How to Make a Hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you love Mexican-inspired dishes that are full of flavor, tender beef, and gooey melted cheese, then you’re in for a treat! A beef enchilada casserole is a comfort food classic that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. This delicious dish combines layers of seasoned beef, tortillas, cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce to create a crowd-pleasing meal. The best part? You don’t have to roll individual enchiladas—it’s all baked together in one dish! Let’s get started.
What is a Beef Enchilada Casserole?
A beef enchilada casserole is a layered version of traditional enchiladas. Instead of wrapping fillings inside individual tortillas, you layer the ingredients like you would in lasagna. This makes it easier to prepare and portion out while still offering all the delicious flavors of enchiladas. The casserole is bursting with spices, creamy cheese, and a rich beefy filling that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your casserole:
For the casserole:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 1 tablespoon of homemade seasoning (cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained) OR 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (or your favorite homemade enchilada sauce)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack work great)
- 8-10 corn tortillas or flour tortillas, depending on preference
Optional toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Green onions
Kitchen Tools
You’ll need the following tools:
– A large skillet or frying pan
– A 9×13-inch baking dish (or any casserole dish)
– Mixing spoon or spatula
– Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven.
Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly when you’re ready to pop it in.
Step 2: Cook the beef filling.
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of oil (if needed) and toss in the diced onion. Cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it up into small crumbles with your spoon or spatula. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes/salsa, and ½ cup of enchilada sauce. Mix well and let the beef simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Prepare the casserole dish.
Grab your tortillas and enchilada sauce. Spread about ¼ cup of enchilada sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. This first layer acts like glue and adds extra flavor to the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the layers.
Now it’s time to layer the ingredients:
1. Lay 4-5 tortillas over the bottom of the baking dish, cutting them into pieces if needed to cover the surface fully.
2. Spread half of the beef mixture on top of the tortillas.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
4. Pour ½ cup of enchilada sauce evenly on top.
5. Repeat the layers one more time: tortillas, beef, cheese, enchilada sauce.
Step 5: Final topping.
Once your layers are complete, sprinkle an extra ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheese on top for an irresistible finish. This melted cheese will create a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
Step 6: Bake to perfection.
Cover the casserole dish with foil (this keeps the cheese from burning), and bake it in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes so the cheese gets perfectly melted and browned.
Step 7: Cool and serve.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This gives the layers a chance to settle and makes it easier to slice. Serve the hearty beef enchilada casserole in squares, and top it with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños.
Quick Tips
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add five extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Vegetarian option: Swap out the beef for black beans, pinto beans, or sautéed veggies (like bell peppers and zucchini).
- Spice level: Adjust the heat by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Conclusion
A beef enchilada casserole is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors but doesn’t have the time to hand-roll enchiladas. This dish is easy, satisfying, and feeds a crowd—it’s sure to become a family favorite! You’ll love the combination of savory beef, zesty sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in tender tortillas. Try this recipe the next time you’re craving Mexican-inspired cuisine, and watch everyone around the table dig in with a smile. Happy eating!
