BEEF ENCHILADA CASSEROLE

If you’re in the mood for a delicious twist on classic Mexican flavors, look no further than this Beef Enchilada Casserole. With layers of savory ground beef, hearty beans, soft corn tortillas, and melty cheese all enveloped in rich enchilada sauce, this dish is baked to perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying dinner option that pairs wonderfully with a fresh tossed salad or a side of Mexican rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, offering all the beloved flavors of traditional enchiladas but in a simpler, casserole form. It’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings, delivering cheesy, comforting bites every time. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Large saucepan (for homemade sauce)

Ingredients

Enchilada Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 10 oz can red enchilada sauce (or homemade, see below)
• 1 12 oz package frozen whole kernel corn
• 1 16 oz can of refried beans
• 12 soft corn tortillas
• 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend recommended)
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1.5 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 tsp salt

Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce:

• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 2.5 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 6 oz tomato sauce
• 1.5 cups water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
3. Spread a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
4. Cook the corn according to the package instructions.
5. Spread half of the refried beans evenly on 6 corn tortillas and arrange them over the sauce, beans side up.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining enchilada sauce, black beans, spices, corn, ground beef, undrained tomatoes, and salt. Mix well.
7. Layer half of the beef mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
8. Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortillas.
9. Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
10. Allow the casserole to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing into 8 or 12 pieces.
11. Top each slice with your favorite enchilada toppings, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the beef is fully cooked and well-drained to avoid a greasy casserole.
• For a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro. You can also substitute chicken or turkey for the beef for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 379kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 66mg
• Sodium: 835mg
• Potassium: 397mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 859IU
• Vitamin C: 2mg
• Calcium: 542mg
• Iron: 3mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftover casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

Give this Beef Enchilada Casserole a try and experience the comforting layers of flavor in each bite. It’s a fan-favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to the recipe!