Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas Recipe

If you're craving a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a get-together, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is a must-try. Layers of tender beef, savory enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and soft corn tortillas come together in a mouth-watering casserole that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Stick around to get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions, as well as some helpful tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

What Is Beef Enchilada Casserole?

A beef enchilada casserole is a layered dish inspired by classic Mexican enchiladas, but instead of rolling individual tortillas around a filling, you layer all the ingredients in a baking dish for a quicker and easier preparation. This particular version uses corn tortillas, which give the dish an authentic texture and flavor. The beef is seasoned with spices, simmered with onions and garlic, and then layered with enchilada sauce and cheese for a delicious, cheesy casserole that’s ideal for feeding a crowd.

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Ingredients List for Beef Enchilada Casserole With Corn Tortillas

To make this delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef: You can use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• 12 small corn tortillas: These add an authentic taste and texture.
• 2 cups enchilada sauce: Use store-bought or homemade enchilada sauce.
• 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds flavor to the beef mixture.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the richness of the beef.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A key spice that gives the beef its Mexican-inspired flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds some heat and flavor to the beef.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheese: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Optional, for garnish.
• Sour cream and sliced jalapeños (optional): For serving.

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Sliced avocado
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped green onions

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Substitutions and Variations

If you want to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Protein Options: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even beans for a vegetarian version.
• Tortillas: If you prefer flour tortillas over corn, feel free to use them. However, corn tortillas offer a more authentic texture and flavor for enchiladas.
• Cheese: You can experiment with different cheeses like queso fresco, pepper jack, or even a vegan cheese substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and add jalapeños if you prefer a spicier casserole. For a milder version, use less chili powder or opt for a mild enchilada sauce.
• Sauce: Homemade enchilada sauce is an excellent option if you want more control over the ingredients. You can also try green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetables: Add layers of veggies like bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the casserole to make it more nutritious.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to prepare this delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
• Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the spices evenly.
• Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

• While the beef is cooking, lightly toast the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. This step helps to strengthen the tortillas so they don’t get too soggy in the casserole. You can toast each side for about 30 seconds or until slightly crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish.
• Place a layer of corn tortillas (about 4) on top of the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
• Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by ⅓ of the shredded cheese and a generous amount of enchilada sauce.
• Repeat the layers: another layer of tortillas, the rest of the beef, more cheese, and enchilada sauce.
• Finish the casserole with a final layer of tortillas, the remaining enchilada sauce, and top it off with the remaining shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Tortilla Toasting: If you skip toasting the tortillas, they can become soggy and fall apart when layered with the sauce.
2. Overloading with Sauce: While it’s tempting to go heavy on the enchilada sauce, too much sauce can make the casserole overly soggy.
3. Not Draining the Beef: After browning the beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to avoid greasy layers in your casserole.
4. Undercooking the Beef: Make sure the beef is fully cooked before layering it into the casserole to ensure proper texture and flavor.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Beef Enchilada Casserole is baked to perfection, here are some serving and presentation ideas to make the dish stand out:

How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Serve each slice of casserole hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and optional sliced jalapeños for added heat.
• You can pair the casserole with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Garnish the top of the casserole with freshly chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes for a pop of color.
• Add some thinly sliced avocado on top of each slice for a creamy and visually appealing finish.
• Place small bowls of salsa, guacamole, and extra sour cream on the table for guests to customize their servings.

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Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply pop it in the oven for a stress-free dinner.
2. Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
3. Leftovers: The casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if you prefer. However, corn tortillas give the casserole a more authentic enchilada flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner.

Q3: Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and corn tortillas, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels of any store-bought ingredients to be sure.

Q4: How spicy is this casserole?
The level of spiciness depends on the enchilada sauce and chili powder you use. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild sauce and reduce the amount of chili powder.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

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Conclusion

This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas is the perfect dish when you're craving Mexican comfort food without the hassle of rolling individual enchiladas. With layers of flavorful ground beef, melty cheese, and authentic corn tortillas, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Plus, it's easy to make, customizable with your favorite toppings, and even better as leftovers. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let it become a staple in your meal rotation!

Don't forget to bookmark this recipe for future reference, and feel free to share it with others who love Mexican-inspired dishes!

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