Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that satisfies serious comfort food cravings and brings a bubbling, melty delight to your dinner table, look no further than Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole. This dish layers tender tortillas, juicy seasoned ground beef, savory enchilada sauce, and mountains of oozy cheese for a meal that’s both easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests. Each bite is packed with bold flavor, just the right amount of spice, and plenty of creamy goodness — it’s everything you love about enchiladas, reimagined as a hearty casserole that’s practically guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole proves that you don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients to create something deeply satisfying. Each element adds something unique, from the zing of the sauce to the buttery melt of cheese, making every layer memorable.

• Ground Beef: Go for 80/20 for juicy texture and rich flavor; leaner meat works if you prefer.
• Yellow Onion: A sautéed onion brings mellow sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives aromatic complexity and a classic Tex-Mex backdrop.
• Taco Seasoning: Whether store-bought or homemade, this blend adds just the right kick.
• Enchilada Sauce: The soul of the dish! Choose your favorite canned red enchilada sauce, or make a quick batch from scratch for extra freshness.
• Corn Tortillas: Their slightly sweet, earthy flavor is the perfect complement to saucy, cheesy layers.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: The perfect melt factor, with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and more.
• Black Beans (optional): Adds a pleasant, creamy texture and a hit of protein.
• Sliced Olives (optional): For those who love little pops of tangy, briny flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro (for garnish): A vibrant, fresh finish.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by browning your ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it into crumbles and let it develop a bit of color for richer flavor. Add the diced onion and garlic, stirring until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, stirring everything so the spices coat the meat evenly. If you’re adding black beans, toss them in at this point along with a splash of the enchilada sauce to bring it all together.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom — this prevents sticking and infuses flavor into every bite. Then, arrange a layer of corn tortillas to cover the bottom (tearing them to fit where needed). Top with half the beef filling, a drizzle of enchilada sauce, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with tortillas, the remaining sauce, and a heavy blanket of cheese on top. Add sliced olives if you like that extra briny pop.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and starting to brown around the edges. If you like a little extra crust, broil for 2 minutes — just keep a close eye so the cheese doesn’t burn. Let the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving, to make slicing much easier.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole

Garnishes

The right toppings can brighten up this savory casserole and personalize each plate. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or thinly sliced jalapeños offers freshness and a pop of color. Dollops of sour cream or guacamole on the side add creaminess that ties everything together.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole goes beautifully with sides like Mexican rice, charro beans or a vibrant corn salad. If you’re aiming for a lighter meal, a simple chopped tomato and avocado salad balances the richness of the casserole nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

This casserole can be dressed up or down. Serve straight from the baking dish for cozy family style, or cut clean squares and plate them atop a bed of lettuce for a dinner-party spin. For a fun twist, use individual ramekins or mini baking dishes for single servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator without losing its delicious texture. The flavors often deepen and meld even more after a night in the fridge.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap securely in two layers of foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. Label with the date and baking instructions for an easy meal later on.

Reheating

For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through (about 25-30 minutes for a whole casserole). Individual portions can go straight into the microwave; just cover and heat in increments for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Absolutely! Flour tortillas will make the layers softer and slightly chewier. If you love that texture, go right ahead. Just be aware they soak up a bit more sauce and can get softer as the casserole sits.

How spicy is this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole?

The heat level depends mostly on your enchilada sauce and taco seasoning. Use a mild version for less heat or a spicy one if you like things with a kick. You can always add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce at the table for heat-lovers.

Can I add veggies to the casserole?

Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini are great additions. Just cook them until tender and layer them in with the beef for extra nutrition and flavor.

What’s the best cheese to use?

A Mexican blend is classic, but Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar also work beautifully. If you like things extra gooey, mix in a bit of mozzarella. The key is lots of cheese so every bite pulls apart with that irresistible stretch!

Is this Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole gluten-free?

As long as you use corn tortillas and double-check your enchilada sauce and taco seasoning for hidden gluten, this casserole is completely gluten-free, making it a safe and satisfying option for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes say “comfort” like a bubbling pan of Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole pulled straight from the oven. It’s quick, satisfying, and brimming with layers of savory, cheesy joy. Give it a try — this one has a way of turning into a family favorite overnight!

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