Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty casserole, especially when it’s as flavorful as this Beef Enchilada Casserole. Picture layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef mingling with zesty tomatoes and creamy cheeses, all enveloped in warm tortillas. It’s the ultimate Tex-Mex dish, perfect for family gatherings or casual weekday dinners. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying delicious food with your loved ones!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 large tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and warm for baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s perfectly browned, breaking it up into crumbly pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat for a cleaner dish.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion becomes tender and translucent, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips at the bottom to create a sturdy base.
- Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas, ensuring every strip is covered.
- Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a rich layer of cheesy goodness.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, and cheese, creating a mouth-watering tower of flavors.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to let all those wonderful ingredients meld together.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Notes or Tips
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is versatile—feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or adjust the level of spices to suit your taste! Leftovers make for delightful lunches the next day, and it can easily be frozen before baking for a quick meal later on.
Cooking Techniques
To get the ground beef perfectly browned, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meat. This will enhance the flavor and give a lovely texture. Layering the casserole allows each ingredient to shine, creating a balanced flavor profile that your family will adore.
FAQ
Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work beautifully and keep the dish lighter.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, flour tortillas can be used! They will give the dish a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
Conclusion
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is sure to become a family favorite, providing comfort in every bite. With its rich flavors, gooey cheese, and satisfying textures, it brings a little piece of Tex-Mex heaven right to your dinner table. Enjoy creating this wonderful dish and happy eating!