Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

Craving a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican dish that brings all the flavors of enchiladas but without the fuss of rolling tortillas? Look no further than this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas! This hearty casserole layers seasoned ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and soft corn tortillas for a satisfying Tex-Mex meal the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the recipe!

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What is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a deconstructed version of classic enchiladas. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, you layer seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, cheese, and corn tortillas in a casserole dish. The result is a savory, cheesy, and saucy dish with all the enchilada flavors you love but with half the effort. It’s a perfect option for anyone who loves Mexican food but wants a quicker, more convenient way to serve it.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas

To create this flavorful Beef Enchilada Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Ro-Tel, undrained)
• 12 small corn tortillas (cut into quarters or halves)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend, divided)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed, optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sliced black olives (optional for topping)
• Chopped cilantro or green onions (for garnish)
• Sour cream, avocado, and salsa (for serving)

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Enchilada Casserole is highly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and use black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms) for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas and enchilada sauce.
• Spice it Up: For more heat, use hot enchilada sauce, add a diced jalapeño, or mix in some hot sauce with the beef.
• Different Cheeses: Try other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
• Layer with Rice: For extra heartiness, layer some cooked rice or quinoa between the tortillas and beef mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas step by step. It’s quick, easy, and will have your family asking for seconds!

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Seasonings and Vegetables
   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
4. Mix in Enchilada Sauce and Tomatoes
   Add the enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the liquid) to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Prepare the Tortillas
   While the beef mixture simmers, cut the corn tortillas into quarters or halves to make layering easier.
6. Layer the Casserole
   To assemble the casserole, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Next, add a layer of corn tortillas, followed by more beef mixture, a sprinkle of black beans (if using), and a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese on top.
7. Bake the Casserole
   Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
8. Let it Rest and Garnish
   Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and optional sliced black olives.
9. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the casserole with sour cream, avocado, salsa, or guacamole on the side. Pair it with a simple side salad or some Mexican rice to complete the meal.

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

For the best results with your Beef Enchilada Casserole, here are a few helpful tips:

• Use Good Quality Corn Tortillas: Opt for sturdy corn tortillas that won’t fall apart during baking. You can also lightly toast or fry them before layering for extra texture.
• Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Cheese is a key component in this dish, so make sure each layer has a generous sprinkling of shredded cheese for maximum flavor.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking will make it easier to cut into neat slices and help the layers stay intact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Beef Enchilada Casserole:

• Soggy Tortillas: If your corn tortillas get too soggy, they won’t hold their shape in the casserole. Lightly toasting or frying the tortillas before layering can help prevent this.
• Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add too much liquid to the casserole, as it can become watery. Drain the tomatoes well and don’t overdo the enchilada sauce.
• Not Enough Seasoning: Season the ground beef mixture well. Taste as you go to ensure your casserole has plenty of flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving your Beef Enchilada Casserole, presentation matters! Here are a few tips to make your dish look just as good as it tastes:

• Serve Family-Style: Bring the casserole dish straight to the table and let everyone help themselves to a warm, cheesy slice.
• Top with Fresh Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or sliced jalapeños on top just before serving for added color and flavor.
• Serve with Sides: Pair the casserole with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can make it even better with the right accompaniments:

• With Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice or Spanish rice will complement the bold flavors of the enchilada casserole perfectly.
• With Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Serve the casserole with crispy tortilla chips and fresh salsa or guacamole for a fun, Tex-Mex-inspired meal.
• As Leftovers: This dish tastes just as good the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, then reheat in the oven or microwave.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Here are some easy ways to elevate the presentation of your Beef Enchilada Casserole:

• Use a Colorful Baking Dish: A bright, colorful baking dish can add a festive flair to your table.
• Add Garnishes: Top the casserole with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or even some crumbled queso fresco for a pretty and delicious presentation.
• Serve in Individual Ramekins: For a fun twist, divide the casserole into individual ramekins for personal-sized servings.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

To make sure your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
• Freeze It: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.
• Spice Control: Customize the spice level to your liking by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce and tomatoes with green chilies. If you prefer it even spicier, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind that they may become a bit softer and less sturdy than corn tortillas in this casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold when you put it in the oven.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great, leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will still be delicious with all the other ingredients and seasonings.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the perfect combination of cheesy, saucy, and savory goodness, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving Mexican flavors. The layering of tender corn tortillas, seasoned beef, and melted cheese creates a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides, and watch it become a family favorite!

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