Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe

If you're in searcIf you're in search of a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion, look no further than this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas recipe. It combines savory beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and soft corn tortillas into one comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a surefire hit. Read on for the ultimate guide to creating this crowd-pleasing dish, including ingredients, substitutions, cooking instructions, and serving tips!

What is Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas?

Beef enchilada casserole with corn tortillas is a layered Mexican-inspired dish that simplifies the classic enchilada recipe. Instead of individually rolling each tortilla with filling, the ingredients are stacked in layers—similar to lasagna. Ground beef is typically cooked with onions and spices, then mixed with enchilada sauce and layered with corn tortillas and cheese. The casserole is baked until bubbly and golden, making for a hearty, cheesy meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. The corn tortillas give this dish a soft texture that perfectly balances the robust flavors of the beef and enchilada sauce.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef: Ground beef is the star of this dish. Opt for lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) for a slightly healthier version, though any ground beef will work well.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the savory flavors of the beef and spices.
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: This sauce brings the authentic Mexican flavor. You can use mild or spicy depending on your heat preference.
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: A combination of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby adds a gooey, melted layer to the casserole.
• 12 small corn tortillas: These tortillas serve as the starchy base for the casserole, soaking up the flavors of the beef and sauce.
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies: Adds a mild heat and a slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A classic spice in Mexican cuisine, cumin adds an earthy, warm flavor to the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For that authentic enchilada kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the beef and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

For Toppings:

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro: For a fresh, vibrant garnish.
• Sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the spicy enchilada sauce.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like extra heat.
• Sliced black olives (optional): Adds a briny flavor to the casserole, which pairs well with the beef and cheese.
• Diced avocado or guacamole: A cool, creamy counterpoint to the rich and spicy casserole.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap or add ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the beef for a leaner option like ground turkey or chicken to cut down on fat and calories. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the beef and add black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils as a hearty vegetarian substitute. You can also bulk it up with additional veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Flour tortillas: If you don’t have corn tortillas on hand, you can use small flour tortillas instead. Keep in mind that the texture will be softer and less authentic, but it will still taste great.
• Homemade enchilada sauce: If you prefer homemade to store-bought, you can make your own enchilada sauce using tomato paste, chili powder, garlic, and spices.
• Different cheeses: While the Mexican cheese blend is a popular choice, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added spice.
• Spicier version: If you like your enchilada casserole spicy, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper. You can also use a hot enchilada sauce or add hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add onions and garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent.
4. Season the beef: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the diced green chilies and cook for another minute to incorporate all the flavors.
5. Add the enchilada sauce: Pour in the enchilada sauce and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Layer the casserole: Begin by spreading a thin layer of the beef mixture at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, add a layer of corn tortillas—use 3-4 tortillas to cover the beef. Follow this with a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers (beef mixture, tortillas, cheese) until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake the casserole: Cover the casserole dish 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 melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, black olives, and sour cream if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: Be careful not to overcook the beef when browning it. You want it cooked through but still tender, not dry and tough.
• Skipping the resting time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
• Using too much sauce: While enchilada sauce is key to the flavor of this dish, using too much can make the casserole soggy. Stick to the recommended amount or add it gradually if you prefer a drier texture.
• Not covering the casserole: Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking helps the cheese melt evenly without browning too quickly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

Beef enchilada casserole is a filling dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• With rice and beans: Serve the casserole alongside classic Mexican sides like Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
• Tortilla chips and salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole make a great appetizer or side.
• Mexican street corn: Add some Mexican street corn (elote) for a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich casserole.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the hearty flavors of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Presentation matters! To make your casserole look as good as it tastes, here are a few ideas:

• Layered look: When slicing into the casserole, make sure each piece shows off the layers of tortillas, beef, and cheese. A clean, layered slice is visually appealing.
• Garnish generously: Add a pop of color with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or sliced jalapeños on top of each serving. The green contrasts nicely with the red sauce and melted cheese.
• Serve in individual dishes: If you're hosting a dinner party, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing option: Beef enchilada casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly in foil before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 350°F for 40-50 minutes.
• Customizable toppings: Get creative with your toppings! In addition to sour cream and jalapeños, try adding fresh lime wedges, salsa verde, or crumbled queso fresco.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply ensure that the enchilada sauce and all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to worry about those.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this casserole spicy?
A: Absolutely! To spice things up, use hot enchilada sauce, add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture, or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes.

Q: Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?
A: Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine for this recipe, though freshly grated cheese will melt better.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the perfect combination of ease and flavor. With its layers of seasoned beef, soft corn tortillas, and melted cheese, it's a dish that's sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

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