Beef Enchilada Casserole

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Layers of hearty, seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and soft tortillas all smothered in rich enchilada sauce — this Beef Enchilada Casserole is the weeknight comfort food winner you’ve been looking for. With all the flavors of classic enchiladas but none of the hassle of rolling, this bake-and-serve dish is both satisfying and incredibly simple to prepare.

Each slice delivers a bold Tex-Mex flavor, perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers that taste even better the next day. Whether you’re a spice lover or cheese fanatic, this dish brings everything together in a bubbly, cheesy, flavor-packed casserole.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up beautifully in a layered casserole like this one. They soak up the sauce while still providing structure. If you prefer flour tortillas, go for it—they’ll yield a softer, more lasagna-like texture.

Ingredients for the Beef Enchilada Casserole

Ground Beef
The star of the casserole, seasoned and browned to perfection for that savory bite.

Yellow Onion
Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the beef filling.

Garlic
Aromatics like garlic bring out the bold Tex-Mex flavor.

Taco Seasoning
Infuses the beef with essential spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

Red Enchilada Sauce
This is the flavor base of the casserole; choose a high-quality canned sauce or make your own for extra depth.

Corn Tortillas
Layered in to hold everything together and soak up the sauce.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Melts into that golden, bubbly top everyone loves.

Optional Toppings
Fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or diced tomatoes for a finishing touch.

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How To Make the Beef Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes. Add a cup of enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Place a layer of tortillas on the bottom of the dish, tearing them to fit. Add a layer of the beef mixture, then sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layering (tortilla, beef, cheese) until all ingredients are used up, finishing with cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.

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How to Serve and Store Beef Enchilada Casserole

Serve hot and fresh out of the oven, ideally with a dollop of sour cream and a side of guacamole. For leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

What to Serve With Beef Enchilada Casserole?

Mexican Rice

Fluffy and spiced, this is the ultimate classic side.

Refried Beans

Creamy and comforting, they balance the boldness of the casserole.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Brushed with lime butter and cotija for a street-food vibe.

Cilantro Lime Slaw

Crisp and tangy, it lightens the richness of the dish.

Churro Bites

Sweet and cinnamon-kissed, perfect for dessert.

Avocado Tomato Salad

Bright and refreshing, this cuts through the savory cheese layers.

Jalapeño Cornbread

A sweet and spicy twist to sop up any extra sauce.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re into cheesy, hearty dinners like this beef enchilada casserole, check these favorites out next:

• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for rich layers of pasta and cheese.
• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole if you’re craving savory, melty comfort.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that blends creamy sauce with crispy, cheesy chicken.
• Cheesy Hamburger Casserole for a budget-friendly classic.
• Walking Taco Casserole if you’re all about bold, fun Tex-Mex flavors.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it whenever you need a quick and delicious dinner fix.

And if you make it, leave a comment! Did you add jalapeños? Swap cheddar for pepper jack? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

For more crave-worthy casseroles and dinner ideas, explore the full recipe collection on Chef Alchemy’s Pinterest.

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