Description
A hearty and delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole that layers seasoned ground beef, tender tortillas, and melted cheese in a savory enchilada sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole combines classic Mexican flavors with a convenient baking method to create a cheesy, flavorful meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies (optional)
Casserole Layers
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, divided
Garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the meat.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the spices become fragrant, mixing well to evenly coat the beef.
- Add Sauce and Chilies: Pour in the enchilada sauce and diced green chilies if using. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread one-third of the tortilla pieces evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture and sprinkle with 2/3 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layering with another third of tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, and another 2/3 cup of cheese. Finish by topping with the last third of tortillas and the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream if desired.
Notes
- Use slightly stale tortillas to prevent them from becoming too soggy during baking.
- For added flavor and texture, consider adding a can of black beans or corn to the beef mixture.
- This casserole can be assembled the day before and baked fresh when ready to serve.
