Gallo Salad: A light and refreshing mix of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
5. Chips & Salsa: A simple and crowd-pleasing accompaniment.
6. Cucumber Avocado Salad: A fresh and cooling salad with a zesty lime dressing.
7. Lime-Cilantro Quinoa: A healthy, protein-packed grain side with a bright citrus flavor.
8. Black Bean and Corn Salad: A zesty mix of black beans, corn, and a tangy dressing.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Fix Them

1. Soggy Tortillas

• Issue: Overly wet fillings or excessive sauce can lead to soggy tortillas.
• Solution: Drain the diced tomatoes and black beans well before adding them to the beef mixture.

2. Uneven Layers

• Issue: Uneven spreading of the beef mixture or cheese can result in inconsistent flavors.
• Solution: Take your time to evenly distribute each layer for balanced bites.

3. Overbaking

• Issue: The casserole can dry out if left in the oven too long.
• Solution: Bake only until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, and check frequently after 20 minutes.

4. Not Resting Before Serving

• Issue: Slicing immediately after baking can cause the layers to fall apart.
• Solution: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before cutting to allow the layers to set.

5. Lack of Flavor Depth

• Issue: Skipping spices or using bland ingredients can make the dish taste flat.
• Solution: Don’t skimp on seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic for bold, authentic flavor.

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Pro Tips for Serving

• If serving to a crowd, keep the casserole warm in a low oven (200°F) and provide a toppings bar with a variety of options like salsa, guacamole, and shredded lettuce.
• For a fun twist, serve leftovers as individual tortilla wraps or enchilada-style burritos.

Recipe Tips

• Enhance the Flavor: Toast the cumin and chili powder in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding the beef for a more robust flavor.
• Meat Substitutions: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
• Cheese Variations: Mix in pepper jack for a spicier kick or use a Mexican cheese blend for added richness.
• Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or chopped zucchini to the beef mixture for extra nutrients.
• Extra Creaminess: Drizzle a thin layer of sour cream or queso fresco between the tortilla layers for a creamier texture.

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Storage & Reheating

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Once cooled, transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover tightly with foil. Store for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat the entire casserole or individual portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes on high, checking in intervals to avoid overheating.

Make-Ahead Option:
Prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time to account for the chilled temperature.

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FAQs

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but they will create a softer texture. For gluten-free, ensure the tortillas are labeled as gluten-free.

2. How do I make the casserole less spicy?
Use mild enchilada sauce and skip the chili powder. You can also reduce the cumin for a milder flavor.

3. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat, additional black beans, or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

4. How can I prevent the cheese from browning too much?
Cover the casserole with foil during the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove it to let the cheese melt and bubble without burning.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish (or two 9×13-inch dishes) and adjust the baking time as needed. Check for doneness by ensuring the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

6. What are the best garnishes for this casserole?
Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, or pickled jalapeños add vibrant flavor and texture.

7. Can I make this dish keto-friendly?
To make it keto-friendly, use low-carb tortillas and replace the black beans with cooked cauliflower rice.

8. How do I avoid a watery casserole?
Drain the diced tomatoes and black beans thoroughly, and simmer the beef mixture to reduce excess liquid.

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Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich layers of seasoned beef, cheesy goodness, and tender tortillas, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again. Plus, with the helpful tips and customizable options provided, you can make it uniquely yours.

For more delicious Tex-Mex recipes, explore our other casserole recipes or check out our guide to the best homemade enchiladas! 🌟