If there’s one dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, it’s this Enchilada Casserole Recipe. With layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and gooey cheddar cheese nestled between soft corn tortillas and drenched in rich red enchilada sauce, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that balances hearty flavors with a touch of spice. This casserole is not only easy to make but brings the vibrant essence of Mexican-inspired home cooking right to your table, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Enchilada Casserole Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in bringing those bold flavors and satisfying textures together. From the savory beef and aromatic spices to the creamy cheese and tangy enchilada sauce, every component works in harmony to create a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty base that makes this casserole filling and flavorful.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a mild crunch to complement the rich beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for infusing the mixture with warm, fragrant aroma.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Brings protein and a creamy texture, balancing the meatiness.
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce: The star sauce that ties every layer together with its tangy, spicy depth.
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies: Adds a mild, smoky heat and bursts of flavor.
- 8 small corn tortillas: The perfect soft and slightly chewy layers that soak up all those wonderful flavors.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to top the casserole with gooey richness.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Gives an earthy warmth and authentic Mexican flair.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Provides subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finish to the casserole.
How to Make Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get everything ready for baking. This ensures that once your casserole goes in, it cooks evenly and the cheese melts to golden perfection.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Aromatics
In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their fragrant aroma. This step creates a flavorful base that sets the tone for the whole dish.
Step 3: Add Beans, Spices, and Chilies
Stir in the black beans and diced green chilies, followed by cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to meld beautifully with the beef and vegetables. This is where those vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors really start to shine.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Spread a thin, even layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then place four tortillas over the sauce, overlapping them slightly if needed to create a solid base. Layer half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas, spoon half of the remaining enchilada sauce on top, and sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, sauce, and cheese for a perfectly structured casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This step lets the flavors meld and the casserole to heat through without drying out. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, so the cheese melts into bubbly, slightly golden perfection. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes; this helps the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh cilantro on top of your enchilada casserole not only brightens up the presentation but also introduces a refreshing herbaceous note that balances the rich, cheesy layers. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice can also elevate each bite and add a little zing.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its bold flavors without overpowering them. Think a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some Mexican-style rice and refried beans to keep the meal hearty and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins or cast-iron skillets directly from the oven — it’s perfect for dinner parties or potlucks. You can also try layering in flour tortillas instead of corn for a softer texture or sprinkle some diced avocado and jalapeños on top for added creaminess and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your delicious enchilada casserole has cooled, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick and hearty lunch or dinner option the next day with all the flavors still intact.
Freezing
This Enchilada Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully! Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, then wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the thawed casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes if you want to revive that bubbly cheese topping. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven method gives the best texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with chicken or turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work perfectly in this Enchilada Casserole Recipe and make for a lighter option while still absorbing all those fantastic spices and flavors.
What if I don’t have corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas can be used instead for a softer, less traditional texture. Just warm them slightly before layering to prevent cracking.
Is this recipe spicy?
This casserole has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and green chilies. You can always adjust by adding more chili powder or jalapeños if you like it hotter, or omit the spices for a gentler flavor.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra beans, sautéed vegetables, or even crumbled tofu to maintain the heartiness without losing the delicious texture.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a slight golden crust, and the layers are heated through. Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set for easy serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s warm, cheesy, layered with bold flavors, and downright satisfying, this Enchilada Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to meals for a reason!
Print
Enchilada Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This delicious Enchilada Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, and a flavorful enchilada sauce layered between corn tortillas and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a hearty and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Beans and Sauces
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
Additional Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until completely browned. Drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add Beans and Spices: Stir in the black beans, diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of the red enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer Tortillas: Arrange 4 corn tortillas over the sauce, slightly overlapping to cover the surface.
- Add Filling: Spread half of the meat and bean mixture over the tortillas, then pour half of the remaining enchilada sauce on top, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining 4 tortillas, meat mixture, sauce, and cheese to build a second layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and melt ingredients.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or increase chili powder.
- Use beef with lean content to reduce fat.
- You can substitute black beans with pinto beans if preferred.
- To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with sautéed vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Letting the casserole rest helps flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
- This dish reheats well for leftovers; bake covered at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
