If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines the heartiness of a casserole with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It layers tender seasoned ground beef, saucy enchilada flavors, and melty cheese across crispy corn tortilla strips, creating a dish that’s bursting with warmth and irresistible texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a satisfying way to bring a little fiesta into your home kitchen with straightforward ingredients and steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding texture, or delivering that beautiful finished color. The components are simple but together create a magical balance of savory, cheesy, and mildly spicy notes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that delivers protein and richness throughout the casserole.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, perfectly complementing the beef.
- 1 packet enchilada seasoning mix: Packs the casserole with authentic smoky and spicy flavors effortlessly.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: The saucy binder that keeps everything moist and saucy with bold enchilada taste.
- 10-12 corn tortillas, cut into strips: For layering; they soften in the oven but maintain a slight chew to provide texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts beautifully into gooey pockets of indulgence throughout each bite.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional): Adds a mild heat and a fresh bite if you want a little extra kick.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for topping): Adds creamy tang when dolloped on top at serving time.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish: Provides bright herbal notes and an inviting finish.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature to melt the cheese and heat everything through evenly without drying it out.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. This combines the foundational flavors and creates the juicy base for your casserole.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Stir in the enchilada seasoning mix, enchilada sauce, and if you’re using them, the diced green chilies. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together, turning this into a rich and well-loved filling.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grab a baking dish and start by layering half of the tortilla strips at the bottom. Next, spread half of your beef mixture evenly over the tortillas followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these steps to create a beautiful layered casserole that promises a perfect bite every time.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt into golden, bubbly perfection while all the layers meld into one incredible dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool just slightly before topping with a generous scoop of sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro. These final touches add creaminess and herbal freshness that balances the rich beef and melted cheese splendidly.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro are classic toppings that brighten the dish and add a cool contrast to the warm, spicy casserole. You can also add diced avocados or sliced jalapeños for extra texture and zing.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe with a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans makes for a satisfying, well-rounded meal. These sides complement the richness and bring balance to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins to impress guests at a dinner party or turn leftovers into enchilada-stuffed burritos for a quick lunch. You can also drizzle with a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle with cotija cheese for a twist when serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors have more time to deepen.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed for a fresh-from-scratch taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the tortilla strips from becoming soggy. Microwaving works for quick reheats but may affect the texture slightly.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas offer a softer texture but won’t have quite the same authentic chew and slight crisp of corn tortillas. Both work well depending on your preference.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for seasoned black beans, lentils, or chopped mushrooms to maintain the hearty texture without meat.
How spicy is this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe?
The dish has a mild to moderate heat level because of the enchilada seasoning and optional green chilies. You can adjust the spice by adding more chilies or using a hotter sauce.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare it up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
A Mexican blend or sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and offers flavor complexity, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to dish whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just craving that perfect cheesy comfort food. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
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 Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The optional diced green chilies add a mild kick, and the dish is topped with fresh cilantro and sour cream for extra creaminess and freshness.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 packet enchilada seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
Casserole Layers
- 10–12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and fully cooked, ensuring it’s crumbly and no longer pink inside.
- Season the beef: Add the enchilada seasoning mix, enchilada sauce, and optional diced green chilies to the cooked beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together well.
- Layer the casserole: In a baking dish, start by layering half of the tortilla strips evenly. Then add half of the beef mixture on top, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers to build the casserole.
- 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, indicating the casserole is heated through and ready to serve.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Top with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious beef enchilada casserole!
Notes
- The diced green chilies are optional but add a nice mild heat and extra flavor.
- For a spicier casserole, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
- You can substitute corn tortillas with flour tortillas if preferred.
- Leftovers keep well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Reheat thoroughly before serving.
