Best Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

A comprehensive beef enchilada casserole recipe offers a convenient and flavorful approach to a classic dish. This recipe simplifies the traditional enchilada preparation, resulting in a satisfying casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The layered construction ensures even cooking and maximizes the mingling of flavors. This adaptable recipe allows for customization based on individual preferences and dietary needs. The casserole’s hearty nature makes it suitable for freezing, offering a convenient meal-prep option. The ease of assembly and baking makes this a popular choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

This recipe’s simplicity belies the depth of flavor achieved through the careful combination of ingredients. The rich beef filling, complemented by the savory enchilada sauce and the creamy, melty cheese, creates a truly irresistible culinary experience. This casserole transcends the limitations of traditional enchiladas by offering a more manageable and efficient cooking process, while still delivering the authentic flavors. It is a dish that is both satisfying and enjoyable, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. The adaptability of the recipe further enhances its appeal, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements.

The straightforward preparation process, combined with the delicious outcome, positions this recipe as a go-to option for busy individuals and families seeking a flavorful and efficient meal solution.

Ingredients for the Beef Enchilada Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can enchilada sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions for the Beef Enchilada Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Fill each tortilla with a spoonful of the beef mixture and roll up.
8. Place the rolled tortillas in the baking dish, seam-down.
9. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas.
10. Sprinkle with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Estimated Time and Servings for Beef Enchilada Casserole

This beef enchilada casserole recipe offers a practical solution for satisfying a large group with minimal effort. The preparation time is relatively short, allowing for quick assembly, and the baking time is easily managed within a standard oven. The recipe’s yield is substantial, making it ideal for family meals or potlucks. The following table provides a clear overview of the timing and yield for this recipe, making planning and preparation simpler. Accurate timing ensures a perfectly cooked casserole, and understanding the serving size helps cater to the expected number of guests or household members.

Nutritional Information for this Beef Enchilada Casserole

This recipe provides a balanced nutritional profile, incorporating protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the tortillas, and fats from the cheese. The addition of vegetables, while minimal in this specific recipe, can be increased to enhance the nutritional value. Understanding the nutritional content allows for informed choices regarding portion sizes and dietary adjustments. While this analysis provides general information, individual dietary needs and caloric requirements should be considered for personalized assessment.

A precise nutritional breakdown requires detailed ingredient specifications and portion sizes. The following is an approximation based on average values; consult a nutrition calculator for more precise data using your specific ingredients.

Tips for Cooking the Beef Enchilada Casserole

Optimizing the cooking process ensures the best possible results. These tips enhance both flavor and texture. Attention to detail throughout preparation yields a superior culinary outcome. These suggestions aim to improve the consistency and overall quality of the final dish.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:

   The flavor of this dish is significantly enhanced by using fresh ingredients, especially the onions and garlic. Their freshness contributes to a brighter and more complex flavor profile. Using high-quality ingredients directly translates to a superior taste experience in the final product. Utilizing the freshest available produce will improve the overall flavor and aroma of your casserole.

2. Don’t Overcook the Beef:

   Overcooked beef can become dry and tough, negatively impacting the texture and overall quality of the casserole. Properly browning the beef, while ensuring it remains moist, is crucial for a tender and flavorful final product. Careful monitoring of the cooking process is essential for achieving the perfect level of doneness.

3. Warm the Tortillas:

   Warming the tortillas before filling them makes them more pliable and less prone to breaking. This simple step contributes significantly to the ease of assembly and the neat presentation of the finished casserole. Heating them slightly prevents cracking and ensures a smoother rolling process.

4. Use a Combination of Cheeses:

   Combining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses offers a delightful balance of sharpness and creaminess. The combination of textures and flavors results in a more complex and satisfying taste. Experimenting with different cheese combinations can personalize the casserole’s flavor profile to individual preferences.

5. Let it Rest:
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   Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set and prevents a messy, overly runny casserole. This brief resting period allows the heat to distribute evenly throughout the dish, resulting in a firmer, more stable casserole that is easier to serve. Patience in this step results in a more appealing final product.

The ease of preparation and delicious outcome make this recipe a versatile choice for various occasions. Its adaptability makes it suitable for adapting to different dietary preferences and readily available ingredients. This casseroles simplicity and ability to satisfy a crowd are significant advantages.

Beyond its culinary merits, this dish embodies efficiency and practicality, fitting seamlessly into busy lifestyles. Its versatility and ease of preparation cater to both experienced and novice cooks.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Beef Enchilada Casserole

This section addresses common queries related to this recipe, aiming to clarify potential uncertainties and provide practical solutions for various cooking scenarios. These questions and answers aim to cover common preparation challenges and enhance the overall cooking experience.

1. Can I use different types of tortillas?

   Yes, you can experiment with flour tortillas or even low-carb tortillas, though corn tortillas are traditional. However, be mindful that different types of tortillas may react differently to the baking process and adjust cooking time as needed. Flour tortillas tend to become softer, while low-carb options might require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

   Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you are ready to bake. Pre-assembling allows for more efficient scheduling, particularly beneficial for busy days. This allows for flexibility in meal preparation and timing.

3. What can I do if I don’t have all the spices?

   While the listed spices contribute to the characteristic flavor, you can adapt the recipe using substitutes or omissions. For example, substituting taco seasoning for the individual spices is a feasible approach, or simply omitting them altogether will still result in an enjoyable casserole, though with a slightly altered flavor profile. The essence of the dish remains enjoyable even with ingredient variations.

This recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal option that is both time-efficient and delicious. Its adaptable nature allows for personalization and caters to different dietary needs and preferences. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and larger gatherings.

In conclusion, this beef enchilada casserole recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor, convenience, and adaptability. Its simplicity and delicious outcome make it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire.