Beef Enchilada Casserole

Introduction

Bubbling, cheesy, and irresistibly aromatic, Beef Enchilada Casserole brings all the bold flavors of classic enchiladas into one easy, oven-baked dish. Layers of seasoned beef, soft tortillas, rich enchilada sauce, and melty cheese create a comforting meal that feels both familiar and exciting. This recipe stands out because it delivers authentic Tex-Mex taste without the extra work of rolling individual enchiladas. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, Beef Enchilada Casserole satisfies every craving in one scoop. You’ll learn how to layer, bake, and customize this casserole for perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe hits the sweet spot between comfort and convenience. Beef Enchilada Casserole offers bold, savory flavors with minimal prep, making it ideal for home cooks who want maximum payoff with less effort. The contrast of tender tortillas, juicy spiced beef, and gooey cheese keeps every bite exciting. Unlike traditional enchiladas, this casserole saves time and reduces mess, yet still delivers that slow-baked depth of flavor. It also works beautifully for meal prep, potlucks, or feeding a crowd. Whether you crave cozy weeknight dinners or a stress-free way to enjoy Tex-Mex classics, this dish delivers reliability, richness, and serious comfort.

Ingredients

To make this satisfying dish, you’ll need simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Use 1 pound (450 g) ground beef for a rich, hearty base. A medium onion, finely diced, adds sweetness, while 2 cloves of garlic boost aroma. Measure 2 cups (480 ml) red enchilada sauce for balanced heat and depth. You’ll also need 8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters, to form the layers. For seasoning, use 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Finish with 2 cups (200 g) shredded Mexican-blend cheese for that irresistible melt.

Pro Tips

Choose beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for the juiciest texture without excess grease. Brown it well to build flavor before layering. Warm tortillas briefly so they bend easily and absorb sauce evenly. For deeper flavor, simmer the enchilada sauce with spices for five minutes before assembling. Let the casserole rest after baking so layers set cleanly and slices hold their shape. These small steps elevate Beef Enchilada Casserole from good to unforgettable.

Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 2
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3
Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4
Pour in 1 cup of enchilada sauce and stir until the beef mixture is well coated. Remove from heat.

Step 5
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add a layer of tortilla pieces, followed by beef mixture and cheese.

Step 6
Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 7
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until cheese melts and edges bubble.

Step 8
Rest for 10 minutes before serving. This step helps the layers set beautifully.

Variations

Make it your own with easy swaps. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or swap mild enchilada sauce for hot. You can also create a vegetarian version by replacing beef with black beans and roasted vegetables. If you enjoy creamy casseroles, stir sour cream into the sauce. These options keep Beef Enchilada Casserole exciting and adaptable for every table.

Storage and Serving

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Serve with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a crisp green salad. Rice or refried beans make excellent sides. Beef Enchilada Casserole also shines as a party dish, sliced into neat squares for easy sharing.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is corn or flour tortilla better?
Corn tortillas hold up better and add authentic flavor.

Can I reduce the spice?
Use mild enchilada sauce and reduce chili powder.

How do I prevent soggy layers?
Do not over-sauce and allow resting time after baking.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger dish or two pans.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is comfort food at its finest — rich, cheesy, and layered with bold Tex-Mex flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, whether you’re feeding family on a busy night or sharing a cozy weekend meal with friends.