Go Back
beef enchilada casserole recipe
Ben Carraoli

beef enchilada casserole recipe

When I first made this beef enchilada casserole recipe, it was a total game-changer for our dinner routine. It’s flavorful, comforting, and loaded with gooey cheese and seasoned beef. I love how it brings together simple ingredients to create something that tastes like you spent hours cooking.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef — use lean ground beef for less grease.
  • 1 medium onion diced — gives sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced — adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1 can 10 oz red enchilada sauce — choose mild or spicy based on your taste.
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained — adds tang and moisture.
  • 1 can 4 oz diced green chiles — brings a mild kick.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder — classic Tex-Mex flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin — earthy and smoky undertone.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt — to season everything evenly.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — just a touch of spice.
  • 8 small corn tortillas cut into quarters — better texture than flour tortillas.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese — sharp melty, and flavorful.
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese — creamy and smooth.
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed — adds heartiness and fiber.
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives optional — salty bite and visual appeal.
  • Fresh cilantro chopped — for garnish and freshness.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish so the casserole doesn't stick later. It also makes cleanup a breeze.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. As it browns, break it up with your spoon for even texture. Once done, drain off the excess fat to keep things from getting too greasy.
  3. Add your diced onion and garlic into the skillet. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step really brings out the flavor. Now, pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and your spices — chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it all simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.
  4. Spoon a small layer of your beef mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of tortilla quarters over it. Scatter some black beans on top, followed by a generous handful of each cheese.
  5. Keep layering — meat, tortillas, beans, and cheese — until everything is used up. Make sure the top layer ends with a heavy sprinkle of cheese for that golden finish. If you like olives, now’s the time to scatter them across the top.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.