The BEST Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delicious, layered dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and tender tortillas all baked in a rich, zesty enchilada sauce. It’s like all the best parts of classic enchiladas combined into one easy, comforting casserole that everyone will love.
I love making this casserole when I want something hearty but simple to prepare. The layers of beef, gooey cheese, and sauce make every bite flavorful and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great recipe to make ahead and pop in the oven right before dinner, which means less stress and more time to relax.
My favorite way to serve this beef enchilada casserole is with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and some sliced avocado on top. It adds a fresh touch that balances the savory flavors perfectly. This dish always brings smiles to the table and makes for great leftovers too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the star protein. I prefer 80/20 lean-to-fat for juicy, flavorful results. You can swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Onion, garlic & bell pepper: These build a tasty base. If you don’t have bell pepper, a mild poblano or even zucchini works well.
Black beans: They add texture and protein. For a different twist, you can use pinto beans or skip beans altogether if you prefer.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds good flavor. Mexican cheese blends are great too. For dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese.
Enchilada sauce: This sauce makes the dish zesty and moist. Store-bought works fine, but homemade adds a fresh touch if you have time. Red sauce is classic, but feel free to try green salsa verde for a different flavor.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas give a traditional texture and flavor, but flour tortillas add softness. Either works well here.
How Do I Layer the Casserole for Best Flavor and Texture?
Proper layering is key to a well-balanced casserole that holds together and tastes great in every bite. Follow these tips:
- Sauce first: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the dish bottom to keep tortillas from sticking and add moisture.
- Layer tortillas evenly: Tear them if needed to cover all spots so filling doesn’t leak through.
- Spread beef mixture: Use an even layer so each slice has a good beef-to-cheese ratio.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour sauce evenly over the beef layer, then sprinkle cheese for gooey magic.
- Repeat layers: Aim for three layers so flavors build up nicely without being too thick.
- Finish with cheese: A thick cheese top layer browns nicely and seals in flavor.
These steps help the casserole bake evenly and hold its shape when served. Plus, the layers keep each bite full of tasty goodness!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the beef and sautéing veggies all in one pan.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – gives enough space for layering the casserole evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up the ground beef and mixing ingredients.
- Aluminum foil – helps cover the casserole during baking to keep it moist.
- Cheese grater – handy if you shred your own cheddar or cheese blend for melty topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still tastes great.
- Add corn kernels or diced zucchini for extra veggies and a bit of sweetness.
- Mix in green chilies or jalapeños to boost the heat when you like spice.
- Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a creamier texture and mild flavor twist.
The BEST Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 8-10 corn or flour tortillas
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for sautéing)
For Topping:
- Sour cream
- Fresh diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beef enchilada casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. Including resting time, plan for a total of about 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper, sauté another 2-3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in diced green chiles (if using), black beans, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes to combine the flavors.
2. Assembling the Casserole:
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay down a layer of tortillas to cover the bottom (tear tortillas as needed). Spread about one-third of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas. Pour some enchilada sauce on top and sprinkle a good handful of shredded cheese. Repeat layering two more times—tortillas, beef, sauce, and cheese—finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
3. Baking and Serving:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve slices topped with sour cream, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your comforting beef enchilada casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place the sealed package in cold water for quicker thawing. Drain any excess water before cooking to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Corn Tortillas for Flour Tortillas?
Yes! Both work well. Corn tortillas give a more authentic flavor and hold up well, but flour tortillas create a softer texture. If using corn tortillas, warming them slightly before layering helps prevent cracking.
