Beef Enchilada Casserole
A delightful and comforting dish that layers seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and zesty enchilada sauce for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Casserole Filling
- 1 pound ground beef Juicy and savory, the star of this casserole.
- 1 small onion, diced Aromatic and slightly sweet, adding flavor depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fragrant and pungent, enhancing the savory notes.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder Brings a warm kick and earthy aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds a hint of smokiness, a true flavor booster.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper A simple spice that elevates the dish.
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce Rich and tangy, binding all the flavors together.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed Creamy and nutritious, adding heartiness.
Layers
- 8 pieces corn tortillas Crispy and delightful layers that add texture.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Melty, rich, and irresistible.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese Creamy and smooth, balancing the flavors.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) Brightens the dish with freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix in 1 cup of enchilada sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Assembly
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the dish.
- Layer with 4 corn tortillas, half of the beef mixture, one-third of the black beans, and a mix of cheeses.
- Repeat layers and finish with tortillas and remaining enchilada sauce.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Notes
To elevate your Beef Enchilada Casserole, consider using homemade enchilada sauce or incorporating vegetables for added nutrition. You can substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version.