If you’re craving big, bold flavors in a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish, look no further than Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas. This hearty Mexican-inspired casserole bakes up layers of savory seasoned beef, creamy beans, tender corn tortillas, rich enchilada sauce, and loads of gooey cheese into the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prep, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, and naturally gluten-free — so everyone can dig in happily. Trust me, this is one meal you’ll be reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds) of, every single time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the short and simple ingredient list. Each item here is thoughtfully chosen to build those signature layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible. Let’s see what you need and why it matters:
- Ground beef: A classic base that brings rich flavor and hearty protein to each bite.
- Chopped onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and a mellow savory note that rounds out the filling.
- Minced garlic: Just two cloves unlock aromatic depth and boost the overall savoriness.
- Taco seasoning: All the spices you need for instant Tex-Mex taste, ready to go in one packet.
- Water: Helps the spices blend into the meat for a perfect saucy consistency.
- Black beans (drained and rinsed): Bring fiber, velvety texture, and earthy flavor to the mix.
- Red enchilada sauce (divided): The secret to that signature zing and moisture — don’t skimp!
- Corn tortillas (cut in halves): Essential for sturdy, flavorful layers and a subtle sweetness unique to corn.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection and adds sharpness to balance the sauce.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, it complements cheddar for the ultimate cheese pull.
- Diced green chilies (drained): These mild peppers bring tangy heat and a pop of bright green throughout.
- Sliced black olives (optional): For a briny, lightly salty accent and lovely contrast (if you like olives, don’t skip!).
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish): For a burst of color and herbal freshness just before serving.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which sets the stage for even, bubbly baking. While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving a breeze later on. It’s a small step, but it makes cleanup so much easier!
Step 2: Cook the Beef, Onions, and Garlic
Grab your favorite large skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, then cook together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess grease for a lighter, less oily casserole. Then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just a minute more to bring out that fragrant punch garlic is known for.
Step 3: Season and Simmer the Filling
Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the water. Stir well, making sure all the beef gets coated in those warm spices. Let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes — just enough time for the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. This is where that Tex-Mex aroma really starts to fill the kitchen!
Step 4: Add the Beans and Green Chilies
Mix in the drained black beans and diced green chilies. This quick stir distributes the beans evenly, giving each layer hearty substance and a gentle heat from the chilies. The filling should be thick, saucy, and packed with texture — perfect for layering in your casserole.
Step 5: Start Layering
Pour half a cup of enchilada sauce onto the bottom of your prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the base. Arrange enough corn tortilla halves over the sauce to form a solid layer, overlapping as needed. This forms the foundation of your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas and keeps it beautifully structured.
Step 6: Build the First Filling and Cheese Layer
Spoon half of your beef and bean filling over the tortillas, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese across the top, ensuring every nook gets some cheesy love. Drizzle another half-cup of enchilada sauce over the cheese to keep things deliciously moist.
Step 7: Finish the Layers and Top
Repeat the layering process: another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining beef mixture, more cheese, and the last of your enchilada sauce. Top everything off with the remaining shredded cheese and, if you’re feeling festive, a scattering of sliced black olives for that classic enchilada look.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden-brown, bubbling cheese top — that’s your sign it’s perfectly done. Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before serving; it helps the layers set so you get the perfect slice every time.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the casserole just before serving for a vibrant finish. If you want, set out extra toppings like sour cream, avocado, or shredded lettuce so folks can customize their plate. Dig in and enjoy every melty, saucy forkful!
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas
Garnishes
This casserole is a dream canvas for tasty toppings! Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or creamy avocado for a burst of flavor and color. The tang of sour cream or a squeeze of lime brightens every bite, bringing your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas to life.
Side Dishes
Looking for the perfect things to serve alongside? Mexican rice, charro beans, or a fresh corn salad complement the rich, cheesy layers so well. A crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette is a great option if you want something lighter, balancing the warmth of the casserole with a refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun gatherings or potlucks, cut the Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas into squares and serve them on a big platter, cocktail-party style. Individual ramekins add an elegant touch to family dinners, while serving right from the baking dish keeps it casual and homey. Don’t forget extra toppings and hot sauce on the side for people to play with!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply let it cool, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It’ll stay delicious and moist for up to 4 days — perfect for quick lunches or another round at dinner.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, this casserole is a freezer superstar. Assemble all the layers, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze unbaked. When the craving hits, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes. Already baked leftovers also freeze well, just cool first and wrap in individual portions for easy reheating.
Reheating
To reheat Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas from the fridge, pop a serving (or the whole dish) in a 350°F oven, covered, until hot — about 15–20 minutes. For single servings, the microwave does the trick in a couple of minutes. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating for even more melty goodness!
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas offer a softer texture and a more neutral flavor, though they lack the distinctive corn taste and slightly chewy bite. If you’re not gluten-free, they’ll work just fine, but for the authentic flavor of Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas, corn is hard to beat.
How spicy is this casserole?
The spiciness level is very customizable! As written, the casserole is flavorful but mild, thanks to canned green chilies and red enchilada sauce. For a kick, use hot enchilada sauce or toss in some chopped jalapeños with the beef mixture.
Can I make Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for extra black beans, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute. The cheesy, saucy, layered goodness will still shine and make every veggie-lover swoon!
What’s the best way to get clean slices for serving?
Letting your casserole rest for at least 5 minutes after baking is key. This gives the layers time to set and makes it easier to slice neat squares that hold together on the plate. A metal spatula is your best friend for getting that first piece out perfectly.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply assemble your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas in two 9×13 dishes or use a larger baking pan. You may need to add a little baking time, so check for bubbling cheese and a hot center before serving.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas soon — it’s comfort food at its absolute best, layered with flavor and loved by all. When you bring this cozy casserole to the table, you’re guaranteed happy faces and clean plates. Enjoy every warm, cheesy mouthful, and don’t forget to make it your own with garnishes and sides. Happy cooking!
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Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired dish that is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. Layers of flavorful beef, black beans, cheese, and enchilada sauce are stacked between corn tortillas and baked to perfection, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies, drained
Remaining Ingredients:
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce, divided
- 8 corn tortillas, cut in halves
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Beef: Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned. Add garlic, taco seasoning, and water; simmer. Stir in black beans and green chilies.
- Layer Casserole: Spread enchilada sauce in baking dish. Layer with tortillas, beef mixture, cheeses, and enchilada sauce. Repeat layering. Top with cheese and olives.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let rest, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
Notes
- Try using green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Pair with sour cream, avocado slices, or shredded lettuce for added freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
