Description
Mexican-inspired beef enchilada casserole promises hearty layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and corn tortillas. Comfort cuisine delivers rich flavors that satisfy hungry families with minimal preparation time.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
- 15 ounces (425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 ounces (113 grams) diced green chilies
- 15 ounces (425 grams) corn, drained
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Finishing Ingredients:
- 10 ounces (284 grams) red enchilada sauce
- 10 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, thoroughly brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles.
- Incorporate chopped onions and minced garlic into the beef, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour red enchilada sauce into the skillet, then add green chilies, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 6-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Create the first layer of the casserole by arranging corn tortillas across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring complete coverage.
- Distribute half of the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the tortilla base, creating a uniform layer.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese across the beef layer, covering the entire surface.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese, creating a second complete layer.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese turns golden and bubbling.
- Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving immediately.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, vegetarian-friendly version that still packs incredible flavor.
- Enhance protein content by adding a layer of refried beans between tortilla layers, creating extra richness and nutrition.
- Use corn tortillas strategically by briefly warming them in a skillet first, which prevents soggy texture and helps them hold structure during baking.
- Control spice levels by choosing mild enchilada sauce for sensitive palates or adding jalapeños for those craving extra heat and zesty kick.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 495
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg