I love making Beef Enchilada Casserole, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that always hits the spot! This recipe combines layers of flavorful ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce, all baked to perfection.
The best part is how easy it is to prepare. Simply brown the beef, add some spices and enchilada sauce, and layer it between tortillas and cheese in a casserole dish. Bake it until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of enchiladas, but in a convenient and tasty casserole form.
Ingredients Needed for This Recipe
- 10 small tortillas cut in half corn or flour tortillas work here
- cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef I use 93% lean
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 15 ounces pinto beans rinsed and drained
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tomatoes cored, seeded and diced
- ¼ cup green onions sliced
Instructions for Making Beef Enchilada Casserole
- To begin, warm up the oven to a temperature of 350°F. Apply a layer of cooking spray onto a 2 quart baking dish.
- Begin by heating the oil in a sizable pan over medium heat. Proceed to add the minced beef and let it cook for a duration of 6 to 8 minutes, ensuring to separate the meat using a spoon.
- Combine the taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and beans together and mix well.
- Evenly distribute 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce on the base of the baking dish.
- Layer ⅓ of the tortillas over the sauce.
- Put half of the meat mixture, and then sprinkle three-fourths of a cup of cheese on the meat.
- Add half a cup of the enchilada sauce on top of the cheese.
- Do the same steps again using one-third of the tortillas, the remaining meat mixture, three-fourth cup of cheese, and half cup of sauce.
- Place the last third of tortillas onto the casserole, then drizzle the remaining sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Place foil over the casserole and cook in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese has melted and turned a golden-brown color.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes and green onions evenly on the surface. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
Understand Your Ingredients: The key to a perfect beef enchilada casserole lies in the quality and type of ingredients used. Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option, and consider the type of tortillas (corn or flour) based on your texture preference. Corn tortillas offer a traditional taste and are less likely to become soggy, while flour tortillas are softer and easier to cut through.
Seasoning is Key: Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. The taco seasoning, along with salt and pepper, should be adjusted to taste. If you’re adventurous, consider adding cumin, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Layering Technique: To ensure every bite is as delicious as the last, focus on even layering of the ingredients. This not only helps in cooking the casserole evenly but also ensures that the flavors are well distributed throughout the dish.
Cheese Matters: The type of cheese can make or break your casserole. While cheddar is recommended for its melting properties and flavor, mixing in some Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice variety of flavors and textures.
Baking to Perfection: To achieve the perfect golden-brown cheese topping without overcooking the inside, cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking period. This allows the casserole to cook thoroughly without burning the cheese. Removing the foil towards the end lets the cheese get that desirable crispy top.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments: Serve the beef enchilada casserole with a side of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for added flavor and texture. These sides allow guests to customize their plate according to their taste preferences.
Salads: A fresh green salad or a corn and bean salad can complement the richness of the casserole. The freshness and crunch from the salad provide a nice contrast to the soft and savory casserole.
Beverages: Pair the casserole with refreshing beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer. For a more authentic experience, consider serving with a margarita or a glass of sangria.
For a Hearty Meal: If you’re looking for an even heartier meal, consider serving the casserole with a side of Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice. These sides can soak up the delicious enchilada sauce and make the meal even more satisfying.
Storage Tips
Cooling Down: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the casserole soggy.
Refrigeration: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To best preserve the texture, cover the surface with a layer of plastic wrap before sealing with the lid.
Freezing: For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap the casserole dish tightly with both plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If reheating individual portions, a microwave can be used, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, while ground beef is traditional, ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian meat substitute can be used in this recipe. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the substitute.
How can I make the casserole spicier? To add heat, include diced jalapeños in the beef mixture, use a spicier enchilada sauce, or add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the seasoning.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it up to a day ahead. When ready to serve, bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
Is this recipe gluten-free? This recipe can be made gluten-free by using corn tortillas and ensuring that the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning are gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to be sure.
How can I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy? Using corn tortillas can help prevent sogginess. Additionally, do not over-saturate the layers with enchilada sauce. Applying a moderate amount ensures the casserole is moist without becoming soggy.
Beef Enchilada Casserole
INGREDIENTS
- 10 small tortillas cut in half corn or flour tortillas work here
- cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef I use 93% lean
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 15 ounces pinto beans rinsed and drained
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tomatoes cored seeded and diced
- ¼ cup green onions sliced
INSTRUCTIONS
- To begin, warm up the oven to a temperature of 350°F. Apply a layer of cooking spray onto a 2 quart baking dish.
- Begin by heating the oil in a sizable pan over medium heat. Proceed to add the minced beef and let it cook for a duration of 6 to 8 minutes, ensuring to separate the meat using a spoon.
- Combine the taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and beans together and mix well.
- Evenly distribute 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce on the base of the baking dish.
- Layer ⅓ of the tortillas over the sauce.
- Put half of the meat mixture, and then sprinkle three-fourths of a cup of cheese on the meat.
- Add half a cup of the enchilada sauce on top of the cheese.
- Do the same steps again using one-third of the tortillas, the remaining meat mixture, three-fourth cup of cheese, and half cup of sauce.
- Place the last third of tortillas onto the casserole, then drizzle the remaining sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Place foil over the casserole and cook in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese has melted and turned a golden-brown color.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes and green onions evenly on the surface. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
