Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole

It is 6pm and you need dinner fast. You want something warm, filling, and completely stress-free. This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole is the answer to your prayers.

Forget rolling individual tortillas for an hour. This recipe gives you all that classic flavor without the tedious work. It is the perfect comfort food for a busy evening.

Why You Will Make This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole Again

This dish is a total lifesaver during the busy Fall season. It comes together in just 45 minutes from start to finish. Your whole family will love the gooey cheese and bold spices. It is reliable, fast, and incredibly satisfying every single time.

You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now. It is a great way to use up ground beef. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day. It is a true weeknight winner for any home cook.

How This Comes Together

The process is very straightforward and beginner-friendly. You simply brown the beef and layer it with corn tortilla strips. There is no fancy technique required here. Just layer, bake, and enjoy the bubbly, cheesy goodness from your oven.

What You Will Need

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your meal.

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 20 oz red enchilada sauce, divided
• 12 corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips
• 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 4 oz diced green chilies
• 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion until the meat is fully cooked and onions are translucent, approximately 8 minutes.
3. Drain excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and diced green chilies; cook for 1 additional minute.
4. Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Place half of the corn tortilla strips over the sauce in an even layer.
6. Top the tortillas with half of the beef mixture, half of the black beans, 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, black beans, and 1/2 cup of sauce.
8. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
10. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before garnishing with cilantro and serving.

How To Serve It

Serve this hot directly from the baking dish. Add a dollop of sour cream and some fresh avocado. A crisp side salad balances the rich and savory flavors perfectly. It is a great meal for hosting a casual game day crowd.

Leftovers and Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to four days. You can also freeze this casserole for a month. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and easy lunch. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)

• Do not skip draining the excess fat from the beef.
• Use corn tortillas for the best authentic Tex-Mex texture.
• Avoid over-baking so the cheese stays perfectly melty.
• Prep the onion and garlic ahead of time to save minutes.
• Add extra green chilies if you want a spicy kick.
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing it.
• Use a high-quality enchilada sauce for the best flavor profile.

Easy Ways To Change It Up

• Swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for speed.
• Use pinto beans instead of black beans for variety.
• Add a layer of corn for a sweet seasonal crunch.
• Try flour tortillas if you prefer a softer, doughier texture.

Quick Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers a day early. Keep it covered in the fridge until you bake. You may need five extra minutes in the oven.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild heat from the green chilies. You can use mild taco seasoning to keep it kid-friendly. Add jalapeños if you want more fire.

I hope your family loves this easy meal as much as mine does. It is the ultimate solution for those hectic nights when you need a win. Give it a try tonight!

— Ethan

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 20 oz red enchilada sauce, divided
• 12 corn tortillas , cut into 1-inch strips
• 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 4 oz diced green chilies
• 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion until the meat is fully cooked and onions are translucent, approximately 8 minutes.
3. Drain excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and diced green chilies; cook for 1 additional minute.
4. Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Place half of the corn tortilla strips over the sauce in an even layer.
6. Top the tortillas with half of the beef mixture, half of the black beans, 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, black beans, and 1/2 cup of sauce.
8. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
10. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before garnishing with cilantro and serving.