Introduction
Enchilada ground beef casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that brings the essence of Mexican cuisine into the comfort of your home. This dish combines all the classic elements of enchiladas into a warm, layered casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
With its savory ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, this casserole is not only satisfying but also straightforward to prepare. It's a great way to enjoy a beloved dish while achieving a comforting, one-pan meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
The star of the dish, ground beef delivers protein and a hearty texture. When cooked, it forms the base of the casserole, absorbing flavors from spices and sauces. - 1 small onion, diced
Onions bring a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. Sautéing them until they're translucent enhances their sweetness while creating a flavorful foundation for the dish. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a powerful aromatic quality that elevates the overall flavor profile. The fragrant notes it provides complement the beef and other ingredients beautifully. - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Black beans add fiber and a creamy texture to the dish. They also contribute a mild earthy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients, enhancing its nutritional profile. - 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
Enchilada sauce introduces rich, zesty flavors that define this casserole. It keeps the casserole moist and adds the characteristic Mexican flavor. - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Corn brings a touch of sweetness and crunch to the dish, balancing the savory components. It also adds color, making the casserole visually appealing. - 1 teaspoon cumin
Cumin adds an earthy, warm spice that enhances the overall taste. It's a staple in Mexican cooking, lending an authentic flavor to the casserole. - 1 teaspoon chili powder
Chili powder brings a mild heat and depth to the dish. It works synergistically with the ground beef and spices, enhancing the overall flavor. - 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
Tortillas serve as a structural element, layered throughout the casserole to create a heartiness similar to traditional enchiladas. - 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Cheese contributes a rich creaminess and binds the ingredients together. When melted, it forms a delicious top layer that’s golden and bubbly. - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish. It also enhances the presentation with a pop of green color.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven ensures that the casserole cooks evenly as soon as it is placed inside. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal texture, especially with melted cheese on top.
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat.
Browning the beef creates a rich flavor base due to the Maillard reaction, where the meat caramelizes. Draining the fat is important to prevent the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Sautéing the onion enhances its sweetness and allows it to blend seamlessly with the beef. Adding garlic afterward preserves its aromatic qualities, leading to a well-rounded flavor in the casserole.
Step 4: Mix in the black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
This step melds the flavors together, allowing the beans and corn to absorb the spices and sauce. It creates a cohesive filling full of texture and taste.
Step 5: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, add a layer of tortilla strips, followed by half of the beef mixture, and sprinkle a portion of the cheese on top.
Layering the tortilla strips creates a base for the casserole, while alternating layers of beef and cheese ensures that every bite is filled with flavor. Greasing the dish prevents sticking.
Step 6: Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Repeating the layering process helps build the dish’s structure, ensuring a satisfying blend of textures. The top layer of cheese forms a golden crust as it bakes.
Step 7: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Covering with foil traps moisture, ensuring the casserole cooks through without drying out. The final uncovered baking allows the cheese to brown nicely, creating an appealing presentation.
Step 8: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with cilantro.
Resting the casserole allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve. The cilantro garnish adds freshness and a beautiful contrast to the rich flavors.
Layering for Maximum Flavor
Layering ingredients is key to achieving a well-balanced casserole. By alternating tortilla strips with the beef mixture and cheese, each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Think of it as building a flavor escalator, where the notes of savory beef meld with the tangy sauce and smooth cheese, creating an irresistible dish.
Customization Options
This casserole is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize according to your preferences. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or mix in different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. You can even experiment with different types of cheese to enhance the flavor, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider pairing the casserole with a side salad or Mexican-style rice. A fresh salsa or guacamole can also elevate the entire dining experience. The combination of flavors from the casserole with sides like these creates a complete meal that is both satisfying and enjoyable.
FAQs
What can I do if the casserole turns out too thick?
If the casserole is too thick, you can add a bit more enchilada sauce or a splash of broth to loosen it up during the mixing process.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or using a spicier enchilada sauce. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.
What should I do if the beef tastes bland?
If you find the beef bland, try adding more spices, such as garlic powder or extra chili powder. Taste the mixture before layering it in the casserole for best results.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas for corn ones. Just keep in mind that they may result in a different texture and slightly different flavor.
What other beans can I use in this recipe?
You can use pinto beans or kidney beans as alternatives to black beans, depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I prepare this casserole without meat?
Certainly! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of vegetables, beans, or lentils to create a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole.
Conclusion
Enchilada ground beef casserole is a delightful dish that combines traditional Mexican flavors with the convenience of a casserole. It's perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
With endless customization options, feel free to make it your own and bring your family together around this hearty, comforting meal. You'll find that once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
Recipe Card
Hearty Enchilada Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Mix in the black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, add a layer of tortilla strips, followed by half of the beef mixture, and sprinkle a portion of the cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with cilantro.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
