Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Cozy Recipe to Savor with Loved Ones
There’s something so comforting about a hearty casserole on a chilly evening, isn’t there? The aroma wafting through the air as it bakes, the anticipation building as you gather around the table, and the joy of sharing each creamy, flavorful bite. This Beef Enchilada Casserole, with its layers of savory ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, feels like a warm hug. It reminds me of evenings spent with family, huddled together and savoring delicious meals that made our hearts—and stomachs—full. This is definitely an easy weeknight dinner you’ll want to keep in your recipe book!
This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A quick and easy weeknight dinner that can be on your table in just 30 minutes!
- Layered flavors that everyone will love, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for family gatherings.
- Packed with wholesome ingredients like beans and corn for a nutritious twist.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings or ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep—you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it all week!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Mix until combined and heated through.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining beef mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with cilantro and green onions before serving.
Delicious Variations to Try
If you’re looking to put your own spin on this classic recipe, here are some fun variations to consider:
- Zesty Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Swap out the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken and add a splash of lime juice for a refreshing twist!
- Veggie Delight: Use a mix of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms instead of beef to create a hearty vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture for a pleasant heat that’ll warm you right up on a chilly evening.
- Crunchy Topping: Before serving, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top to add a delightful crunch and texture to the dish!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To make the most of your Beef Enchilada Casserole, here are a few of my best secrets for perfect results:
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to play around with different beans or grains. Quinoa could lend this dish a nutty flavor, while pinto beans could add a creamy texture.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and cozy meal.
- Cheese Lovers: Don’t be afraid to mix different kinds of cheese. A combination of pepper jack and cheddar can bring extra creaminess with a bit of spice!
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 410
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 21g
- Protein: 27g
- Sodium: 730mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this cozy Beef Enchilada Casserole:
Can I make this ahead? Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How long does it last? Leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge, or you can freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is more than just a delightful dish; it’s a vessel for creating memories and sharing warmth with the people you love. The layers of flavor come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. So, go ahead, cozy up with this hearty casserole and let the comfort wash over you. Save this Beef Enchilada Casserole to your “Comfort Food” board, so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole layered with savory ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Mix until combined and heated through.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining beef mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with cilantro and green onions before serving.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole, beef, enchilada, comfort food, easy dinner