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Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This hearty enchilada casserole layers seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melty cheese between corn tortillas for a comforting and satisfying meal. Quick to assemble and easy to bake, it skips the fuss of rolling enchiladas while delivering bold flavor in every bite. The red enchilada sauce soaks into the tortillas, creating a rich texture, while the taco-spiced beef adds protein and warmth. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, this dish is also versatile—swap the beef for chicken or beans to suit your preferences. Garnish with cilantro and enjoy with your favorite sides.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:24:56 GMT
A casserole with ground beef and tomatoes. Bookmark
A casserole with ground beef and tomatoes. | ioanacooks.com

This comforting ground beef enchilada casserole brings together rich flavors and easy assembly into one satisfying meal. With layers of seasoned beef black beans tortillas and melted cheese it delivers the essence of classic enchiladas without the extra effort. Perfect for hectic weeknights or cozy family dinners this dish is always a hit at my table.

The first time I tried this approach was during a busy holiday week and it instantly became a family favorite we now make it monthly

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: provides the savory base and adds protein
  • Yellow onion: adds sweetness and depth when sautéed
  • Red bell pepper: brightens the dish with mild pepper flavor
  • Taco seasoning: infuses the meat with bold spice blend
  • Water: helps blend the seasoning into the meat evenly
  • Red enchilada sauce: binds everything with tangy rich flavor
  • Black beans: offer fiber and earthy creaminess
  • Corn tortillas: hold up better than flour and add authentic texture
  • Cheddar cheese: brings creamy melty richness
  • Fresh cilantro: adds a fresh herbal finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Cook ground beef onion and bell pepper in a skillet over medium high heat until beef is browned and vegetables are soft about eight minutes. If needed drain excess fat.
Season the Mixture:
Add taco seasoning and water stirring thoroughly and simmer for two to three minutes. Stir in black beans and one and a half cups enchilada sauce and cook five minutes until flavors meld.
Preheat the Oven:
Heat the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.
Build the First Layer:
Spread half a cup of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch dish. Arrange six tortillas to cover the base slightly overlapping. Spoon half the beef mixture on top and spread evenly. Sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheese.
Add the Second Layer:
Place the remaining six tortillas over the first layer. Spread remaining beef mixture then top with the rest of the cheese about one and a half cups.
Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake twenty minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden and the sauce is hot throughout.
Rest and Garnish:
Allow the casserole to rest for ten minutes before slicing to help set. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
A close up of a delicious ground beef enchilada casserole. Bookmark
A close up of a delicious ground beef enchilada casserole. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the full tray in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until heated through

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian friends can use extra beans mushrooms or zucchini in place of meat for a hearty twist

A close up of a delicious ground beef enchilada casserole. Bookmark
A close up of a delicious ground beef enchilada casserole. | ioanacooks.com

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice simple green salad guacamole or refried beans. Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor

Cultural Context

Inspired by traditional Mexican enchiladas this baked version reflects Tex Mex comfort food culture. It simplifies technique without sacrificing flavor making it more accessible for everyday home cooking

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 5–10 minutes to baking time if cold.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the full dish in a 350°F oven until hot throughout.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

→ What cheese works best in this casserole?

Cheddar is classic, but you can also use pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for varied flavor.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives?

Yes, omit the meat and double the beans or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.

→ Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes, a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and other spices works great and lets you control the flavor.

Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

Layered enchilada casserole with beef, beans, and cheese for easy weeknight comfort.

Time Needed to Prep
30 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Overall Time
50 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Mexican-American

Number of Portions: 6 How Many It Serves (1 large 9x13-inch casserole)

Dietary Preferences: No Gluten

Ingredients You'll Need

→ For the Casserole

Ingredient 01 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
Ingredient 02 1 small yellow onion, diced
Ingredient 03 1 red bell pepper, diced
Ingredient 04 1 packet taco seasoning
Ingredient 05 1/4 cup water
Ingredient 06 2 cups red enchilada sauce
Ingredient 07 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
Ingredient 08 12 corn tortillas
Ingredient 09 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Ingredient 10 Fresh cilantro, for garnish

→ Homemade Taco Seasoning (Optional)

Ingredient 11 1 tablespoon chili powder
Ingredient 12 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Ingredient 13 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Ingredient 14 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Ingredient 15 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ingredient 16 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Ingredient 17 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and bell pepper until beef is browned and vegetables are softened, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Stir in taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined. Add black beans and 1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 03

Set oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 04

Spread 1/2 cup enchilada sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange 6 tortillas over the sauce, overlapping slightly. Spread half of the beef mixture and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 05

Top with remaining 6 tortillas, then add remaining beef mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheese.

Step 06

Place dish in oven and bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 07

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Extra Tips

  1. Use lean ground beef to avoid draining excess fat.
  2. Make the taco seasoning from scratch to adjust spice levels.
  3. Casserole can be assembled a day in advance and baked later.
  4. Corn tortillas offer better structure than flour tortillas.
  5. Leftovers freeze well and reheat easily.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Oven
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from shredded cheese
  • May contain gluten if using flour tortillas or seasoning with additives

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 460
  • Total Fat: 24 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 38 grams
  • Protein Amount: 25 grams