If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that bursts with bold flavors and layers of cheesy goodness, this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender ground beef seasoned just right with cumin, chili powder, and garlic, all nestled between soft corn tortillas and then bathed in a rich tomato sauce with a kick of green chiles. Topped with melted colby jack cheese, this casserole is a Mexican-inspired marvel that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s satisfying, easy to make, and delivers that warm, home-cooked vibe everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, accessible ingredients is the first step to nailing this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the aromatic spices that build the flavor base to the creamy cheese that holds it all together. Let’s break down what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and giving the beef a fabulous sear.
- 1 small diced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and texture to the savory filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Helps bring out all the delicious flavors evenly.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: Introduces a warm, earthy depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Brings a subtle smoky heat essential for that enchilada flair.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the tomato sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 15 ounces tomato sauce: The rich base that ties everything together with bright acidity.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor, keeping the casserole juicy.
- 2 minced garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with a fragrant punch of garlic.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein foundation; ground chicken works too for a lighter option.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: For seasoning the meat just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the spices.
- 1 small diced yellow onion: Double up for extra flavor and texture in the layers.
- 4.5 ounces diced green chiles: Gives the casserole a zesty warmth without overwhelming heat.
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and a creamy texture contrast.
- 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size): The soft, slightly toasted layers that hold everything together.
- 3 cups shredded colby jack cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey topping.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Start with heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the diced onions and a pinch of kosher salt. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent — about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds. Next, add the ground beef, stirring and breaking it apart, cooking until no longer pink. Season with salt and black pepper for balance.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well, cooking for a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Then add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, diced green chiles, and stir everything together. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened and aromatic, about 5 to 7 minutes. This vibrant sauce will be the heartbeat of your casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas
Lightly warm your corn tortillas to make them pliable; this prevents cracking when you layer them. You can quickly warm them in a dry skillet or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds. Soft tortillas create the perfect texture contrast alongside the hearty filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef sauce to prevent sticking. Layer 3 to 4 tortillas to cover the bottom, then add a third of the beef mixture, black beans, diced onions, and sprinkle a generous handful of shredded colby jack cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with cheese on top to get that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Keep your eye on that cheese – it should be melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before slicing; this helps it set and makes serving much easier.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe with fresh and vibrant garnishes. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds brightness and creaminess. Thinly sliced green onions, jalapeño slices, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can awaken the flavors and add an extra pop.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides simple and complementary to the casserole’s bold flavors. A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness, and Mexican rice or refried beans make hearty, traditional accompaniments that round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, try serving individual portions in small cast iron skillets or ramekins. Layering the casserole in clear glass dishes also looks stunning, showing off the colorful layers of tortillas, beef, beans, and cheese. You can even turn leftovers into crunchy enchilada casserole burrito bowls by adding avocado and pico de gallo on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. When you’re ready, enjoy the casserole cold or reheated for a quick, satisfying meal.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead of time, this casserole freezes well either baked or unbaked. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, making it a fantastic option for busy days or last-minute dinners.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through or heat the entire casserole in a preheated 350°F oven until bubbly, about 20 minutes. Covering it loosely with foil during reheating will help keep the cheese from burning while ensuring the casserole remains moist.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner protein that works wonderfully in this casserole. Keep the same seasoning measurements, but be mindful not to overcook the turkey, as it can dry out more quickly than beef.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for extra beans, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms, or a plant-based beef substitute. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to develop that hearty flavor.
What cheese works best for Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe?
Colby jack cheese is ideal due to its excellent meltability and mild flavor. However, you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination for a sharper or creamier finish.
Can I prepare the casserole a day ahead of time?
Definitely, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed depending on your oven.
How spicy is the casserole?
The casserole has a gentle spice thanks to the chili powder and diced green chiles, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. You can easily adjust the heat level by choosing mild, medium, or hot chili powders and chiles according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather around the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to become a trusted favorite with its layers of hearty meat, melty cheese, and zesty sauce. I hope you jump in and give it a try soon — it’s comfort food done right, and it always delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that layers tender ground beef seasoned with cumin and chili powder, black beans, corn tortillas, and melted colby jack cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole combines Mexican spices and convenient ingredients for an easy baked meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound ground beef (can be swapped with ground chicken)
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small diced yellow onion (divided into two parts)
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 4.5 ounces diced green chiles
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
Spices & Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus 1/2 teaspoon salt for beef)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- 3 cups shredded colby jack cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half the diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, ground beef, kosher salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and chili powder. Cook until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
- Add flour and liquids: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked beef and stir to combine. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then add diced green chiles and black beans. Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Preheat oven and prepare casserole dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the casserole: Begin with a layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the dish. Top with a layer of corn tortillas, overlapping as needed. Sprinkle a layer of shredded colby jack cheese. Repeat layering the beef mixture, tortillas, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm as a hearty main dish.
Notes
- Ground chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free corn tortillas and flour if you require a gluten-free casserole.
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- You can substitute the colby jack cheese with cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
