Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and black beans layered between corn tortillas and topped with melted colby jack cheese, baked to golden perfection. Its rich and hearty flavors combined with a delicious cheesy crust make it a family favorite casserole.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small diced yellow onion (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 pound ground beef (can be swapped with ground chicken)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4.5 ounces diced green chiles
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
For Assembly
- 12 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- 3 cups shredded colby jack cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season and Thicken: Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, and flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to incorporate the flour and spices.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add the diced green chiles, black beans, and remaining diced yellow onion. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to thicken the sauce and meld flavors.
- Preheat Oven and Assemble Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom.
- Layer Tortillas and Filling: Place 4 corn tortillas evenly over the beef layer. Spread one-third of the beef mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle one cup of shredded colby jack cheese. Repeat this layering twice more, ending with cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets and is easier to cut. Garnish as desired and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the flour used is gluten-free or omit it and simmer sauce longer to thicken.
- This casserole reheats well and makes great leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
