Looking for an easy family dinner that packs flavor? Try my Savory Beef Enchilada Casserole! This dish combines ground beef, cheese, and tortillas in a way that everyone loves. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, I’ll share tips to elevate your casserole and avoid common mistakes. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that will have your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups enchilada sauce (can be store-bought or homemade)
Additional Ingredients
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (use frozen or canned)
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– 2 cups shredded cheese (a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well)
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– Sour cream, for serving (optional)
This list covers all the tasty items you need for a savory Beef Enchilada Casserole. Each ingredient plays a key role in building rich flavors. Ground beef gives a hearty base. Onion and garlic add depth. Enchilada sauce brings spice and moisture.
Don’t forget the black beans and corn; they add texture and nutrients. Tortillas create layers, and cheese melts perfectly on top. For a fresh kick, add cilantro. Sour cream offers a cool contrast. Check out the Full Recipe for more details!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Ingredients
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 pound of ground beef.
– Cook the beef until it turns brown. Break it apart with a spatula.
– If there is extra fat, drain it from the skillet.
– Add 1 medium chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic.
– Sauté these for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft.
– Stir in 1 can of rinsed black beans, 1 cup of corn, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin.
– Mix in half of your enchilada sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Assembling the Casserole
– Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Layer half of the tortilla strips across the bottom.
– Pour half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla strips.
– Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce on top.
– Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over this layer.
– Repeat: add the rest of the tortilla strips, the remaining beef, and more enchilada sauce.
– Top with the remaining cheese.
Baking the Casserole
– Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
– Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
– After 20 minutes, remove the foil.
– Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
– You want the cheese to be bubbly and lightly golden brown.
– Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting into squares.
For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe link. Enjoy your delicious beef enchilada casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Expert Cooking Tips
– Meat cooking tips: Cook the ground beef until brown. This step adds flavor. Drain any extra fat for a leaner dish.
– Casserole layer techniques: Start with tortilla strips at the bottom. This keeps the layers from sticking. Alternate layers of beef, sauce, and cheese for even cooking.
Presentation Tips
– Serving suggestions: Cut the casserole into squares for easy serving. Place on colorful plates for a nice touch.
– Creative garnishing ideas: Add fresh cilantro on top for color. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking cheese: Watch the cheese closely while baking. You want it melted, not burnt.
– Uneven layering: Make sure to spread the layers evenly. This helps all parts cook well and taste great.
Explore the Full Recipe to get all the details. Enjoy making this tasty meal!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change the meat in this dish. Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. They give a lighter taste while keeping it tasty. If you want a vegetarian option, use lentils or black beans as the base. Both add protein and flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. You can also try different sauces. A green salsa or a spicy chipotle sauce can add a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with side dishes for a full meal. A fresh garden salad is a great choice. You might also enjoy rice or guacamole alongside it. For drinks, serve with iced tea or a light beer to complement the flavors.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool down. Cut it into squares. Place the pieces in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, use the microwave or oven. Heat it until it is hot all the way through. If using the oven, cover it with foil to keep it moist.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this casserole for later. Cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. This way, they stay fresh. When you’re ready to eat, take a piece out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, use the oven for the best texture.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the casserole lasts about 3 days. After that, it may spoil. Look for signs like a sour smell or mold. If you see either, throw it away. Always trust your senses!
FAQs
What can I use instead of beef?
You can swap ground beef for other meats. Here are some ideas:
– Ground turkey
– Ground chicken
– Plant-based meat
– Shredded pork
These options work great. They give you different flavors and textures.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas. They will change the texture but taste good. Corn tortillas are traditional and add a nice flavor. Try both to see which you prefer.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Layer all your ingredients in the dish. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready. This saves time on busy nights.
How can I make it spicier?
To add heat, try these tips:
– Use spicy enchilada sauce
– Add jalapeños to the beef mixture
– Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top
– Mix in chopped chipotle peppers
Adjust the heat to match your taste.
Where can I find the Full Recipe?
You can find the Full Recipe for this savory beef enchilada casserole on my cooking page. It has all the details you need to make it perfect!
This blog post covered a tasty casserole you can make with ground beef, onion, and enchilada sauce. I guided you through steps like prepping the oven, layering ingredients, and baking the dish. I also shared tips to improve your cooking and ways to store leftovers. New ideas and variations can make the recipe fun. You can swap ingredients easily or add spices for extra flavor. Enjoy creating this yummy casserole that fits your taste!
