Name: Beef Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green); 10–12 corn or flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional); 1 cup canned black beans or corn (optional); Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is quick, hearty, and full of Tex-Mex flavor. It’s much easier to make than individual enchiladas, and the layered format ensures every bite is saucy, cheesy, and delicious. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or potlucks—and can easily be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Enchilada sauce (red or green)
Corn tortillas or flour tortillas
Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Cumin
Chili powder
Paprika
Canned diced green chiles (optional)
Black beans or corn (optional mix-ins)
Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Add green chiles, black beans, or corn if using.
Pour in 1 cup of enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
Add a layer of tortillas, followed by the beef mixture, then cheese. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.
Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer and spread evenly.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef.
Add a layer of refried beans for extra richness.
Use green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
Make it spicy with jalapeños or hot sauce.
Use low-carb tortillas or omit tortillas and use a layer of rice for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
To freeze, assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

What’s the difference between enchiladas and enchilada casserole?

Traditional enchiladas are rolled individually, while enchilada casserole is layered like a lasagna—easier and quicker to prepare.

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?

Yes, store-bought sauce works perfectly, but you can also make your own if you prefer.

Corn or flour tortillas—which is better?

Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up well in baking, but flour tortillas offer a softer texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use corn tortillas and make sure your enchilada sauce is certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the casserole from getting soggy?

Lightly toast the tortillas or use less sauce between layers. Also, let it rest before serving to allow it to set.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or spinach can be sautéed and layered in for added nutrition.

What cheese works best?

A shredded Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are all excellent choices.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze cooled portions in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

What should I serve with beef enchilada casserole?

Great sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, a green salad, or chips and salsa.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a simple, satisfying twist on a classic dish—full of flavor, gooey cheese, and comforting layers. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping ahead for a busy week, this easy-to-make meal is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Beef Enchilada Casserole

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Beef Enchilada Casserole is a layered Tex-Mex dish made with seasoned ground beef, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. It delivers all the flavor of traditional enchiladas without the hassle of rolling, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Stir in green chiles, black beans, or corn if using.
Pour in 1 cup of enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
Layer tortillas to cover the bottom, then add a layer of beef mixture and cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and spread evenly.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.

Notes

Use ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter variation.
Green enchilada sauce offers a tangier flavor alternative to red.
To prevent sogginess, lightly toast tortillas before layering or use less sauce.
Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
This dish freezes well—assemble and freeze unbaked or freeze leftovers.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg