Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful, layered Mexican-inspired dish combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, enchilada sauce, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it brings together hearty ingredients with simple preparation and oven-baked goodness.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Assembly
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef together with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked and onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in the enchilada sauce, drained diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, ground cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes to let all the flavors meld together.
- Layer the First Tortillas: Place 4 corn tortillas in a slightly overlapping fashion on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
- First Layer of Filling and Cheese: Spread half of the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the tortilla base. Then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beef layer.
- Add Second Tortilla Layer: Lay the remaining 4 corn tortillas over the cheese layer to form the middle layer of the casserole.
- Second Layer of Filling and Cheese: Spread the remaining beef mixture uniformly over the second tortilla layer, followed by the rest of the shredded cheeses on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to help it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Optional Garnish: Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure the corn tortillas are certified gluten free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Customize the cheese blend with your favorites like pepper jack or queso fresco.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican