Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re looking for a dish that’s not just easy to make but also downright delicious, then this beef enchilada casserole is calling your name! Seriously, it’s a perfect recipe for beginners—no fancy techniques or complicated steps here. Just layer, bake, and enjoy! The blend of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and hearty beans wrapped up in warm tortillas creates a cozy meal that the whole family will adore. Trust me, once you make this a regular in your weekly menu, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!). So, let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your beef enchilada casserole. It’s a straightforward list, and you might already have some of them in your kitchen!

• 1 pound ground beef – I like to use lean beef for a healthier option, but any ground beef works well!
• 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce – This is the star of the show, adding all that delicious flavor. You can use mild or spicy, depending on your taste!
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained – These add some great texture and protein. Rinse them under cold water for a cleaner taste.
• 1 cup corn – Frozen or canned corn both work perfectly here. It adds sweetness and crunch!
• 2 cups shredded cheese – Go for a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that melty goodness. Trust me, the more cheese, the better!
• 8 corn tortillas – You can cut them into pieces if they don’t fit perfectly in your baking dish. No worries!
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – This adds a nice punch of flavor. You can use fresh garlic if you prefer!
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – It gives that oniony goodness without the hassle of chopping.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! It’s essential for bringing out all the flavors.

How to Prepare Beef Enchilada Casserole

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious beef enchilada casserole together! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step so it’s as stress-free as possible.

Preheat and Brown the Beef

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a skillet and place it over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your pound of ground beef. You’ll want to cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat—it keeps the casserole from getting greasy!

Season the Beef

Now that your beef is all cooked up, it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I usually go for about a teaspoon of each, but feel free to adjust to your taste. Mix everything together really well so those spices get evenly distributed—trust me, this makes a huge difference in flavor!

Assemble the Casserole

Let’s layer this beauty! Start by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish—this keeps everything moist and flavorful. Then, place four corn tortillas over the sauce, tearing them if you need to fit them nicely. Next, add half of your beef mixture, followed by half the black beans and corn. Now, sprinkle about a cup of shredded cheese on top. Repeat this layering process: tortillas, beef, beans, corn, and finish with the rest of the cheese. Oh, and don’t forget to pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top to keep it all nice and saucy!

Bake and Serve

Pop your casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is all bubbly and slightly golden on top. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. This resting time helps everything set nicely, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your hearty, comforting beef enchilada casserole!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect beef enchilada casserole is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time:

• Don’t skip the seasoning! Make sure to season your beef well. Tasting as you go can help you find that perfect balance.
• Layering is key. Be generous with your sauce and cheese between layers to keep everything moist and flavorful.
• Watch your bake time. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your casserole. You want that cheese beautifully melted, not burnt!
• Let it rest. Giving the casserole a few minutes to cool before serving helps it hold its shape better when you cut into it.
• Feel free to experiment! Add your favorite veggies or spices to the mix—this dish is super versatile!

Nutritional Information

Nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so keep that in mind! However, here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving of beef enchilada casserole (about 1/6 of the casserole):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, and enjoy this delicious meal without worry!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or chicken. Both options work wonderfully and will still give you that hearty, comforting vibe. Just make sure to season them well, as turkey can be a bit more bland on its own. You could even try using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option—delicious and super easy!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Just let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make this casserole ahead of time! Just assemble it as directed but don’t bake it right away. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook it, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the last-minute prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: You can whip this up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
• Easy ingredients: Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t need to make a special trip to the store.
• Family-friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory flavors.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce creates a tasty dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or add-ins—this casserole can be whatever you want it to be!

Serving Suggestions

To make your beef enchilada casserole even more delightful, consider serving it with a fresh side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for a pop of brightness. Some crispy tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole make for a perfect crunchy companion, too! If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, a chilled margarita or a fruity iced tea pairs beautifully with the warm, cheesy goodness of the casserole. These simple sides will elevate your meal and impress your family or guests!

For more delicious recipes, check out this easy enchilada bake recipe or these Mexican recipes for beginners.

Beef Enchilada Casserole: 5 Steps to Easy Comfort!

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A tasty and easy beef enchilada casserole perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Mix well.
4. In a baking dish, spread a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
5. Layer 4 tortillas over the sauce, tearing them if necessary to fit.
6. Add half of the beef mixture, followed by half the black beans and half the corn.
7. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese on top.
8. Repeat the layers: tortillas, beef, beans, corn, and finish with the remaining cheese.
9. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top.
10. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
11. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use a mix of cheese for extra flavor.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: beef enchilada casserole, easy dinner, beginner recipe