Beef Enchilada Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Beef Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes; 10.75 ounces red enchilada sauce; 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed; 15 ounces corn, drained; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 0.33 cup chopped cilantro; 0.25 cup sliced green onions

Introduction to Beef Enchilada Casserole

If you’re searching for a hearty and delicious dish that brings the family together, look no further than this beef enchilada casserole! This comforting recipe combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheese, all layered with rice and beans. It’s an easy-to-make meal that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters while giving you a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine right at home.

A Personal Story Behind My Beef Enchilada Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals that filled our home with warmth and laughter. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother preparing her famous enchiladas, which inspired me to create this casserole version. It captures the same comforting essence but simplifies the cooking process, making it perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for gatherings.

What Makes This Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Special?

This beef enchilada casserole is not your average casserole. What sets it apart is the combination of bold flavors and textures that come together in a single dish. The ground beef is seasoned to perfection, while the addition of black beans and corn adds nutritional value and a delightful crunch. Plus, the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top creates a gooey, savory layer that everyone loves. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings and spices for an extra kick!

The Full Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
10.75 ounces red enchilada sauce
15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
15 ounces corn, drained
1 cup cooked rice
1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
⅓ cup chopped cilantro
¼ cup sliced green onions

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 3-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are tender. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return the mixture to the pan.

Pour in the diced tomatoes, red enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, cooked rice, and all the seasonings. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is mixed evenly.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and top it generously with the shredded cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the chopped cilantro and sliced green onions on top before serving. These fresh toppings add a burst of color and flavor!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Beef Enchilada Casserole

This beef enchilada casserole is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños on top before baking. You can also modify the recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or swapping in your favorite beans. Need a vegetarian option? Simply replace the beef with extra beans and add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Enchilada Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian option.

How spicy is this casserole?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes.

Conclusion

This beef enchilada casserole is a fantastic option for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and customizable nature, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the warmth and love that comes from sharing this delightful dish with those you care about!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 6