Beef Enchilada Casserole

Introduction

Indulge in the savory flavors of a Beef Enchilada Casserole, a hearty and comforting dish that brings together ground beef, cheese, and flavorful enchilada sauce in a layered casserole.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (7 ounces) diced green chiles, drained
• 12-14 flour or corn tortillas
• 1 ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ¼ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 avocado, peeled, seeded, diced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup diced tomato
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet with onion until beef is browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain excess grease.
3. Add enchilada sauce, black beans, and green chiles. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Layer tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese in the casserole dish.
5. Repeat layers and top with remaining cheese. Bake covered for 30-35 minutes, then uncovered for 5 minutes.
6. Toss avocado with lemon juice. Top casserole with avocado, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeno.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

Serve this delicious casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. It pairs well with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp green salad.

How to Store Beef Enchilada Casserole

Cover any leftovers tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Customize the casserole by adding your favorite toppings such as sliced black olives or jalapenos.
• Use a combination of corn and flour tortillas for added texture.
• Make ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake for a quick weeknight meal.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
2. Can I freeze Beef Enchilada Casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
3. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce? Absolutely! Using a store-bought sauce saves time and still delivers great flavor.