Beef Enchilada Casserole
Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that layers seasoned ground beef, soft tortillas, melty cheese, and a rich, flavorful enchilada sauce. It’s like all the best parts…
Tip: save now, cook later.Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that layers seasoned ground beef, soft tortillas, melty cheese, and a rich, flavorful enchilada sauce. It’s like all the best parts of enchiladas come together in one easy-to-make casserole with gooey cheese and a little bit of spice that warms you up.
I love making this casserole when I want a meal that’s simple to prepare but still feels special. I usually brown the beef with onions and a mix of spices that give it that classic enchilada flavor, then layer everything so each bite has a bit of meat, sauce, and cheese. One of my favorite tips is to let it rest for a few minutes after baking, so the layers set up nicely and it’s easier to serve.
This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep because it reheats so well. I like to serve it with a side of fresh salsa or a dollop of sour cream to cool down the heat. It reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone digs in with big smiles—this casserole really brings people together around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole, bringing rich flavor and texture. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken; just be sure to season well to boost flavor.
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but homemade sauce lets you control spice and depth. If you have trouble finding it, enchilada seasoning mixed with tomato sauce works too.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas add authentic flavor, but flour tortillas are softer and easier to layer. If you want a gluten-free dish, use corn tortillas that are certified gluten-free.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a tangy touch. Mexican blend cheese is also great if you want more complex flavors. Vegans can substitute with dairy-free cheese.
How Do You Layer a Casserole for the Best Flavor and Texture?
Layering well makes sure every bite has a balance of beef, sauce, tortillas, and cheese. Here’s my simple way:
- Start with a thin layer of beef mixture so it doesn’t stick.
- Add tortillas next – cutting them helps fit the pan and makes serving easier.
- Add more beef sauce to keep layers moist.
- Sprinkle cheese on top of each layer for gooey, melty goodness.
- Repeat layers until ingredients run out, finishing off with a generous cheese layer for that golden crust.
- Cover with foil while baking to lock in moisture, then uncover near the end to melt cheese perfectly.
Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set the layers, so it cuts and serves nicely without falling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the beef and cooking the sauce all in one pan.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering the casserole evenly and baking it thoroughly.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – handy for stirring the beef mixture and spreading layers in the dish.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep the casserole moist while baking and prevents the cheese from burning.
- Cheese grater – makes shredding cheese easy and ensures it melts smoothly over the casserole.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for shredded chicken for a lighter, but still tasty casserole.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and a subtle sweetness.
- Mix in chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce if you like more heat.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a little spicy kick instead of cheddar.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce (or homemade enchilada sauce)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
For the Layers:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into halves or quarters
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake, plus resting time. In total, plan for about 50 minutes from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Mixture:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Sauce and Tomatoes:
Pour the red enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the beef mixture. Stir well to combine, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom. Next, place a layer of tortilla pieces over the beef. Add more beef mixture on top of the tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake and Serve:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes so it sets up nicely before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like, and enjoy warm!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even browning and proper cooking texture.
Can I Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a few hours or even a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if it seems dry.
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour?
Yes, corn tortillas are a great choice and add authentic flavor. To prevent dryness or cracking, lightly warm them before assembling so they become more pliable and easier to layer.