Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas

If you’re craving a satisfying and flavorful meal that brings a taste of Mexico to your kitchen, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the perfect recipe for you! This dish combines layers of savory beef, melted cheese, zesty enchilada sauce, and hearty corn tortillas, delivering comfort food at its best. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Keep reading to find out how to make this mouthwatering casserole that will surely become a favorite at your dinner table!

What is Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas?

Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a layered, baked dish that features seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and layers of corn tortillas, creating a lasagna-like structure with a delicious Mexican twist. It’s like having traditional enchiladas in a more convenient, easy-to-assemble casserole form. The dish is versatile, as you can add your favorite toppings and sides, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas

To make this mouthwatering Beef Enchilada Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Ground beef – 1 to 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef.
2. Corn tortillas – 10-12 medium-sized corn tortillas.
3. Enchilada sauce – 2 cups of red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade).
4. Cheese – 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese.
5. Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
6. Garlic – 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
7. Green chilies – 1 small can (4 oz) of diced green chilies.
8. Taco seasoning – 1 packet or 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning.
9. Olive oil – 1 tablespoon for sautéing.
10. Cilantro – Fresh cilantro for garnish.
11. Sour cream – Optional, for serving.
12. Green onions – Optional, for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas recipe is highly customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out ground beef for a leaner option like ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content while keeping the dish flavorful.
• Vegetarian option: For a meatless version, substitute the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or even a mixture of sautéed veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Flour tortillas: If you’re not a fan of corn tortillas or don’t have them on hand, you can substitute them with flour tortillas. Keep in mind that flour tortillas will create a slightly softer texture in the casserole.
• Homemade enchilada sauce: If you prefer to avoid store-bought sauces, you can easily make your own enchilada sauce by combining tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and a bit of vinegar.
• Spicier version: If you like your enchiladas with more heat, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to the beef mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef: Once the beef is browned, stir in the taco seasoning and diced green chilies. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add ¼ cup of water or beef broth. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the flavors meld together.
4. Layer the casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the dish. Next, arrange a layer of corn tortillas, slightly overlapping, to cover the bottom. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese and a drizzle of enchilada sauce. Repeat the layers one more time: tortillas, beef, cheese, and sauce.
5. Top it off: Finish with a final layer of corn tortillas, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese.
6. Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve: Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the step-by-step process to cook Beef Enchilada Casserole:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown ground beef with onions and garlic.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and green chilies.
4. Layer corn tortillas, beef mixture, cheese, and enchilada sauce in a baking dish.
5. Repeat layers and top with more tortillas, sauce, and cheese.
6. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Enchilada Casserole is pretty straightforward, but here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overloading with tortillas: Too many layers of tortillas can make the casserole overly dense and doughy. Stick to 2-3 layers for a balanced texture.
• Not draining excess fat: If you don’t drain the fat from the ground beef, the casserole can become greasy. Always drain off the fat after browning the beef.
• Using too little sauce: The enchilada sauce helps soften the tortillas and adds flavor. Make sure each layer gets a good coating of sauce to avoid dry patches.
• Overcooking: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking. Overbaking can dry out the tortillas and beef, making the dish less enjoyable. Removing the foil halfway through baking ensures the cheese melts perfectly without burning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving and presentation tips:

• Sides: Serve the casserole with classic Mexican sides such as Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado and tomato salad. Tortilla chips and salsa also make great accompaniments.
• Toppings: Amp up the flavors by offering a variety of toppings like diced avocado, pickled jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, or sliced black olives.
• Garnish: A simple garnish of fresh cilantro and green onions adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

To serve Beef Enchilada Casserole, use a sharp knife to cut it into square or rectangular pieces. Carefully lift each piece with a spatula and transfer to individual plates. Add a spoonful of sour cream or guacamole on top for extra creaminess. You can also sprinkle more cheese over the casserole while it’s still hot for added richness.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Presentation is key to making your casserole look as good as it tastes. Here are a few ideas:

• Casserole dish: Serve the casserole in the baking dish straight from the oven. This rustic presentation keeps the meal warm and inviting.
• Individual portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into individual portions and plate them with a sprinkle of cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side.
• Garnish with color: Brighten up the dish with colorful garnishes like chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, and a drizzle of crema or sour cream.

Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Use leftover tortillas: Stale or slightly dry corn tortillas actually work well in this recipe, as they soak up the sauce without becoming too soggy.
• Double the recipe: If you're feeding a crowd or want leftovers, this recipe is easy to double. Just use a larger baking dish or prepare two smaller ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Beef Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the same baking instructions.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q: How long does Beef Enchilada Casserole last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use any melty cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.

Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a delicious, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a comforting homemade meal, this casserole is sure to satisfy. With its layers of seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a taste of Mexico right from your kitchen!

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