Introduction
Looking for a hearty and delicious meal to satisfy your cravings? This beef enchilada casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With layers of corn tortillas, savory ground beef, and a rich enchilada sauce, this casserole brings the delightful flavors of traditional enchiladas to your table in a convenient, easy-to-make form. Inspired by my love for bold, spicy flavors and my constant quest for dishes that delight both young and old, this recipe is now a staple at my home. Whether it’s the chilly weather that calls for comfort food or a festive night in with loved ones, the cassoulet holds a special place in my heart. For more insights into perfecting classic Mexican dishes, check out the trusted resources from Serious Eats.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make
- Rich, bold flavors
- Family-friendly
- Perfect for leftovers
Why This Is So Good
The beef enchilada casserole recipe offers an unrivaled taste sensation, balancing flavorful spices with hearty ingredients. This dish will quickly become a family favorite for several reasons:
- – Bold and Savory: The combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices creates a rich, savory base.
- – Comfort Food Perfected: Layers of corn tortillas and Mexican cheese blend give this dish its comforting texture.
- – Quick and Easy: Simple assembly means this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- – Versatile and Customizable: Add or substitute ingredients such as different beans or cheese to customize.
When I first prepared this beef enchilada casserole for my family, the warm, inviting aroma filled the house with a sense of nostalgia and anticipation. As they gathered around the dinner table, the anticipation turned into sheer delight. Each bite brought smiles and a chorus of compliments, instantly transporting us all to cozy family gatherings of the past. The praise was not just for the taste, but for the comforting embrace of home-cooked goodness. For cooking techniques that elevate flavors, I often turn to authentic Mexican cooking techniques that guarantee an authentic experience. For those interested in exploring more savory dishes like this, dive into our delicious slow cooker taco recipe that’s perfect for experimenting with spices and flavors.
Making Sure It Turns Out
For the perfect beef enchilada casserole recipe, attention to detail is crucial. Always sauté your garlic with the onions until it’s fragrant to enhance the flavor. Use fresh corn tortillas, as they absorb the sauce better. Consider using a glass baking dish to ensure even cooking. Finally, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving so that it sets properly.
Once, I forgot to let my casserole rest and it was a soupy mess. My mistake showed just how important resting time is. It turned out much better the next time around.
Perfect Serving Ideas
Beef enchilada casserole is perfect for any festive occasion. Serve it with a side of Spanish rice or a zesty avocado salad. A chilled margarita makes the perfect drink companion. This meal is excellent for a cozy family night, bringing everyone together over its aromatic scent.
Making It Different
If you’re looking to put a spin on the traditional beef enchilada casserole recipe, try swapping the cheese for a smoky gouda or sharp cheddar. For more color, add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat. You can even substitute the ground beef with chicken or turkey for a leaner option. These small changes can transform your dish into something extraordinary.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftover beef enchilada casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to retain its moisture, and it will taste even deeper and more flavorful the next day. For more innovative storage tips, check out this article.
Tips That Actually Help
Choose a 9×13-inch baking dish for the ideal thickness. Always pre-cook the enchilada sauce to enhance its flavors. Be sure to warm the tortillas before assembly to avoid tearing.
A simple kitchen lesson I learned is to keep a rolling pin handy to flatten tortillas gently for stacking. It saves time and ensures an even layering.
This casserole holds a special place in my heart. One winter evening, I made it for a holiday potluck, and the rich aroma enchanted everyone. Seeing my family’s delight was incredibly fulfilling. For new cooking techniques and exciting variations, consider exploring these comprehensive guides.
Closing Paragraph
Creating this Beef Enchilada Casserole recipe has become a delightful tradition in my home, bringing warmth and flavor to the table with each bake. My family and friends eagerly anticipate it, often requesting it for gatherings and casual dinners alike. The combination of hearty ingredients and savory spices never fails to impress, making it a staple meal for us. If you’ve been searching for a delicious dish that’s both comforting and easy to make, this casserole is certainly worth trying. Dive into this culinary gem, and you too will find it becoming a beloved recipe in your repertoire. For more comforting casserole ideas, check out Classic Casseroles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Beef Enchilada Casserole, alongside helpful tips and suggestions to enhance your cooking experience.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it before serving.
→ What can I serve with this Beef Enchilada Casserole?
Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some fresh guacamole for a balanced meal.
→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply substitute the ground beef with more beans or a meat alternative like tempeh. For more inspirations, visit Vegetarian Casseroles.
→ Can I freeze the Beef Enchilada Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping tightly and freezing.
→ What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
A Mexican cheese blend works perfectly, providing a harmonious mix of flavors to complement the beef enchilada casserole recipe.
Ingredients
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Delight in the robust flavors of this beef enchilada casserole recipe, a hearty and delicious family meal. This layered casserole is filled with rich spices, savory beef, crispy tortillas, and gooey cheese.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
1 hour
Author: Laura Benton • Traditional Recipe • Difficulty: Moderate • Servings: 6 • Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
– For 6 servings
- 01 1 lb ground beef
- 02 12 corn tortillas
- 03 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 04 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 05 1 cup corn kernels
- 06 1 large onion, chopped
- 07 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 08 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 09 1 tsp ground cumin
- 10 1 tsp chili powder
- 11 Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 12 Sour cream, for serving
Preparation
- 01 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- 02 In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, about 7-8 minutes.
- 03 Drain any excess fat from the skillet and stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 04 Add the black beans and corn to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 05 Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer 4 corn tortillas over the sauce.
- 06 Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by another layer of enchilada sauce and 1/3 of the cheese.
- 07 Repeat the layers with 4 more tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, more sauce, and another 1/3 of the cheese.
- 08 Top with the last layer of tortillas, remaining sauce, and the rest of the cheese.
- 09 Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- 10 Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply add 10 minutes to the baking time.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Foil
- Oven
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream), and gluten (if using flour tortillas).
Nutritional Values (per serving)
Calories: 420, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 36g, Protein: 24g, Fiber: 8g, Sugar: 6g