Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe

If you love the taste of classic enchiladas but want a quicker, easier way to enjoy them, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the perfect solution! Packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, savory enchilada sauce, and soft corn tortillas, this casserole captures the delicious flavors of traditional enchiladas without the extra work of rolling tortillas. This hearty dish is easy to assemble and great for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for a weeknight meal. Let’s walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to create this satisfying and family-friendly casserole!

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What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a simplified, layered version of enchiladas where seasoned ground beef, cheese, enchilada sauce, and tortillas are layered in a baking dish and baked until bubbly. Unlike traditional enchiladas where tortillas are individually rolled, this casserole version stacks everything, making it less time-consuming while still delivering all the delicious flavors you love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a comforting meal that’s easy to prep and serve.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

• 1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef (85-90% lean) works best for flavor and texture without too much grease.
• 1 packet taco seasoning: Or make your own blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
• 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce: Use mild, medium, or hot depending on your spice preference.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds flavor and texture to the beef mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a subtle garlicky depth to the dish.
• 10-12 small corn tortillas: Corn tortillas give the dish an authentic enchilada flavor and texture.
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend): You can mix and match cheeses for extra flavor.
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional): Adds a mild, tangy kick.
• ½ cup sliced black olives (optional): For garnish or mixing into the casserole.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): For garnish and added freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations:

• Ground Meat Variations: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Choices: Besides cheddar and Monterey Jack, you can try Pepper Jack for extra spice or Colby Jack for a milder flavor.
• Tortilla Options: Stick with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
• Extra Spice: If you like your enchiladas spicy, add diced jalapeños or use a hot enchilada sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this delicious beef enchilada casserole, step by step:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Add onions and garlic: Stir in the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Season the beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and mix well. Then, add half of the can of enchilada sauce (about ¾ cup) and the diced green chilies if using. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Layer the tortillas: Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce (about ¼ cup) in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Lay 5-6 corn tortillas over the sauce, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom completely.
6. Add beef and cheese: Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with a generous layer of shredded cheese.
7. Repeat the layers: Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining beef mixture, and another layer of cheese. Finally, pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the top layer of cheese, spreading it evenly with a spoon.
8. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced black olives, or extra green onions, if desired. Slice into squares and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfectly:

• Use Thick Tortillas: Thicker corn tortillas hold up better during baking and won’t get as soggy as thinner ones. If your tortillas are too thin, you can lightly fry them in oil for a few seconds before layering.
• Drain Excess Grease: After browning the ground beef, make sure to drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Layering Evenly: Make sure to spread the beef mixture and cheese evenly across the tortilla layers for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Baking Time: Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking helps keep the moisture in, while removing it at the end allows the cheese to get golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading with Sauce: Using too much enchilada sauce can make the casserole soggy. Stick to the recommended amount and spread it evenly.
• Undercooking the Casserole: Make sure to bake the casserole until it’s fully heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The tortillas should be soft but not mushy.
• Forgetting to Drain the Beef: Always drain the ground beef after browning to avoid an overly greasy casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Beef Enchilada Casserole is golden and bubbling, it’s time to serve! Here are a few tips for presenting and serving this dish:

• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to help it firm up for easier slicing.
• Garnish Generously: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or black olives for added color and flavor.
• Serve with Sides: Pair this casserole with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

This casserole is a filling dish on its own, but here are some ideas to round out the meal:

• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce so everyone can customize their serving.
• With Mexican Rice: Serve the casserole alongside Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice for a hearty side.
• Crisp Salad: Pair with a light salad topped with avocado, tomatoes, and lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-friendly meal. Place it in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Individual Servings: Slice the casserole into neat squares and plate each portion with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on top for a more refined presentation.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When ready, simply pop it in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
• Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just follow the baking instructions.

Q: Can I freeze Beef Enchilada Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can freeze it unbaked or baked. If freezing after baking, allow the casserole to cool completely, then

wrap and freeze. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: What sides go well with Beef Enchilada Casserole?
A: Mexican rice, refried beans, a crisp green salad, or even chips and salsa make great sides for this casserole.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with beans or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd. With layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and soft corn tortillas smothered in flavorful enchilada sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Best of all, it’s versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that brings the taste of traditional enchiladas to your table—without the fuss!

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