Are you craving a delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to please the entire family? Look no further than a classic beef enchilada casserole. This Mexican-inspired dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. Follow these four simple steps to create a perfect beef enchilada casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 10-12 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced green chilies, black beans, and corn. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This flavorful filling is the heart of your casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layering: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of corn tortillas on top of the sauce, covering the bottom as evenly as possible.
- Add Filling: Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining beef mixture and another cup of shredded cheese. Finish with a final layer of tortillas and the rest of the enchilada sauce.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting into it. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or a simple green salad.
Enjoy Your Homemade Beef Enchilada Casserole!
With these four easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering beef enchilada casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!