Beef Enchilada Casserole

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This beef enchilada casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that brings all the flavors of traditional enchiladas with a lot less effort. It layers seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and soft tortillas in a rich enchilada sauce, baked together until bubbling and golden. The result is a crowd-pleasing, satisfying meal that hits every mark.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this casserole skips the time-consuming step of individually rolling enchiladas and instead delivers the same delicious flavor in a quicker, easier form. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchilada Casserole

This recipe is everything you want from a comfort dish: cheesy, meaty, saucy, and ultra-easy to throw together. It satisfies Tex-Mex cravings with minimal effort and uses pantry staples you likely already have. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, it’s bound to be a hit.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

Both corn and flour tortillas work well, depending on your texture preference. Corn tortillas offer a more authentic flavor and slightly firmer bite, while flour tortillas give a softer, more cohesive casserole texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn is the way to go.

Ingredients for the Beef Enchilada Casserole

The ingredients in this beef enchilada casserole are straightforward but pack a flavorful punch. Each layer contributes to the savory, comforting result.

• Ground beef
• Yellow onion
• Garlic cloves
• Enchilada sauce
• Taco seasoning
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Black beans (optional)
• Diced green chilies (optional)

The ground beef forms the hearty base. Sautéed with onion and garlic, it creates a savory and aromatic foundation. The enchilada sauce provides bold, zesty flavor that ties everything together. Taco seasoning amps up the spices, and the cheese blend adds gooeyness and flavor. Beans and chilies can be stirred into the meat layer for added texture and heat.

How To Make the Beef Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic. Drain any excess grease. Mix in the taco seasoning, half of the enchilada sauce, and optional green chilies or black beans.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. Spread a spoonful of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Layer tortillas (cut in half if needed) across the bottom of the dish. Spoon over some of the beef mixture, sprinkle with cheese, then repeat with more sauce, tortillas, beef, and cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store Your Casserole

This casserole feeds about 6 to 8 people, depending on portion sizes. Serve it fresh from the oven with a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer bag.

What to Serve With Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Mexican Rice

A side of fluffy Mexican rice balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Guacamole

Creamy guacamole adds a fresh and cooling contrast.

Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

Charred corn coated in creamy sauce and cheese pairs perfectly.

Garden Salad

A crisp salad with lime vinaigrette lightens up the plate.

Chips and Salsa

Classic, crunchy, and always a hit.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add a tangy kick that cuts through the richness.

Refried Beans

Creamy beans make for a hearty and traditional side.

Fresh Pineapple or Mango

A refreshing fruit side adds natural sweetness to the meal.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re loving the ease of this beef enchilada casserole, here are a few other satisfying casseroles you might enjoy:

• Easy Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe
• Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake
• Cheesy Baked Ziti
• Chicken and Dressing Casserole
• Amish Country Casserole Recipe

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I’d love to hear how your version turns out. Did you go spicy with extra chilies or keep it mild? Layered in extra cheese? Let me know in the comments. Your twist might inspire someone else.

Explore beautifully curated Tex-Mex and comfort food recipes over on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal.

Conclusion

This beef enchilada casserole is the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug. It combines all the flavors of your favorite enchiladas in a no-fuss format. With easy prep, customizable ingredients, and rich, layered flavor, it’s bound to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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