Beef Enchilada Casserole: Quick, Comforting, and Full of Flavor

If you love traditional enchiladas but dread the time-consuming assembly, the Beef Enchilada Casserole is the perfect solution. This comforting, flavorful dish captures all the classic elements—seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, black beans, and a rich enchilada sauce—but comes together much faster than rolling individual enchiladas. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole offers the same satisfaction with less hassle.

With layers of tortillas, beef, beans, and cheese smothered in a tangy, spiced sauce, it’s hearty enough to please the whole family. The casserole is also versatile—you can swap beef for chicken or turkey, adjust the spice level, or even make it vegetarian with beans and veggies. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make a perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole: from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and frequently asked questions.

Ingredients

This recipe has two main components: the enchilada sauce and the casserole filling. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Enchilada Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onion and building a flavorful base.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the flavors.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin – Earthy, warm spice that defines enchiladas.
• 2 teaspoons chili powder – Adds heat and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
• 15 ounces tomato sauce – Provides tanginess and body to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken stock – Adds moisture and richness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic flavor essential in Mexican-inspired dishes.

Casserole Filling

• 1 pound ground beef – Can be substituted with chicken or turkey.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – To season the meat.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Sweetness and texture in the filling.
• 4.5 ounces diced green chiles – Adds mild heat and authentic flavor.
• 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed – Protein and texture.
• 12 corn tortillas (6 inches) – Forms the layers of the casserole.
• 3 cups shredded colby jack cheese – Melts beautifully for creamy, gooey layers.

Preparation Method

Making this casserole is simple when broken into steps: preparing the sauce, cooking the filling, assembling the layers, and baking.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set aside. Proper preparation ensures the casserole cooks evenly and is easy to serve.

Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 diced onion and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in 2 teaspoons chili powder and 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin, cooking for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
4. Add 1 tablespoon flour, stirring to combine. This helps thicken the sauce.
5. Gradually whisk in 1 cup chicken stock until smooth.
6. Stir in 15 ounces tomato sauce and 2 cloves minced garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.

Optional: Transfer the sauce to a blender for a smooth, silky texture.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Filling

1. While the sauce is cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium heat and add 1 pound ground beef.
2. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, breaking the meat apart as it cooks.
3. Add 1 diced onion and cook until the beef is fully browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in 4.5 ounces diced green chiles and 15 ounces black beans. Combine thoroughly.
6. Add 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce to the beef mixture to ensure every bite is flavorful and moist.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Dip 6 corn tortillas in the remaining enchilada sauce to coat. Line the bottom of the prepared baking dish with these tortillas.
2. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded colby jack cheese over the beef layer.
4. Dip the remaining 6 tortillas in the enchilada sauce and layer them on top.
5. Add the remaining beef mixture and top with 2 cups colby jack cheese.

Pro Tip: Lightly dip each tortilla in the sauce to prevent them from drying out in the oven and ensure layers stick together.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Optional: For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

The Beef Enchilada Casserole is hearty and delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with sides:

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice – Adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Refried beans or black beans – Complements the filling.
• Sour cream or guacamole – Creamy toppings for added richness.
• Fresh salsa or pico de gallo – Bright, acidic contrast to the cheesy casserole.
• Chopped fresh cilantro – For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Tip: Serve with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead of time:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Pro Tip: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing to maintain clean layers.

Variations

The Beef Enchilada Casserole is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:

1. Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Substitute cooked shredded chicken for ground beef.
2. Vegetarian: Replace meat with extra beans, sautéed vegetables, or plant-based crumbles.
3. Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne, or chipotle peppers to the sauce.
4. Cheese Variations: Mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco for different flavor profiles.
5. Tortilla Alternatives: Use flour tortillas for a softer texture or low-carb tortillas for a lighter option.

Why This Recipe Works

Several elements make this casserole a consistent favorite:

• Layered Flavor: Seasoned beef, beans, and cheese create a balance of savory and spicy notes.
• Time-Saving: Comes together in just 50 minutes, far quicker than rolling individual enchiladas.
• Family-Friendly: Appealing to adults and children alike, with customizable spice levels.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Can be made ahead and stored for later meals.
• Versatile: Easy to swap ingredients for dietary needs or flavor preferences.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without baking and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

2. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

3. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Use cooked shredded chicken or ground chicken seasoned similarly.

4. How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace beef with black beans, pinto beans, or plant-based crumbles, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

5. Can I make the sauce spicier?
Yes. Add chipotle in adobo, diced jalapeños, or extra chili powder to taste.

6. How do I prevent tortillas from drying out?
Dip each tortilla in sauce before layering to keep them moist during baking.

7. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, for convenience, though homemade sauce offers better flavor control.

8. How long does it last after baking?
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

The Beef Enchilada Casserole delivers all the flavor and comfort of traditional enchiladas with far less effort. Layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, diced green chiles, corn tortillas, and melty colby jack cheese, all smothered in a rich enchilada sauce, make this dish irresistible.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, this casserole is both fast and flexible. You can adjust the spice, swap proteins, or add vegetables to suit your family’s preferences. By following these simple steps, you’ll enjoy a cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation.