Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a comforting layered dish combining seasoned ground beef, flavorful enchilada sauce, corn tortillas, and gooey melted cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy and delicious Mexican-inspired meal ready in under an hour, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet enchilada seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
Other
- 10–12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole later.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains.
- Season the beef: Add the enchilada seasoning mix, enchilada sauce, and diced green chilies (if using) to the cooked beef. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Layer the casserole: In a baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips evenly. Top with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over it. Repeat these layers once more to use all ingredients.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spoon sour cream on top if desired and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Using corn tortillas keeps the dish gluten-free; make sure your enchilada sauce and seasoning mix are also gluten-free if needed.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- Sour cream topping is optional but adds a creamy contrast to the spiced casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
