Who doesn’t love a comforting, cheesy casserole that warms you from the inside out? Our Beef Enchilada Casserole is all that and more! It’s the perfect family meal, combining the robust flavors of beef with zesty enchilada sauce and gooey cheese, making it irresistible to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Let’s dive into it!
Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can of black beans, drained
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, fresh cilantro for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Wooden spoon
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned all over, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Drain the excess fat and return the pan to the heat. Add the diced onions to the skillet with the beef and sauté until the onions are soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your casserole dish and spread a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of corn tortillas over the sauce, tearing them to fit as necessary. Spoon half of the beef and onion mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of beans, a third of the cheese, and another layer of enchilada sauce. Repeat the layers once more: tortillas, beef, beans, cheese, and sauce.
Step 3: Add the Final Touches
Top the casserole with any remaining cheese and enchilada sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of cooking to help the cheese get melty and golden.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole
This casserole can be served straight from the oven, piping hot and delicious. Let it cool for a few minutes to set before slicing. Feel free to garnish with sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper to the enchilada sauce. You can also swap the corn tortillas for flour if you prefer a softer texture. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
High-Protein Beef Enchilada Casserole: The Hearty Option
To power up this casserole with additional protein, consider adding cooked quinoa or lentils. Not only do they blend flawlessly with the overall texture, but they also absorb the rich flavors beautifully.
Additionally, using lean ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef can significantly reduce fat while keeping the protein content high. Top with some Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein.
Low-Carb Delight: Beef Enchilada Casserole with a Twist
If you’re leaning towards a low-carb meal, substitute the corn tortillas with thin zucchini or eggplant slices. This swap not only brings down the carb content drastically but also introduces a subtly different flavor.
You might also opt for a low-carb enchilada sauce. This way, you’ll retain the boldness of the original flavors while sticking to dietary preferences.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully—just cover tightly and it will keep up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through for the best results.
FAQs
How can I make the casserole vegetarian?
Just substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or additional beans for a veggie-friendly version.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, simply assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate, then bake when needed.
What type of cheese works best?
A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack offers an excellent melty texture with a nice punch.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.
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Final Thoughts on Beef Enchilada Casserole
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a testament to how effortless and scrumptious meals can be. It’s always a hit, whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or at a potluck. Try out the variations, put your own spin on it, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or tips in the comments. If you enjoyed this recipe, spread the love by sharing this post with friends and family who cherish a hearty meal!
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- corn tortillas
- enchilada sauce
- diced onions
- shredded cheese
- black beans
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all your ingredients. Prepare your 9x13 inch casserole dish by lightly greasing it.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Begin layering the casserole. Start by adding a layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the dish, followed by corn tortillas. Add a layer of beef, black beans, cheese, and more enchilada sauce. Repeat these layers once more and finish with cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let the cheese turn golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, jalapeños, or cilantro.