Comforting Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole for 6 Happy Faces

Name: Comforting Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole for 6 Happy Faces
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips; 1 small onion, diced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something about a hearty ground beef enchilada casserole that warms the heart and fills the home with delightful aromas. It’s one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I absolutely love how easy it is to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to gather the family around the dinner table. As the layers of tortillas, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese meld together, you can almost hear the happy chatter of loved ones sharing stories and laughter. Trust me, once you serve this casserole, it’ll quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to make enough for leftovers, this ground beef enchilada casserole is here to make your life easier and more delicious. So, let’s get started on this comforting journey together!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect ground beef enchilada casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef – This will be the hearty base of your casserole. Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
1 can (15 oz) black beans – Make sure to rinse and drain them before adding, which helps reduce sodium and enhances flavor.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce – This is essential for that rich, tangy taste that enchiladas are famous for.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – You can use sharp or mild cheddar, depending on your preference. Monterey Jack is also a great choice!
8 corn tortillas – Cut into strips, these will create those delicious layers. If you’re gluten-free, just double-check the label on your tortillas.
1 small onion – Diced to add a lovely sweetness and depth to your beef mixture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – This adds a warm, savory flavor. You can use fresh garlic if you prefer!
1 teaspoon cumin – A must for that authentic Mexican flavor; it really pulls the dish together.
Salt and pepper to taste – These will enhance all the flavors, so don’t skip them!

Having everything prepped and ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the comforting process of making this ground beef enchilada casserole. I promise it’s simpler than it looks, and I’ll guide you through each step!

Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial because you want your casserole to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. In a medium skillet, heat over medium heat, add your pound of ground beef and the diced onion. Cook them together, breaking the beef apart with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and the onions are tender, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat once it’s cooked—that helps keep the casserole from being too greasy. Then, stir in the rinsed black beans, enchilada sauce, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and heated through. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!

Assembling the Casserole

Now for my favorite part—assembling the casserole! Grab a baking dish (I usually use a 9×13-inch dish for this recipe). Lay down half of the tortilla strips on the bottom, making sure to cover the surface evenly. Next, spoon half of your beef mixture over those tortillas. Just spread it out gently; you want to make sure every bite has that delicious filling. Then, sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture. Repeat this process with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, and cheese. It’s important to layer evenly, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully during baking, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

Baking the Casserole

Once you’ve assembled your masterpiece, it’s time to bake! Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the edges are slightly crispy. Oh, the anticipation! After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything set a bit and makes it easier to slice. Trust me, that first slice will be worth the wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: This ground beef enchilada casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss.
Comfort food: With its warm layers of beef, cheese, and tortillas, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that’ll wrap you up in cozy flavors.
Family-friendly: Everyone in the family will love it—it’s hearty, delicious, and a great way to bring everyone to the table for a shared meal.
Customizable for dietary needs: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary preferences. Swap out the beef for ground turkey, or pile on more veggies for a lighter option!
Gluten-free option available: Just make sure to choose gluten-free corn tortillas, and you’re all set for a delicious gluten-free meal that everyone can enjoy.

Tips for Success

Getting the most out of your ground beef enchilada casserole is all about a few key tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little pointers can make a world of difference in your cooking experience!

Don’t rush the browning: Make sure to cook the ground beef and onions over medium heat until they’re nicely browned. This step builds up those rich flavors that are so important for the overall taste of your casserole.
Layer it right: As you layer your casserole, try to be as even as possible. This helps ensure that every bite is packed with flavor and that it cooks evenly throughout. I like to take my time with this step—it’s worth it!
Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to add more spices! A pinch of chili powder or paprika can really kick things up a notch. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Substitutions are easy: If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in place of beef. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a delightful twist! For a vegetarian version, swap out the meat for additional beans or lentils.
Cheese choices: While I love cheddar, feel free to mix in other cheeses or even try a pepper jack for a spicy kick! Mixing different types can add a depth of flavor that’s simply delightful.
Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, so it might take a little less or a bit more time than expected. You want that perfect bubbly, golden cheese on top!
Let it rest: After you take it out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and makes it easier to portion out those perfect slices.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying a hearty ground beef enchilada casserole, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information for one slice of this delicious casserole:

Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Please remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients and any substitutions you make. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the products you use for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cooking and savor every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of meat in this enchilada casserole?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, replace the meat with more black beans or even some sautéed vegetables. It’s all about what you enjoy!

How do I know when my ground beef enchilada casserole is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. If you gently shake the dish, it shouldn’t jiggle too much in the middle. Let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven, and it will set up nicely for serving.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef enchilada casserole ahead of time! Just assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it in the oven—just remember it might need a few extra minutes of cooking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with my enchilada casserole?
This casserole is a meal in itself, but if you want to add some sides, I recommend a fresh salad or some Mexican-style rice. Adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top just before serving also elevates the dish beautifully!

Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, it can easily be made gluten-free! Just ensure that you use gluten-free corn tortillas and double-check the labels on your enchilada sauce to be certain it doesn’t contain any gluten. Enjoy your delicious, worry-free meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious ground beef enchilada casserole, you might find yourself with some tasty leftovers. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them to keep that flavor intact!

First, let’s talk about storage. Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature before you store them. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can make your casserole soggy. Once cooled, transfer your casserole to an airtight container. If you have any leftover slices, I recommend wrapping them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This way, they stay fresh and ready to enjoy!

You can keep your enchilada casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, onto reheating! To reheat your casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the casserole is frozen, let it thaw in the fridge first. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you like your cheese extra bubbly, you can remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

If you’re in a hurry, microwaving is also an option. Place a slice of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals until it’s warm. Just remember, the oven method usually preserves the texture better!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your ground beef enchilada casserole for days to come. Happy eating!

ground beef enchilada casserole - detail 1

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.