Beef Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the savory taste of seasoned beef with the rich, zesty flavors of enchilada sauce and melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving a hearty Mexican-inspired meal. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and some helpful tips to ensure your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream and sliced jalapeños (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of oil.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the black beans, diced green chiles, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of tortilla strips over the sauce, followed by a layer of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of enchilada sauce and a generous topping of cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with sour cream and sliced jalapeños if desired.
Tips for the Best Beef Enchilada Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese and has a richer flavor.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add other ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or olives to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Increase the baking time by 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. However, corn tortillas are more traditional and add a distinct flavor to the casserole.
Can I freeze Beef Enchilada Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with Beef Enchilada Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a meatless ground beef alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth if making homemade enchilada sauce.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Variations and Substitutions
Spicy Beef Enchilada Casserole
Add extra heat by using spicy enchilada sauce, adding chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture, or sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Low-Carb Beef Enchilada Casserole
Replace the tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant to make a low-carb version of this casserole.
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole
If you’re a cheese lover, add more cheese between the layers and on top. A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack works well for extra cheesiness.
Conclusion
Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delightful dish that brings all the flavors of enchiladas into a convenient, layered casserole. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.