Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering, easy-to-make meal that will impress your family or guests? This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the perfect solution. Layered with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and tender corn tortillas, this casserole brings the flavors of traditional enchiladas into a convenient, bake-friendly dish. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious casserole, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions that will elevate your cooking game to the next level!

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What is a Beef Enchilada Casserole?

A Beef Enchilada Casserole is essentially a deconstructed version of traditional enchiladas. Instead of individually rolling the corn tortillas around the filling, you layer them in a casserole dish with seasoned beef, enchilada sauce, and cheese, creating a rich and hearty meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping. This dish captures the classic enchilada flavors while making the preparation process quicker and easier.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas

To create the ultimate Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use other ground meats like turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
• 10-12 corn tortillas – Corn tortillas add that authentic flavor and texture to the dish.
• 1 can (15 oz) of red enchilada sauce – You can use homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the beef mixture.
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – You can substitute with Mexican blend cheese or even Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic enhances the savory profile of the beef.
• 1 can (4 oz) of diced green chilies – Adds a mild heat and some tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Gives the dish a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Provides that signature Tex-Mex heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust seasoning to your preference.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.

Additional Toppings and Ingredients for Beef Enchilada Casserole

While the basic ingredients will create a delicious casserole, you can take it to the next level with a few additional toppings or ingredients. Here are some optional add-ons:

• Sour cream – For a creamy topping that cuts through the heat.
• Chopped cilantro – Fresh herbs to add a burst of flavor.
• Sliced black olives – For a slightly salty, briny touch.
• Avocado slices or guacamole – Adds richness and a velvety texture.
• Fresh salsa – Provides some freshness and acidity.
• Jalapeño slices – For those who like a bit more spice.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is how versatile it is. There are several substitutions and variations you can try depending on your preferences or dietary restrictions:

• Ground turkey or chicken – For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
• Vegetarian option – Skip the beef and use black beans or a mixture of beans and vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• Different cheese options – While cheddar is the go-to, you can experiment with other cheese varieties like pepper jack, Colby, or queso fresco for a twist.
• Gluten-free enchilada sauce – If you're avoiding gluten, make sure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free or consider making a homemade version.
• Spicier version – Increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also opt for hot enchilada sauce instead of mild.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or a light coat of oil.
2. Cook the ground beef. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, and diced green chilies to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Prepare the tortillas. Lightly toast or warm the corn tortillas on a dry skillet or griddle for about 20-30 seconds on each side. This will prevent them from becoming soggy during baking.
5. Assemble the casserole. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Place a layer of corn tortillas over the sauce, followed by a layer of the seasoned ground beef. Drizzle with more enchilada sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tortillas, sauce, and a generous amount of cheese on top.
6. Bake the casserole. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Rest and serve. Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.

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

The step-by-step process outlined above ensures that your Beef Enchilada Casserole turns out perfect every time. Here’s a quick summary to keep handy:

1. Preheat oven.
2. Cook the seasoned beef.
3. Warm the tortillas.
4. Layer the ingredients.
5. Bake covered, then uncovered to melt the cheese.
6. Let rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Soggy tortillas – Not toasting or warming the tortillas can lead to sogginess. Always pre-toast or warm them for better texture.
• Overcooking the beef – Make sure to cook the beef just until it’s browned and no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to dry and tough meat.
• Not seasoning properly – Be sure to taste the beef mixture and adjust the seasoning before assembling the casserole. Under-seasoned beef can lead to a bland casserole.
• Skipping the rest time – Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a hearty meal on its own, but you can elevate the presentation with thoughtful serving suggestions:

• Serve with rice and beans – Mexican rice and refried beans are classic sides that pair perfectly with enchilada casserole.
• Add a fresh salad – A simple salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with lime juice offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Top with fresh herbs and lime – Garnish each serving with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a wedge of lime for a bright pop of flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Presentation matters! Here are some creative ideas for serving your Beef Enchilada Casserole:

• Individual servings – Use a round cookie cutter or knife to cut the casserole into perfect squares or circles for an elevated plating look.
• Skillet style – For a rustic presentation, bake the casserole in a cast-iron skillet and serve it straight from the oven to the table.
• Garnish generously – Sprinkle fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, or thinly sliced radishes over the top for a colorful and appetizing finish.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead – You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezer-friendly – This casserole freezes well. Simply bake, cool, and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Use leftover ingredients – If you have leftover enchilada sauce or ground beef from other recipes, use them in this casserole to reduce waste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze Beef Enchilada Casserole?
Absolutely. Once baked, cool the casserole, then freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ. Corn tortillas give the dish its authentic Mexican taste and are gluten-free.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, as long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and ensure your corn tortillas are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. With layers of tender tortillas, savory ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try out the substitutions and variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal. Make sure to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

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