Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

Craving the bold, comforting flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant at home? This Beef Enchilada Casserole with corn tortillas delivers all the satisfaction of traditional enchiladas with a fraction of the work. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, I layer everything in a baking dish for a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

This hearty casserole combines seasoned ground beef, layers of corn tortillas, and a rich enchilada sauce, all topped with melted cheese. The result is a bubbling, golden dish that brings authentic Mexican flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss.

What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a deconstructed version of traditional enchiladas that captures all the same flavors in an easy-to-make layered format. Instead of the time-consuming process of filling and rolling individual tortillas, this casserole alternates layers of corn tortillas, seasoned beef filling, enchilada sauce, and cheese.

The beauty of this dish lies in its convenience without sacrificing authenticity. The corn tortillas soften as they bake, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce while maintaining their structural integrity. The ground beef is seasoned with traditional Mexican spices, creating a filling that’s both hearty and flavorful.

This casserole method makes serving easier too – simply cut into squares and serve, making it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or meal prep. Each serving contains all the elements of a perfect enchilada in every bite.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole

• 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce, divided
• 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray for greasing

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole involves layering components strategically to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced. Here’s my detailed guide to help you achieve the best results:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• This size dish is perfect for feeding 6-8 people generously.

2. Cook the Beef Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Cook for 6-8 minutes until the beef is completely browned and no pink remains.
• Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Season the Meat:

• Add taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder to the cooked beef.
• Stir in the diced green chiles and black beans.
• Add ½ cup of enchilada sauce to the mixture.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

4. Prepare the Tortillas:

• If your corn tortillas are stiff, warm them briefly in the microwave (30 seconds) or wrap in damp paper towels.
• This makes them more pliable and prevents cracking during assembly.

5. Layer the Casserole:

• Spread ½ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
• Place 4 corn tortillas in a single layer, overlapping slightly if needed.
• Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas.
• Sprinkle ⅓ of the Mexican cheese blend over the beef.
• Add another layer of 4 tortillas.
• Spread the remaining beef mixture over this layer.
• Add another ⅓ of the cheese.
• Top with the final 4 tortillas.

6. Final Assembly:

• Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top layer of tortillas.
• Make sure the sauce reaches the edges to prevent the tortillas from drying out.
• Sprinkle the remaining Mexican cheese blend and all of the Monterey Jack cheese on top.
• Cover tightly with aluminum foil.

7. Bake the Casserole:

• Bake covered for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• The edges should be slightly golden and the casserole should be heated through.
• Let rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting to allow the layers to set.

8. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and sliced green onions over the top.
• Cut into squares and serve hot.
• Each serving should show distinct layers when plated.

Substitutions and Variations

This versatile recipe adapts well to different dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Here are some substitutions and variations I recommend:

• Meat Options: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for different flavor profiles. You can also use leftover shredded chicken or beef.
• Tortilla Alternatives: While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas work well too. You can also try whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, queso fresco, or pepper jack for varying heat levels.
• Sauce Options: Use green enchilada sauce instead of red for a tangier flavor, or make your own sauce from scratch using dried chiles.
• Bean Substitutions: Try pinto beans, kidney beans, or refried beans instead of black beans. You can omit beans entirely if preferred.
• Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers, corn kernels, or diced tomatoes make excellent additions to the beef mixture.
• Spice Level: Adjust heat by using mild or hot enchilada sauce, adding jalapeños, or including cayenne pepper in the seasoning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using Cold Tortillas: Stiff tortillas are more likely to crack. Always warm them slightly before layering.
• Insufficient Sauce: Don’t skimp on the enchilada sauce. It keeps the tortillas moist and adds crucial flavor.
• Overcooking the Beef: Cook the ground beef just until browned to prevent it from becoming tough and dry.
• Skipping the Rest Period: Let the casserole rest after baking so the layers set properly and make cleaner cuts.
• Not Covering During Initial Baking: The foil cover prevents the top from browning too quickly while ensuring even heating.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese Exclusively: While convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and has better flavor.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

This hearty casserole serves beautifully as a complete meal, but complementary sides enhance the dining experience. I recommend serving it with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple cilantro-lime rice. A crisp green salad with avocado and lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole.

Traditional Mexican accompaniments like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pickled jalapeños allow guests to customize their portions. Warm corn or flour tortillas on the side are perfect for scooping up every delicious bite.

For beverages, consider serving with horchata, Mexican beer, or agua frescas. The cooling effect of these drinks balances the warm spices in the casserole beautifully.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

To make your casserole as visually appealing as it is delicious, try these presentation tips:

• Colorful Garnishes: Top with diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.
• Individual Portions: Cut into squares and plate individually, garnishing each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a lime wedge.
• Rustic Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish with colorful Mexican pottery and linens for an authentic feel.
• Layered Cross-Section: When cutting, ensure each piece shows the beautiful layers for an impressive presentation.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are my best tips for casserole success:

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezer Instructions: This casserole freezes well before or after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Leftover Magic: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven. The flavors often improve after a day in the refrigerator.
• Size Matters: For a smaller family, halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch dish, reducing baking time by 5-10 minutes.
• Quality Ingredients: Use good-quality enchilada sauce and freshly shredded cheese for the best flavor results.

How to Store Beef Enchilada Casserole

Proper storage ensures your casserole maintains its quality and safety. Allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating, but don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.

Refrigerated casserole will keep for 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, add a splash of water or extra enchilada sauce to prevent drying out. Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Yes, flour tortillas work well in this recipe. They’ll create a slightly different texture – softer and more bread-like – but equally delicious.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
A: The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, the edges are lightly golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out hot.

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use plant-based ground meat substitute.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place covered portions in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the recipe and use two 9×13-inch dishes or one very large roasting pan. Baking time may need to be increased by 5-10 minutes.

Q: How spicy is this casserole?
A: The spice level depends on your enchilada sauce and seasoning choices. This recipe is mild to medium, but you can adjust heat by choosing spicier sauce or adding jalapeños.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with corn tortillas brings all the beloved flavors of traditional enchiladas to your table with significantly less effort. The layered approach creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding families or entertaining guests. Each bite delivers the perfect combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and authentic Mexican spices.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can customize ingredients to suit your family’s preferences while maintaining the core flavors that make it so appealing. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner party, this casserole delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different cheeses, spice levels, and accompaniments. The foundation is solid, but the possibilities for personalization are endless. Enjoy the process of creating this comforting dish, and savor the smiles it brings to your dinner table. Happy cooking!