Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that is both simple to prepare and packed with flavor, then this Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is just what you need! With layers of savory ingredients and melted cheese, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s customizable, making it easy to adapt to your family’s taste preferences. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your home!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is not only reliable but also incredibly versatile. It’s made with easily available ingredients, and the cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of lean ground beef, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese layered between soft tortillas creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Plus, the low-sodium options used in this recipe ensure that you can enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health.

What Goes In

To make this Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons low sodium Mexican seasoning
• 8 corn tortillas (4-inch)
• 1 cup low sodium enchilada sauce
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a layered casserole that is both satisfying and delicious.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start cooking, gather the following tools to make your experience smooth and efficient:

• Large skillet – for browning the beef and onions.
• Spatula – for stirring and breaking up the meat.
• Casserole dish – to assemble and bake the enchilada casserole.
• Sharp knife – for chopping the onion.
• Measuring spoons – for accurate measurements of oil and seasoning.
• Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot casserole dish.

Having everything ready will make the cooking process much easier!

Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole Made Stepwise

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your beef.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Stir in 2 tablespoons of low sodium Mexican seasoning into the beef and onion mixture. Make sure the spices coat the meat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, spread a thin layer of ½ cup of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a casserole dish. This prevents sticking and adds flavor.

Step 5: Layer the Ingredients

Begin layering by placing 4 corn tortillas over the sauce. Next, spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese. Repeat the layering process with another 4 tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, more enchilada sauce, and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or avocado.

Customize for Your Needs

One of the best things about this Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is how easy it is to customize. Here are some ideas:

• Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Use flour tortillas if you prefer a different texture.
• Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making this Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole is straightforward, here are some potential pitfalls and how to fix them:

• Burnt cheese: If your cheese is browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
• Dry casserole: If your casserole seems dry, consider adding a bit more enchilada sauce between the layers or on top before baking.
• Uneven layers: Make sure to spread ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Tortillas breaking: If your tortillas are breaking, make sure to slightly warm them before layering to make them more pliable.

These tips will help ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time!

Prep Ahead & Store

If you want to save time, this Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole can be prepped ahead:

You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. If you do this, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This casserole also freezes well. To freeze, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Enjoying this dish later is just as delightful as the first serving!

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of meat for this casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work great in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as necessary based on the meat used.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, consider using spicy enchilada sauce, adding jalapeños, or incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the beef mixture.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based options. Add more veggies for a hearty vegetarian dish.

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Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details to create your Easy Beef Enchilada Casserole, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, set up your workspace, and enjoy the process. Your family and friends will be impressed with this flavorful dish, and you’ll love how simple it is to make. Happy cooking!