If you are craving something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, this Beef Enchilada Casserole is a must-try! Layers of beef, tortillas, and cheese, all smothered in a rich enchilada sauce, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into this culinary delight that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
Your pantry is about to become your best friend with these simple ingredients!
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chiles
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
Gather these tools for an easy cooking experience:
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Spatula
- Mixing spoon
- Cheese grater
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent, which takes about two minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook until it is no longer pink.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Once the beef is browned, stir in the enchilada sauce, chopped green chiles, and black beans. Let the mixture simmer for about five minutes until the flavors meld together perfectly. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a spoonful of the beef mixture to cover the bottom. Layer four corn tortillas, followed by half of the beef mixture and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole sit for five minutes before serving to ensure it holds its shape when sliced.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole
Serve your Beef Enchilada Casserole with a side of fresh avocado slices or a simple green salad for a delightful and balanced meal. The casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Customize your casserole by adding extras like jalapeños for heat, or swap cheddar with a mix of Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Ensure that your favorite toppings are ready—think sour cream, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime!
High Protein Power-Up: Beef Enchilada Casserole
If you’re looking to boost the protein quotient of this already hearty meal, consider adding a can of drained pinto beans or shredded chicken along with the beef. Not only does this increase the nutritional content, but it also adds more volume and texture.
Low Carb Delight: Naturally Tasty Beef Enchilada Casserole
To create a low-carb version, swap out the corn tortillas for low-carb wraps or make it even more exciting by using grilled slices of zucchini or eggplant as your layering base. This tweak reduces the carb content while retaining the rich, satisfying flavor.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers? No problem! Store the Beef Enchilada Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
FAQs
- Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- What can I use instead of enchilada sauce? Try a mix of tomato sauce and Mexican spices for a homemade alternative.
- Can this recipe be made vegetarian? Absolutely, replace the beef with more beans or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu.
- How do I prevent my casserole from getting soggy? Ensure to drain the beef mixture well and lightly toast tortillas before layering.
- What cheese variations work best? Besides cheddar, experiment with pepper jack or queso fresco for varied flavor dynamics.
Join the Fiesta with Our Enchilada Casserole!
This Beef Enchilada Casserole not only brings feast-like joy to your table but also easy prep and maximum flavor. Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece on social media and leave a comment below with your tweaks and tips!
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- enchilada sauce
- chopped green chiles
- black beans
- shredded cheddar cheese
- corn tortillas
- medium onion
- garlic
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook until it is no longer pink. Stir in the enchilada sauce, chopped green chiles, and black beans.
- Let the mixture simmer for about five minutes until the flavors meld together perfectly. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a spoonful of the beef mixture to cover the bottom. Layer four corn tortillas, followed by half of the beef mixture and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let sit for five minutes before serving.