Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor? Then this beef enchilada casserole recipe is for you! This easy-to-make dish combines the rich, savory taste of ground beef, spices, cheese, and tortillas into a delightful layered casserole. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Read on for the full breakdown of ingredients, tips, and instructions to make this dish perfect every time.

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What Is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef enchilada casserole is a deconstructed version of traditional enchiladas, layered like a lasagna but with a Tex-Mex twist. Instead of rolling tortillas around a filling, all the ingredients are layered in a casserole dish and baked to perfection. It's easier to assemble and just as delicious as traditional enchiladas. This version features ground beef, flavorful spices, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and lots of cheese. Whether you’re new to Tex-Mex cuisine or a seasoned pro, this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole

To make this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef – The base of the casserole. Choose lean ground beef for a less greasy dish, or go for higher fat content for more flavor.
• 1 can (10 oz) of red enchilada sauce – You can use mild, medium, or hot depending on your spice preference.
• 8 small corn tortillas – Corn tortillas add an authentic texture and flavor, but you can substitute flour tortillas if preferred.
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – For that gooey, cheesy goodness that tops off the casserole.
• 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Adds another layer of cheesy flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness when cooked.
• 1 can (4 oz) of diced green chiles – Adds a mild spice and a pop of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – A must-have seasoning to enhance the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of cumin – A key Tex-Mex spice that brings warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder – Adds a mild heat and earthy flavor to the beef.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Season as you go for the best flavor.

Optional Garnishes:

• Sour cream – Adds creaminess and balances out the spice.
• Chopped cilantro – Brightens the dish and adds fresh flavor.
• Sliced avocado or guacamole – Adds richness and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced jalapeños – For those who love an extra kick of heat.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to tailor this beef enchilada casserole to your taste or dietary needs, here are a few great substitutions and variations:

1. Ground turkey or chicken: If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe or simply switch up the protein, ground turkey or chicken works well in place of beef.
2. Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef with black beans or a mix of beans and corn for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
3. Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but if you prefer, you can use flour tortillas or even low-carb tortillas to suit your diet.
4. Cheese: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are common in Tex-Mex dishes, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Pepper Jack for extra heat or a Mexican cheese blend.
5. Enchilada sauce: If you don’t have red enchilada sauce on hand, green enchilada sauce works as a delicious alternative. You can also make homemade enchilada sauce if you have the time and ingredients.
6. Add vegetables: Enhance the casserole by adding diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s ready by the time you’ve assembled your casserole.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, and season with garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Add onions and green chiles: Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced onions and green chiles. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
4. Prepare the tortillas: While the beef mixture is cooking, cut the tortillas into quarters. This will make them easier to layer in the casserole.
5. Assemble the casserole: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of quartered tortillas, followed by a layer of the beef mixture. Sprinkle a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all the ingredients, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Let it rest: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly and set before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the beef: If you overcook the ground beef, it can become dry. Cook just until browned and no longer pink for the best texture.
2. Using too many tortillas: While tortillas are a key ingredient, adding too many layers can result in a soggy casserole. Stick to about two layers of tortillas for the perfect balance.
3. Not draining the beef: If your beef mixture is too greasy, it can make the casserole overly oily. Make sure to drain the excess fat after cooking the beef.
4. Skipping the foil: Baking the casserole covered helps everything cook evenly and prevents the cheese from burning before the casserole is fully heated through.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, right out of the oven. Scoop individual portions with a spatula and serve on plates with a few optional toppings. Adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cilantro, and some sliced avocado or guacamole can elevate the dish to the next level. Serve it with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Serve in cast-iron dishes: For a rustic presentation, serve individual portions of the casserole in mini cast-iron skillets.
• Add colorful toppings: Garnish with colorful toppings like bright green cilantro, red salsa, or fresh jalapeño slices to make the dish visually appealing.
• Use a casserole stand: If you're serving this for a dinner party or gathering, placing the casserole dish on a decorative stand can add a touch of elegance.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make it ahead: This dish can be assembled the day before and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
2. Freeze for later: Beef enchilada casserole freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze one for busy nights. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
3. Use homemade enchilada sauce: If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider making your own enchilada sauce. It takes a little extra time but can really enhance the taste.
4. Reheating leftovers: Leftovers can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave. To keep the cheese from drying out, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if you prefer. Keep in mind that the texture may be a bit softer, but it will still taste great.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of beans and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftover beef enchilada casserole will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes! Beef enchilada casserole freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Q: What sides go well with beef enchilada casserole?
A: This dish pairs well with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad with a tangy lime dressing.

Conclusion

Beef enchilada casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and loaded with bold flavors. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family meal or preparing for a party, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With its layers of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce, every bite is a flavorful delight. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings and serve with a delicious side. Now that you have the recipe and all the tips, it’s time to get cooking!

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