This Amazing Beef Enchilada Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish loaded with ground beef, beans, and tortillas. It’s the perfect comfort food for any night!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! Just layer the ingredients, bake, and watch everyone dig in. I love serving it with a dollop of sour cream on top—it’s just so scrumptious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for less fat or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian dish, try substituting with lentils or crumbled tempeh.
Enchilada Sauce: A key flavor provider! You can use store-bought or make your own for a fresher taste. If you prefer less spice, opt for mild sauce. In a pinch, taco sauce can work too.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are standard here, but corn tortillas are a great gluten-free alternative. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, try crispy tortilla chips in layers for added texture!
Cilantro: This adds a fresh kick. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute. You could also leave it out entirely or use green onions for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Layers Are Perfect?
Layering is essential for even cooking and flavor distribution. Here’s how to do it right!
- Start with a thin layer of beef mixture in the dish to prevent sticking.
- Place tortillas so they overlap slightly, ensuring full coverage. This keeps your casserole intact when serving.
- Alternate layers of beef, cheese, and tortillas. Finish with a cheese layer on top for a gooey finish.
- Cover the dish with foil initially to keep moisture in, then remove it to let the cheese get golden and bubbly.
Enjoy the process and don’t rush—each layer adds to the overall deliciousness!
How to Make Amazing Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6-8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup white onion, finely diced (for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This casserole will take around 15 minutes to prepare and about 35 minutes to bake, making the total time around 50 minutes. Quick and simple, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole!
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from getting greasy.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the enchilada sauce, beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld all the flavors together. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped cilantro.
4. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
5. Layer the Tortillas:
Place a layer of tortillas over the beef mixture. They can overlap a little, which is perfectly fine! This will create that delicious, layered texture.
6. Add More Layers:
Spread more of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. You’re creating layers of flavor here, so don’t skimp on the cheese!
7. Build the Remaining Layers:
Repeat the layers (tortillas, beef, cheese) until all of your ingredients are used, making sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese on top. Cheese lovers, rejoice!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. This helps everything heat through and the cheese to melt.
9. Make it Golden:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step will help the cheese on top get all bubbly and delicious!
10. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This helps it set a little bit, making serving easier. Garnish with the diced tomatoes, white onion, and some extra cilantro on top for a fresh touch.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy your rich, cheesy, and hearty Amazing Beef Enchilada Casserole!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to really enhance the taste!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. Just be sure to season appropriately to ensure it’s flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze. To cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. Enjoy that homemade goodness even later!
