Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe

If you're craving a delicious and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a must-try! It’s loaded with layers of flavorful ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and hearty corn tortillas, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This casserole takes all the classic flavors of enchiladas and simplifies the process by turning them into a baked, easy-to-serve dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this beef enchilada casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

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What is Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delicious layered dish that combines all the elements of traditional enchiladas into one easy casserole. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, you simply layer seasoned beef, corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, and cheese, then bake it until hot and bubbly. The corn tortillas soften as they bake, absorbing the rich enchilada sauce and blending perfectly with the seasoned beef and melted cheese, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy, cheesy beef enchilada casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 10-12 small corn tortillas, cut in half
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 cup black beans or pinto beans (optional)
• ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)

For Toppings (Optional):

• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Diced tomatoes
• Jalapeños
• Avocado or guacamole

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is easily adaptable, so feel free to make it your own. Here are some popular variations:

• Chicken or Turkey: Substitute the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken or ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and add more beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make a vegetarian enchilada casserole.
• Different Cheeses: If you don’t have cheddar cheese on hand, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Green Enchilada Sauce: Swap the red enchilada sauce for green enchilada sauce for a tangy, slightly milder flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicier casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of oil.
2. Cook the beef filling:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Optional: Stir in the diced green chiles and beans if using. Mix everything together until combined, then remove from heat.

1. Prepare the layers:

• Spread about ¼ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent sticking.
• Place a layer of corn tortilla halves on top of the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.

1. Assemble the casserole:

• Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly.
• Pour ½ cup of enchilada sauce over the beef layer and sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.
• Add another layer of tortilla halves on top of the cheese, followed by the remaining beef mixture, another ½ cup of enchilada sauce, and ½ cup of cheese.
• Finish with a final layer of tortillas, the rest of the enchilada sauce, and the remaining cheese on top.

1. Bake the casserole:

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

1. Let it rest:

• Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help the layers set and make serving easier.

1. Garnish and serve:

• Top the casserole with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, diced tomatoes, or avocado. Slice and serve warm.

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

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Cook the beef with onions, garlic, and spices until fragrant and browned.
2. Layer with Tortillas: Layer corn tortillas, beef, sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish.
3. Bake: Bake covered with foil, then uncovered until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Layering Enough Sauce: The sauce is essential to keep the tortillas soft and prevent them from drying out. Make sure each layer is well-coated with enchilada sauce.
2. Overcooking the Beef: Avoid overcooking the ground beef in the skillet, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Cook until just browned.
3. Skipping Rest Time: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is filling enough to serve on its own, but you can round out the meal with a few side dishes:

• Mexican Rice: A side of Mexican rice is a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Refried Beans or Black Beans: Serve alongside refried or black beans for extra protein and texture.
• Chips and Salsa: A bowl of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole makes a great appetizer or side dish.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Cut the casserole into squares or wedges and use a spatula to lift each serving onto plates.
• Garnish with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes for a fresh finish.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Serve the casserole in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Garnish the top with a drizzle of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or jalapeño slices for a pop of color.
• For an individual touch, serve the casserole in small, personal-sized baking dishes or ramekins.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake as directed.
• Freezing Instructions: You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftover Tortillas: If you have extra corn tortillas, you can use them to make homemade tortilla chips. Cut them into wedges, toss with oil and salt, and bake until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer, but keep in mind that corn tortillas are more traditional and hold up better in the casserole without becoming too soft.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

Can I freeze beef enchilada casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. For best results, freeze it before baking and thaw it in the fridge before cooking.

What enchilada sauce should I use?
Store-bought enchilada sauce works great, but if you want to make your own, you can use a simple homemade version with tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic, and cumin.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves the flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of bold flavors, making it the perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering layers of beef, tortillas, and cheese, this casserole is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Try it out and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make!

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