The Best Beef Enchilada Casserole
A comforting and simplified version of traditional enchiladas, this casserole features layers of savory ground beef, tender corn tortillas, and zesty enchilada sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s an easy, robust, and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
8 corn tortillas, cut into half-inch strips or squares
1 cup enchilada sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced onions
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add enchilada sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture. Remove from heat.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture on the bottom.
Layer half of the corn tortilla strips over the beef mixture.
Spread about half of the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas.
Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses over the beef.
Repeat layers: remaining tortillas, remaining beef mixture, and remaining cheeses.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly crisp.
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with optional toppings.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a good quality jarred enchilada sauce or make your own.
If you prefer a spicier casserole, use a medium or hot enchilada sauce and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Flour tortillas can be used, but they may become softer than corn tortillas.
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Find it online: https://kindeat.com/the-best-beef-enchilada-casserole/