Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal, this Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is a must-try. It has all the bold, comforting flavors of classic beef enchiladas but in an effortless, layered casserole form. Juicy, seasoned ground beef is cooked to perfection, then combined with rich enchilada sauce, soft corn tortillas, and plenty of melty cheese. Instead of rolling each enchilada individually, you simply layer everything in a baking dish and let the oven do the work. The result? A cheesy, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize, whether you like it spicy, extra cheesy, or packed with added ingredients like beans or peppers, you can tweak it to fit your taste.
What makes this beef enchilada casserole recipe even better is how convenient it is. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when needed, making it a great option for meal planning. Leftovers? No problem! It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy a second helping just as tasty as the first. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado, or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want an easy dinner idea, this cheesy beef enchilada casserole is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole
6
servings15
minutes20
minutes2,100
kcalThis Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful and comforting one-dish meal that combines seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, corn tortillas, and plenty of melted cheese. With layers of savory beef and gooey cheese, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The recipe is quick to prepare, making it a great option for anyone looking for a hearty and delicious meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a crowd-pleasing dinner, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
10-12 corn tortillas, cut into strips or quarters
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and follow the packet instructions (usually adding water or broth). Then, pour in the can of red enchilada sauce and diced green chilies. Stir everything together and simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients. Start with a layer of tortilla strips or quarters, followed by a layer of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with a bit of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. You can top the casserole with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle fresh cilantro for extra flavor and a burst of freshness.
- Cut into portions and serve hot! This casserole is perfect on its own or paired with a side of rice or a fresh salad.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder casserole, you can use a mild enchilada sauce and omit the green chilies. For a spicier kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
Conclusion
The Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, corn tortillas, and melted cheese into a satisfying one-dish meal. With simple ingredients and quick prep, this casserole is both easy to make and delicious.
This recipe is also highly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients and portions to suit your needs. It’s great for feeding a crowd or making smaller servings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Simply assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, this casserole will quickly become a favorite. It’s simple, flavorful, and always a hit!