Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish that brings all the flavors of a classic enchilada into one easy-to-serve pan. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender tortillas, melty cheese, and rich enchilada sauce come together to make a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
I love making this casserole when I want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s easy to double up the recipe to feed a crowd or save leftovers for the next day — the flavors only get better after a night in the fridge.
My favorite way to enjoy Beef Enchilada Casserole is with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh chopped cilantro on top. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. It’s always a hit because it’s tasty, straightforward, and pretty hard to mess up—trust me, everyone will ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the star protein here. Use lean beef for less grease, or try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian? Use cooked lentils or crumbled tofu instead.
Enchilada sauce: The sauce brings bold flavors. If you can’t find canned sauce, swap in your favorite salsa or a mix of tomato sauce with chili powder and cumin for a quick fix.
Corn tortillas: Traditional corn tortillas add great texture. If corn isn’t your favorite, flour tortillas work too. For gluten-free, stick with certified corn tortillas.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds tang. You can mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for creaminess. For dairy-free, try plant-based shredded cheese.
How Can You Layer the Casserole Without It Falling Apart?
To keep layers neat and enjoy each bite, here’s what helps:
- Start with a light layer of sauce on the dish’s bottom to prevent sticking.
- Overlap tortillas slightly and gently press layers to compact them.
- Use a spoon to evenly spread beef sauce — too thick or dry can cause cracking.
- Cover with foil for moist baking, then uncover to brown cheese beautifully.
- Let it rest after baking; this helps the casserole set and makes serving cleaner.
Patience with layering and resting gives you tidy, delicious slices every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and cooking the onion evenly.
- 9×9 inch baking dish – just the right size for layering and baking the casserole.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring the meat mixture without scratching your pan.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep the casserole moist while baking before browning the cheese.
- Cheese grater – if you buy block cheese, grating it fresh melts better and tastes fresher.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter meal that still tastes great.
- Add black beans or corn to the meat mixture for extra heartiness and texture.
- Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack to add a little spicy kick to the casserole.
- Stir in chopped green chilies or jalapeños if you like it hotter and more flavorful.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 to 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream (optional)
Time Required:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to bake. Allow 5 minutes resting time before serving. So, plan for around 50 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onions are nice and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the extra fat. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the enchilada sauce and diced green chilies if you’re using them. Let this simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors blend well.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. To prevent sticking, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Next, layer 2 or 3 corn tortillas over the sauce, breaking them as necessary to cover the dish well. Spread about a third of the meat sauce evenly over the tortillas, then sprinkle with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with cheese on top.
3. Bake and Serve:
Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream if you like. Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and delicious beef enchilada casserole!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas work well in this casserole and tend to be softer. Just keep in mind they may make the dish a bit more filling and change the traditional texture slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole a day before baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What Are Good Add-Ins or Variations?
Add cooked black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and nutrition. For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.