If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare, then look no further than the beloved beef enchilada casserole. This recipe combines the robust flavors of seasoned beef with the creamy and spicy tones of enchilada sauce, all layered with gooey cheese and soft tortillas. A hit for family dinners or gatherings, it’s your next go-to comfort food!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 small onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 package (8 pieces) flour tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Optional: sour cream for topping
Equipments
- Frying pan
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
- Cooking spoon
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1 – Prepare the Beef Filling
In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly browned. Drain excess fat. Add minced onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, stirring well to combine. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This rich, savory filling is the heart of our enchilada casserole.
Step 2 – Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Lay down the first layer of tortillas, followed by a layer of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with tortillas and a generous amount of cheese on top.
Step 3 – Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown. This dual baking ensures everything is heated through and the cheese reaches that perfect melted consistency.
Step 4 – Serve Hot
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and, if desired, a dollop of sour cream. This delicious dish is now ready to be shared with loved ones!
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole
Serve the beef enchilada casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad to balance the savory flavors. You can also offer extra enchilada sauce on the side for those who love a bit more kick. Pair with a refreshing beverage like a lime-infused sparkling water or a chilled cerveza.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors, and check the seasoning of the beef filling before layering the casserole. Feel free to customize the fillings with extras like beans or corn to suit your family’s taste. To add a bit of heat, consider topping with sliced jalapeños before the final bake.
High Protein Powerhouse: Beef Enchilada Casserole
Looking to increase your protein intake? This beef enchilada casserole already packs a punch with that savory ground beef. To boost the protein even more, you can add black beans and sprinkle extra cheese between the layers for an additional creamy texture and nutrients. A protein-packed meal that supports your fitness goals without missing out on flavor.
Low Carb Transformation: Beef Enchilada Casserole Without the Guilt
Craving enchiladas but watching those carbs? Swap the flour tortillas for low-carb or whole wheat alternatives. You can also increase the vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to create a more balanced, lower-carb dinner option. This clever twist allows you to enjoy all the deliciousness without the carb overload.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw completely and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Perfect for meal preps!
FAQs
- Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble it a day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
- What can I use instead of beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter version.
- Is there a vegetarian version?
Replace the beef with a mix of black beans and roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian option.
- What cheese works best?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend beautifully, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
Delicious Dining: Your Thoughts on Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ready to dive into the enticing world of casseroles? This beef enchilada casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering flavorsome layers of beef and melted cheese. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please share your experiences, leave comments, or consider sharing this recipe with friends and family who would relish a good meal.
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- enchilada sauce
- shredded cheddar cheese
- shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- small onion
- garlic
- ground cumin
- chili powder
- flour tortillas
- salt and pepper
- chopped cilantro
- sour cream
Instructions
Steps
- In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly browned. Drain excess fat. Add minced onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, stirring well to combine. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Lay down the first layer of tortillas, followed by a layer of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with tortillas and a generous amount of cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and, if desired, a dollop of sour cream.