If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings a fiesta of flavors to your dinner table, this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It combines hearty ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, layers of tender corn tortillas, and gooey melted cheese into an irresistible casserole that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. This layered Mexican-inspired delight offers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesy goodness, making it an ideal meal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, from the savory ground beef and punchy enchilada seasoning that bring bold flavor, to the soft corn tortillas providing wonderful texture, and the rich cheese that ties everything together with creamy warmth. Each element is simple yet essential, creating a dish that’s both approachable and bursting with Mexican-inspired charm.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this casserole deeply satisfying and flavorful.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
- 1 packet enchilada seasoning mix: The secret blend of spices that delivers that authentic enchilada kick.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Provides moisture and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce that keeps everything moist and delicious.
- 10-12 corn tortillas, cut into strips: Layers that soak up sauce and provide that classic enchilada texture without the usual rolling.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts perfectly to add creamy, gooey indulgence throughout the dish.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional): Adds a gentle heat and complexity if you like a bit more spice.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for topping): A creamy cooling contrast that pairs beautifully with the casserole’s spices.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and color just before serving.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gentle temperature is perfect for warming the casserole evenly and melting the cheese just right without drying it out.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef alongside the chopped onion. Cooking until the beef is fully browned ensures a meaty base full of rich flavor, while the onions soften and add a subtle sweetness.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Now, stir in the enchilada seasoning mix, enchilada sauce, and the optional diced green chilies. Simmering the mixture for about 5 minutes allows all those impressive flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory, mildly spicy filling that will make your home smell incredible.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grab a baking dish and start layering with half of the tortilla strips, followed by half of the beef mixture, then half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until everything is used up, ensuring each bite gets a delicious balance of textures and tastes.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pop your assembled casserole into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges — pure comfort in every bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool just a bit so it sets nicely. Top with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle fresh cilantro over everything for that vibrant final touch that turns this hearty dish into a festive celebration on your plate.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your beef enchilada casserole with toppings that add contrast and extra flavor. Beyond the traditional sour cream and fresh cilantro, consider slices of ripe avocado, a squeeze of lime, or some chopped green onions to brighten the dish and bring a fresh, creamy element.
Side Dishes
This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like Mexican rice or refried beans, making the meal feel well-rounded and authentically satisfying. A crisp green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette can also balance out the richness of the casserole with fresh, crunchy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets straight from the oven. This makes for an impressive presentation that’s perfect when entertaining guests, allowing everyone to enjoy their own personal cheesy, saucy masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making for even tastier second helpings.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weeks. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, though the oven method helps keep the texture and flavors at their best.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas in this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas will create a softer, slightly chewier texture compared to corn tortillas. Both options work well, so choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, black beans, or even sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to make a delicious meat-free version while still keeping all the enchilada flavors intact.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Definitely! Add extra diced green chilies, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture to turn up the heat to your liking without overwhelming the dish’s balance of flavors.
What cheese is best for this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe?
A shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend works perfectly, melting nicely and adding that classic cheesy flavor that complements the beef and sauce. You can also try Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier option.
Is sour cream necessary?
Sour cream is optional but highly recommended as a topping because it adds a cool, creamy contrast to the rich and spicy casserole. If you prefer, Greek yogurt can be a flavorful and healthier substitute.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s wonderfully straightforward to make, yet packed with inviting layers of flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole promises comforting, cheesy happiness in every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tangy enchilada sauce, and layers of corn tortillas and melted cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a comforting family meal, it delivers classic Mexican flavors with minimal prep and an easy-to-follow method.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 packet enchilada seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 10–12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender.
- Season the beef: Add the enchilada seasoning mix, enchilada sauce, and diced green chilies if using. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Layer the casserole: In a baking dish, start by layering half of the corn tortilla strips evenly. Spread half of the beef mixture on top, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream and fresh chopped cilantro before serving for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier casserole, add extra diced green chilies or jalapeños.
- Use flour tortillas if corn tortillas are unavailable, but corn provides the most authentic texture and flavor.
- Prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve to save time.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
