Mighty Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

Juicy Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

Comfort meets creativity in this hearty beef enchilada casserole that promises to transport you straight to a cozy kitchen in mexico.

Layers of tender meat, melted cheese, and soft corn tortillas create a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.

Spices dance across each bite, telling a story of culinary tradition and home-style cooking.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Melted cheese bubbles invitingly, promising a rich and satisfying meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Rich, savory notes blend seamlessly with a hint of warmth from carefully selected spices.

Anyone can master this recipe, turning an ordinary evening into a delicious celebration of mexican-inspired cuisine.

Grab a fork and get ready to savor every single, incredible bite.

Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Flavor

  • Bake with Confidence: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe guides you through each step with clear instructions, making it a stress-free baking experience.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: These white chocolate strawberry cupcakes are guaranteed to impress at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings with their elegant flavor combination.
  • Sweet Seasonal Treat: Leverage fresh strawberries when they're in peak season to create a dessert that captures the essence of summer's most beloved fruit.
  • Customize Your Creation: Easily personalize the cupcakes by adjusting frosting thickness, adding fresh strawberry garnishes, or experimenting with decorative piping techniques.

What You’ll Need For Beef Enchilada Casserole

For the Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A flavorful and hearty meat base that provides rich protein for the casserole.
For the Base:
  • Corn Tortillas: Traditional Mexican tortillas that create layers and structure in the casserole.
  • Black Beans: A protein-packed and fiber-rich ingredient that adds texture and nutrition.
For the Flavor Enhancers:
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that build a deep, savory foundation for the dish.
  • Taco Seasoning, Cumin, Chili Powder: Spices that deliver authentic Mexican-style flavor and warmth.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and intensify the overall taste.
For the Saucy Components:
  • Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: A zesty ingredient that adds moisture and mild heat.
  • Enchilada Sauce: A classic Mexican sauce that provides rich, tangy flavor and moisture.
For the Cheese and Toppings:
  • Shredded Cheese: A melty ingredient that creates a golden, creamy layer on top.
  • Black Olives: An optional ingredient that adds a salty, briny accent.
  • Cilantro, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that provide a bright, aromatic garnish.
For the Optional Serving Sides:
  • Sour Cream, Avocado, Salsa: Complementary condiments that enhance the casserole's flavor and freshness.

Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Steps

Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Steps

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Preheat your oven to a toasty 375F (190C) to create the perfect cooking environment for this delicious dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it transforms into a rich, golden-brown color.

Drain away any excess fat to keep the dish light and delicious.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add these ingredients to the skillet:
  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic

Cook until the onions become soft and translucent.

Sprinkle in:
  • Taco seasoning
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Stir everything together to create a mouthwatering flavor explosion.

Step 4: Create the Saucy Mixture

Pour in:
  • Diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • Enchilada sauce

Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Step 5: Layer the Foundation

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the beef mixture across the bottom, creating a flavorful base.

Step 6: First Enchilada Layer

Arrange the first layer with:
  • Corn tortillas
  • Black beans
  • Shredded cheese

Cover the beef mixture completely with these delicious ingredients.

Step 7: Repeat the Layering Magic

Add another round of:
  • Beef mixture
  • Corn tortillas
  • Black beans
  • Shredded cheese

Creating a delectable tower of flavors.

Step 8: Final Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

Optional: Add sliced black olives for extra pizzazz.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Look for bubbly edges and golden, melted cheese.

Step 10: Serve and Garnish

Finish with a sprinkle of:
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced green onions
Serve alongside:
  • Sour cream
  • Sliced avocado
  • Fresh salsa

Best Tips For Beef Enchilada Casserole Results

  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles to create a lighter, healthier version of this casserole. Enhance flavor by roasting fresh garlic and onions before adding to the meat mixture for deeper, more complex taste profiles. Prevent soggy tortillas by lightly toasting corn tortillas in a dry skillet before layering to maintain their texture and prevent excessive moisture absorption. Select high-quality enchilada sauce or make homemade sauce for more authentic and robust flavors that elevate the entire dish. Prepare casserole ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking, which allows ingredients to meld and intensifies overall taste.

Switch Up Beef Enchilada Casserole For Fun

  • Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Replace ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick, tender alternative. Season chicken with similar spices for rich flavor.
  • Vegetarian Enchilada Bake: Substitute beef with black beans, roasted bell peppers, and zucchini. Add extra cheese for protein and creamy texture.
  • Spicy Green Chile Enchilada Layer: Use green enchilada sauce instead of red. Incorporate diced green chiles and pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
  • Tex-Mex Quinoa Version: Mix cooked quinoa with ground beef, adding extra protein and nutty flavor. Layer quinoa between tortillas for a wholesome spin.

Perfect Pairings With Beef Enchilada Casserole

  • Serve this hearty casserole as a weekend family meal with colorful side dishes like Mexican rice and fresh garden salad.
  • Create a build-your-own toppings bar with chopped cilantro, diced avocados, sour cream, and salsa so everyone can customize their plate.
  • Transport this casserole to neighborhood gatherings or potlucks in a covered dish, keeping it warm with a towel wrapped around the baking pan.
  • Pack extra toppings separately to maintain their freshness and crunch during travel.
  • Transform cold casserole slices into a quick lunch by reheating and tucking into a tortilla wrap with extra salsa.

Save Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas

  • Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep it sealed to maintain freshness and prevent other food odors from seeping in.
  • Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Place a label with the date to track storage time.
  • Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. For better texture, reheat in the oven at 350F (175C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • When reheating, avoid microwaving for too long. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating to restore moisture and flavor.

FAQs

  • Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

While you can use flour tortillas, corn tortillas provide a more authentic Mexican flavor and better texture for this enchilada casserole. Corn tortillas also hold up better during baking and absorb the sauce nicely.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to moderate heat level from the taco seasoning and green chilies. You can control the spiciness by choosing mild taco seasoning or reducing the amount of chili powder. For extra heat, add jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, black beans, or vegetarian meat substitutes. Ensure you keep the same spice and sauce proportions for maximum flavor.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?
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Mighty Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

Mighty Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe


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4.8 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty beef enchilada casserole delivers Mexican comfort in one satisfying dish. Layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and corn tortillas create a robust meal that brings warmth and flavor to family dinner tables.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
  • 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans
  • 1 small onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Sliced black olives
  • Chopped cilantro or green onions
  • Sour cream
  • Avocado
  • Salsa

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, thoroughly draining any excess fat.
  3. Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic into the beef, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture, ensuring even distribution of spices.
  5. Pour diced tomatoes with green chilies and enchilada sauce into the skillet, allowing the mixture to simmer and meld flavors for 5 minutes.
  6. Create the first base layer in the baking dish by spreading a thin coat of the seasoned beef mixture.
  7. Arrange the first set of corn tortillas directly over the beef layer, covering the entire surface.
  8. Distribute half of the black beans evenly across the tortillas, then generously sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese.
  9. Repeat the layering process with remaining beef mixture, tortillas, black beans, and another cup of cheese.
  10. Garnish the casserole’s top with remaining cheese and optional sliced black olives.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, golden-brown crust.
  12. Finish by garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions and serve alongside sour cream, avocado, and salsa.

Notes

  • Corn tortillas provide an authentic Mexican flavor and gluten-free option, but quickly warm them in a skillet before layering to prevent breaking.
  • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a soggy casserole and ensure a crispy, well-textured dish.
  • Use a blend of Mexican cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for deeper flavor complexity and better melting performance.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for lighter protein alternatives without compromising taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 415 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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