Elevate your dinner with this mouthwatering beef enchilada casserole recipe. Combining tender beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and layers of cheese, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, it will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 15g of fat. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the black beans and corn until heated through.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 4 tortillas over the sauce, overlapping them slightly.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and top with sauce and cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Black beans can be replaced with pinto beans, and you can use gluten-free tortillas if needed.
Serving and Pairings
This beef enchilada casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, guacamole, and sour cream. For drinks, consider serving it with a refreshing margarita or iced tea.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake in the oven until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much or too little sauce can affect the flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the beef can make it tough; cook just until browned.
- Not layering properly may cause uneven cooking.
- Skipping the cheese will result in a less creamy texture.
- Not letting it rest after baking can make it hard to serve.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade enchilada sauce for a fresher taste.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for added flavor.
- Add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils, and make sure to use vegetable broth in the sauce.
What other toppings can I add?
Other toppings can include diced avocado, sliced olives, or chopped green onions to enhance flavor and presentation.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on the enchilada sauce used. You can choose mild sauce for less heat or add fresh chilies for more spice.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil. Bake it directly from frozen, adding additional baking time as needed.
Conclusion
This beef enchilada casserole is a delicious and hearty meal that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it is sure to please both family and friends. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 10 oz enchilada sauce
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the black beans and corn until heated through.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 4 tortillas over the sauce, overlapping them slightly.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and top with sauce and cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
