Name: Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

If you’re craving a dinner that’s both cozy and bursting with bold flavors, you’re going to fall in love with this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe. Imagine layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender corn tortillas soaked in rich enchilada sauce, gooey melted cheeses, and a touch of smoky spices all baked to golden perfection. It’s a casserole that brings the classic enchilada taste without the fuss of rolling each one individually, making it a favorite for weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you want a comforting, satisfying meal. Let me tell you, once you try this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl with four main layers of ingredients side by side: bright red diced tomatoes, black beans, ground meat mixed with spices, and a dark red sauce, all arranged neatly in separate sections. Above the bowl, there are four smaller white bowls with different spices and a small amount of oil positioned on a white marbled surface. To the right, a white baking dish holds four plain, stacked white tortilla wraps. A wooden spoon lies between the bowl and the baking dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a starring role in creating the perfect balance of texture, color, and irresistible flavor in the casserole. From the savory spiced beef to the creamy melted cheese blend and the soft but sturdy corn tortillas, every component adds something special to the dish.

1 pound ground beef: The hearty base, providing rich meaty flavor and satisfying protein.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation that cooks down to meld perfectly with the beef.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of warmth and depth that awakens the palate.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: The star saucy ingredient, bringing tangy, smoky, and slightly spicy notes.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides a fresh, juicy texture balancing the sauce’s richness.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber for nutrition and heartiness.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts a warm earthy flavor that’s signature in Mexican-inspired dishes.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a mild heat and complexity to the meat mixture.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the dish perfectly seasoned.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds just a subtle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
8 corn tortillas: Tender and slightly sweet, these form the tasty layers that hold everything together.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful, helping create that irresistible melty top layer.
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, blending beautifully with the cheddar for smooth stretchiness.
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Adds fresh color and a bright herbal note to finish the casserole.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F, then grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it starts to brown, mixing in the diced onion and minced garlic. Watching these aromatics soften and merge with the beef creates a deeply flavorful foundation. Be sure to drain off any excess fat for a lighter dish with clean flavors.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Mixture

Next, stir in the enchilada sauce, drained diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, along with the cumin and chili powder. This combination gets your familiar enchilada flavors singing in harmony. Season everything with salt and pepper, then let the mixture simmer for about five minutes to meld the spices and ingredients beautifully.

Step 3: Layer Your Casserole

Time to assemble! Spread four corn tortillas across the bottom of your prepared baking dish, allowing them to overlap slightly so no gaps remain. This makes a sturdy base for the layers above. Then spread half of your beef mixture evenly over the tortillas, and sprinkle half of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top. This layering ensures every bite has a perfect balance of meat, sauce, and ooey-gooey cheese.

Step 4: Repeat and Bake

Add another layer of four tortillas, followed by the remaining beef mixture and cheeses. Bake the entire casserole at 375°F for 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown on top. This baking step finishes melding the flavors and warms everything through for the perfect comforting meal.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set and make serving easier. For an optional fresh twist, sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley before serving. That splash of green not only brightens the plate but brings a lively herbal aroma that makes this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe even more inviting.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish filled with a layered dish. The bottom layer is dark brown, covered by a layer of yellow shredded cheese mixed with some white shredded cheese on top. Next to the baking dish is a white bowl with shredded yellow cheese, a white bowl with shredded white cheese, and an empty small white plate. To the left side, there is a white bowl with a thick brown mixture containing pieces of red and green vegetables, a wooden spoon inside. Below the bowl, there is a white tray holding five stacked, light beige circular tortillas. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really lift this casserole from delicious to next-level. Try a generous handful of chopped cilantro for brightness or diced avocado for creaminess. A dollop of sour cream adds a cooling touch, especially if you like a little contrast to the richness of the cheese and beef.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, consider simple sides like a crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette or Mexican-style street corn for a sweet and smoky flavor boost. A bowl of Spanish rice or refried beans also pairs beautifully and keeps with the cozy, hearty theme.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe shine at dinner parties by serving it family-style in a beautiful casserole dish placed center table. Individual servings can also be scooped into small ramekins and topped with extra cheese or sliced jalapeños for a cute and personalized touch. For casual meals, plate it with a fork and a side of tortilla chips for added crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness, and you’ll have quick, flavorful meals ready to heat and eat all week long.

Freezing

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Allow it to cool completely, wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F to preserve the casserole’s texture and flavor, typically for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even warmth. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese before warming keeps it extra melty and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn for this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! Flour tortillas can be used if you prefer their softer texture or if corn tortillas are hard to find. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas offer a more authentic flavor and hold the casserole structure a bit better.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or your favorite meatless crumble, and follow the same seasoning instructions. The beans and spices will keep the casserole hearty and flavorful.

What’s the best cheese combination for this casserole?

This recipe uses a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack cheese for a perfect balance of flavor and meltability, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack if you want a little extra kick.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How spicy is this Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe?

It has a gentle warmth from the chili powder and enchilada sauce but is not overly spicy. You can adjust the chili powder amount or add fresh jalapeños if you want to dial up the heat.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make, flavorsome, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. I really encourage you to give it a try soon — once you taste those layers of meat, beans, sauce, and cheese baked together, I bet it will find a permanent place in your recipe rotation just like it has in mine!

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need