Black Bean And Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish, and when you turn them into a casserole, they become even more convenient and perfect for feeding a crowd. This Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole brings together the rich, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, hearty black beans, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce—all layered between soft tortillas for a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this casserole is a surefire hit. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be prepped ahead for convenience. Let’s dive into the recipe and all the tips you need to make this dish a success!

this Recipe

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What is a Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty, layered dish inspired by traditional enchiladas. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, the ingredients are layered in a casserole dish, making it a quicker and easier way to enjoy all the flavors of enchiladas. The casserole consists of seasoned ground beef, black beans, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and lots of melted cheese. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to serve a delicious, satisfying meal.

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Ingredients List for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious enchilada casserole:

• Ground beef: 1 lb (lean or regular, depending on your preference)
• Black beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• Enchilada sauce: 2 cups (red or green, store-bought or homemade)
• Tortillas: 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas (depending on your preference)
• Shredded cheese: 2 cups (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Onion: 1 small onion, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
• Taco seasoning: 1 packet (or homemade with cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano)
• Green chilies: 1 can (4 oz), diced (optional for extra heat)
• Sour cream: ½ cup (optional, for creaminess)
• Cilantro: ¼ cup chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Sliced black olives: ¼ cup (optional, for topping)
• Sliced jalapeños: Optional for garnish (fresh or pickled)

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Ingredient List for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole Variations

You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the beef and add more black beans, pinto beans, or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn.
• Spicy enchilada sauce: Use a spicier enchilada sauce or add cayenne pepper to the meat mixture if you like more heat.
• Queso fresco: Swap some of the shredded cheese with queso fresco or cotija for a more authentic Mexican flavor.
• Refried beans: Swap black beans with refried beans for a smoother texture in the casserole.
• Homemade enchilada sauce: Make your own enchilada sauce by blending tomato sauce with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and oregano for a homemade touch.

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Substitutions and Variations

This enchilada casserole is very versatile, and you can adapt it based on what you have available or any dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations to try:

• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, you can use low-carb tortillas or replace the tortillas with thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie-filled casserole.
• Gluten-Free Version: Be sure to use gluten-free corn tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce and taco seasoning are gluten-free.
• Cheese Substitutes: If you want a dairy-free version, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative like vegan shredded cheese, or omit the cheese altogether and add extra guacamole on top after baking.
• Homemade Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have a taco seasoning packet on hand, make your own using 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon oregano. Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra spice.
• Beans Substitution: If you're not a fan of black beans, you can swap them out for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans for a smoother, creamier texture.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this hearty black bean and beef enchilada casserole from start to finish.

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook the beef:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef:
   • Stir in the taco seasoning, green chilies (if using), and about ½ cup of enchilada sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Mix in the drained black beans, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Layer the casserole:
   • In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce to cover the bottom. Place a layer of tortillas over the sauce, cutting them if necessary to cover the dish without too much overlap.
   • Spoon half of the beef and black bean mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with a layer of shredded cheese.
   • Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the rest of the beef and bean mixture, another layer of cheese, and then finish with one more layer of tortillas.
5. Add the final toppings:
   • Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top layer of tortillas. Sprinkle with the rest of the shredded cheese and add any optional toppings, like sliced black olives or jalapeños.
6. Bake the casserole:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
7. Garnish and serve:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, and extra jalapeños if desired.

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

This step-by-step guide will help you make sure every layer of your enchilada casserole comes out perfect:

1. Start with a Sauce Base: Always spread a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish before adding the tortillas. This prevents the tortillas from sticking to the dish and ensures even flavor distribution.
2. Layer with Care: Alternate between layers of tortillas, meat and beans, and cheese. This creates a balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
3. Don't Overbake: Be careful not to overbake the casserole once the foil is removed. You want the cheese to be bubbly and melted, but not too crispy. Keep an eye on it during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
4. Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for at least 5 minutes after baking. This will make it easier to cut and serve while keeping all the layers intact.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your casserole comes out perfect every time:

• Not Draining the Beans: Always drain and rinse canned beans to avoid excess liquid that could make your casserole too soggy.
• Skipping the Sauce Base: A layer of sauce at the bottom of the baking dish prevents the tortillas from sticking and ensures every bite is full of flavor.
• Overloading the Tortillas: Don’t use too many tortillas in each layer, as this can make the casserole too heavy and doughy. Stick to a thin layer for the best results.
• Forgetting the Foil: Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking helps it cook evenly and prevents the top from browning too quickly.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Your Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is delicious on its own, but with a few simple garnishes and serving tips, you can elevate the dish to another level.

How to Serve Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Cut into squares: After letting the casserole rest, slice it into even squares or rectangles. Use a spatula to carefully lift each portion out of the dish.
• Serve with sides: Pair the casserole with classic Mexican side dishes like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Add fresh garnishes: Top each slice with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and slices of avocado or jalapeños for extra flavor and color.

Presentation Ideas for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Cast-Iron Skillet: For a rustic presentation, consider baking the casserole in a large cast-iron skillet instead of a baking dish.
• Layered in Ramekins: If you're hosting a dinner party, bake individual portions in ramekins to create an elegant presentation.
• Garnish Platter: Serve the casserole alongside a platter of garnishes, like diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime wedges, so guests can personalize their portions.

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Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
• Freeze for Later: Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Double the Recipe for a Crowd: If you're serving a large group, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just use a larger baking dish or make two separate casseroles.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
A: Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a great alternative and add a more traditional Mexican flavor. Just make sure to lightly warm them before layering to prevent them from cracking.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake when you're ready. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

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Conclusion

This Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is the perfect blend of rich, savory beef, tender black beans, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheese—all layered between soft tortillas. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Plus, it's versatile enough to adapt to your personal tastes with various substitutions and add-ons. Follow our step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s full of bold flavors and comforting textures. Try this easy-to-make casserole tonight and enjoy a taste of enchilada heaven!

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