When it comes to Tex-Mex cuisine, few dishes can compete with the irresistible appeal of Beef Enchilada Casserole. Bursting with rich flavors, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, layers of tortillas, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a culinary journey that evokes the vibrant spirit of Mexican cuisine, wrapped in a warm, comforting embrace. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Let’s explore how to create this Tex-Mex masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to a fiesta of flavors and leave everyone craving for more.
Beef Enchilada Casserole – A Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight
Beef Enchilada Casserole is a Tex-Mex comfort food classic that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This hearty and flavorful dish combines seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, layers of tortillas, and plenty of cheese. It’s easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
For the Casserole:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Sliced black olives, chopped fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Season and Add Beans:
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and add the drained and rinsed black beans. Cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Place a layer of tortillas in the bottom of the greased baking dish, overlapping as needed.
- Spread half of the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas.
- Pour half of the red enchilada sauce evenly over the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Create a second layer by adding another set of tortillas, the remaining beef and bean mixture, the remaining red enchilada sauce, and the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly.
- Garnish your Beef Enchilada Casserole with optional toppings like sliced black olives, chopped fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Cook’s Notes:
- Tortilla Choice: You can use either corn or flour tortillas, depending on your preference. Corn tortillas provide a more traditional taste, while flour tortillas are slightly milder.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or diced tomatoes.
- Make it Ahead: Like most casseroles, you can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through.
Beef Enchilada Casserole offers the vibrant and bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in a convenient casserole format. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic option for satisfying your cravings for Mexican-inspired cuisine. Enjoy this delicious dish!
