Name: Beef Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground chuck; 1/2 medium white onion, diced (about 1 cup); 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon); 1/2 none jalapeño, deseeded and minced (optional, about 1 tablespoon); 2 packets taco seasoning (or 56 grams (1/2 cup) homemade); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup beef stock or water; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15-ounce (425g)); 3 1/2 cups red enchilada sauce (canned or homemade); 1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 5 cups, lightly packed); sour cream; chopped cilantro; sliced jalapeños

Introduction to Beef Enchilada Casserole

What is Beef Enchilada Casserole and Why It's Perfect for Young Professionals?

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and cheese, all layered between scrumptious corn tortillas soaked in flavorful enchilada sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of hearty ingredients coming together in one beautiful dish that will warm your kitchen and your heart.

Young professionals, listen up! This casserole is the answer to those busy weeknights when you’re too tired to whip up an elaborate dinner. With a prep time of just 30 minutes and a total cook time of around 65 minutes, this dish allows you to spend less time worrying about what to cook and more time enjoying a delicious meal with friends or family. Plus, it yields 6 to 8 servings, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining without breaking a sweat.

Not only is it simple, but it's also budget-friendly. You can customize the recipe easily—perhaps add more veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. For tips on how to create the perfect beef enchilada casserole, check out this guide on Mexican cuisine to inspire your culinary creativity!

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a feel-good meal, Beef Enchilada Casserole has got you covered. Enjoy the flavors and the company!

Ingredients for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Primary ingredients for the casserole

To whip up a delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole, you'll need some core ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Start with 2 pounds of ground chuck, perfect for that hearty protein base. You'll also want ½ medium white onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic for aromatic depth. A touch of jalapeño, if you're feeling spicy, and taco seasoning will elevate the robust flavors. Black beans add a nutritious touch, while red enchilada sauce envelopes everything in a tangy embrace. Corn tortillas are key to creating those delicious layers, and don’t forget a generous amount of Monterey Jack cheese for that gooey finish!

Optional toppings to elevate flavor

To really make your casserole shine, consider adding some optional toppings. Sour cream offers a creamy coolness, while chopped cilantro brings freshness. If you love a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños are a fantastic addition that can be sprinkled on just before serving. These small extras can transform your Beef Enchilada Casserole into something truly special!

Step-by-step Preparation for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Creating a Beef Enchilada Casserole is not just a culinary task; it’s an experience that brings comfort to the dinner table. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious casserole that will impress family and friends.

Preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly melted and golden. Preheating is a crucial step that often gets overlooked, but it definitely sets the stage for a successful dish.

Brown the ground chuck

In a medium 12-inch skillet, add 2 pounds of ground chuck over medium heat. Break the meat into smaller pieces using a wooden spoon, ensuring it's evenly browned. This should take about 6 to 7 minutes—watch for that pink to disappear! Once browned, carefully spoon off any excess grease. This little detail goes a long way in keeping your meal from being too greasy.

Sauté onions, garlic, and jalapeño

Next, add ½ diced onion, 3 cloves minced garlic, and ½ minced jalapeño if you like a bit of heat. Sauté these veggies for about 6 minutes until the onions become translucent. The aroma will be tantalizing! At this stage, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and kosher salt and add ½ cup of beef stock or water to keep your mixture moist. Stir in 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, rinsed and drained, for added protein and flavor.

Layer the casserole with tortillas and fillings

Now comes the fun part—layering! Pour 2 ½ cups of red enchilada sauce into a shallow dish, dipping each corn tortilla to coat. Start layering in your 9x13-inch casserole dish. Lay the tortillas down, slightly overlapping them, before adding ¾ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Spoon half of the beef mixture over this, top it with more cheese, and repeat. Finish with a final layer of tortillas and the remaining enchilada sauce, topped off with more cheese.

Bake the casserole to perfection

Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, golden top that beckons for you to dig in.

Cool and garnish before serving

Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool for 10 to 15 minutes. This brief resting period makes serving easier and allows flavors to settle. Cut it into squares, then add your desired toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for that zesty finish.

There you go! Your Beef Enchilada Casserole is now ready to be enjoyed. How often do you get a dish that feels like a warm hug? You might also want to check out more recipe options on Simply Recipes for inspiration!

Variations on Beef Enchilada Casserole

Vegetarian Version with Beans and Veggies

If you're looking to enjoy Beef Enchilada Casserole in a meatless style, try swapping out the beef for a colorful medley of vegetables and protein-packed beans. Use bell peppers, zucchini, and corn combined with black beans for a hearty texture. Simply follow the same layering method, and don’t forget to load it up with plenty of cheese and enchilada sauce!

Spicy Version for the Heat Lovers

For those who love an extra kick, elevate your Beef Enchilada Casserole by adding more spices! Increase the amount of jalapeño or experiment with serrano peppers. You might even add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to your beef mixture. The key is to balance the heat with the rich flavors of cheese and sauce, making each bite irresistibly delicious. For some pro tips on spicy cooking, check out Chili Pepper Madness.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Best cheese options to use

When making your Beef Enchilada Casserole, the cheese can elevate the dish. Monterey Jack is fantastic for its creamy melt, but consider blending it with Cheddar for a sharper flavor. For something a bit different, try Pepper Jack to add a little heat. A mix of cheeses brings depth and richness to every bite!

How to avoid a soggy casserole

To keep your casserole from becoming soggy, ensure your tortillas are well-drained after dipping into the enchilada sauce. Using corn tortillas is a great choice, as they hold up well. You can also consider baking the casserole uncovered for the last few minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate. Following these tips will guarantee a deliciously layered casserole that's not too watery!

Serving Suggestions for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal

To elevate your Beef Enchilada Casserole into a satisfying meal, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and avocado drizzled with lime vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. For an extra crunch, add tortilla chips or make a quick guacamole. Looking for a drink? A refreshing mango or hibiscus iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Serve Leftovers

Leftover Beef Enchilada Casserole can be a culinary adventure. Try transforming it into a breakfast dish by reheating a portion and adding a sunny-side-up egg on top. Alternatively, consider layering the casserole mixture inside a tortilla for a snazzy wrap. You could also bake it in mini portions in muffin tins for fun, hand-held bites. These simple twists can turn leftovers into exciting new meals that keep the flavor alive!

Time Breakdown for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Preparation time

To kick off your culinary adventure, set aside 30 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients, browning the meat, and layering your casserole to perfection.

Cooking time

Once assembled, your Beef Enchilada Casserole will need 35 minutes in the oven. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheese to melt just right.

Total time

In total, plan for 65 minutes from start to finish. With minimal fuss, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade meal that warms your soul and delights your taste buds!

For more helpful tips, check out how to make classic enchilada sauce or taco seasoning. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Beef Enchilada Casserole

Calories per serving

Each serving of this delightful Beef Enchilada Casserole packs approximately 792 calories. It's a hearty meal that’s perfect for satisfying your appetite after a long day.

Protein content

You’ll be happy to know that this casserole provides a robust 53g of protein per serving! That makes it a fantastic option for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a comforting dish.

Common allergens

Be mindful that this recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (from cheese) and corn (from tortillas). If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies, consider using alternative ingredients like dairy-free cheese or corn-free tortillas to ensure everyone can enjoy it.

For more detailed nutritional info, you can also check resources like MyFitnessPal or NutritionalData for further insights.

FAQs about Beef Enchilada Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your Beef Enchilada Casserole a day in advance. Just assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, pop it in the oven, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time.

How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy! Allow your Beef Enchilada Casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until it’s warmed through for a delicious second meal.

What can I substitute for the ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, consider using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option like lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian twist. Each option can bring a unique flavor profile while still giving you that comforting casserole experience. Check out this article for more substitution ideas!

Conclusion on Beef Enchilada Casserole

Creating a homemade Beef Enchilada Casserole brings a delightful blend of flavors to your table and fills your home with warmth. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, now's the perfect time! Gather your ingredients, and bring joy and comfort to your family with this delicious dish. Happy cooking!