Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and hearty meal that satisfies all your Tex-Mex cravings, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe is the perfect dish! Combining layers of savory beef, spicy enchilada sauce, melty cheese, and soft corn tortillas, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Keep reading to discover how to make this mouth-watering casserole, step-by-step instructions, serving tips, and common mistakes to avoid for perfect results every time!

What is a Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Beef enchilada casserole is a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, the ingredients are layered like a lasagna. This makes the dish faster to prepare, while still offering all the delicious flavors of a classic enchilada meal. The combination of seasoned ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, cheese, and tender corn tortillas creates a comforting meal that's packed with flavor.

Why Should You Make Beef Enchilada Casserole?

This casserole is:

• Quick to assemble
• Great for leftovers
• Easily customizable
• A crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making the perfect Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Before we dive into the instructions, it's essential to gather all the ingredients you need. Below are the basic ingredients that make up this savory dish:

• 1 pound ground beef (lean, ideally 80/20)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade seasoning
• 10-12 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (either store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 can corn, drained (optional)
• 1 small can of diced green chilies (optional)
• Sour cream, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for cooking the beef

Now that you’ve got the essentials, we can dive into how to put everything together to make this cheesy, savory casserole.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can swap ingredients to fit dietary needs, preferences, or simply to use what you have on hand.

• Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a leaner option.
• Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for a softer texture.
• Add refried beans for an extra layer of creaminess.
• Include more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a healthier twist.
• If you're vegetarian, substitute the beef with lentils or plant-based meat and load up on vegetables or beans.

Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or using a spicier enchilada sauce!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light layer of oil to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

To the browned beef, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the onions become translucent. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 4: Prepare the Corn Tortillas

While the beef mixture is cooking, heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them pliable and help prevent them from becoming soggy in the casserole.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. Start by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Add a layer of corn tortillas (overlap them if necessary). Follow this with a layer of the ground beef mixture, a sprinkle of black beans (if using), and a handful of shredded cheese. Repeat these layers (sauce, tortillas, beef, beans, cheese) until all the ingredients are used up, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Let it Rest

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve, and will also allow the flavors to settle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the tortilla heating step: Failing to heat the corn tortillas before layering can lead to a mushy texture in the casserole.
• Overloading with sauce: While it's tempting to use lots of enchilada sauce, too much can make the dish soggy. Stick to the recommended amount.
• Not letting the casserole rest: Cutting into the casserole right after taking it out of the oven can result in messy servings. Give it a few minutes to set before slicing.
• Using raw onions and garlic: Always cook the onions and garlic with the beef for a smoother flavor and texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation and serving are just as important as the cooking process when it comes to casseroles. Here’s how you can elevate your Beef Enchilada Casserole experience:

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Top with Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to each serving to balance the spiciness.
• Fresh Cilantro and Lime: Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish.
• Side of Guacamole: Serve with homemade or store-bought guacamole for added creaminess.
• Rice and Beans: Pair the casserole with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex meal.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Slice the casserole into neat squares and arrange them on a colorful Mexican-inspired platter.
• Garnish with jalapeño slices for a spicy kick and extra color.
• Scatter a handful of crumbled queso fresco on top for a tangy contrast to the melted cheddar.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.
• Double the recipe: This casserole freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a quick meal later.
• Add layers of flavor: For a more complex taste, try adding layers of refried beans or sliced avocado between the beef and tortillas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas if you prefer. Just note that the texture will be softer and less chewy than when using corn.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding extra beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. With layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. Don’t forget to try some of the suggested variations, and use the serving and presentation tips to make it truly your own. Enjoy the rich, satisfying taste of homemade enchiladas without the hassle of rolling tortillas. Dig in and enjoy every bite!

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