Description
A hearty and flavorful Enchilada Casserole combining savory ground beef, black beans, and vibrant enchilada sauce layered with soft corn tortillas and melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly baked to create a cheesy, comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Beans and Sauces
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
Other Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake your casserole perfectly.
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add beans and spices: Stir in the black beans, diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 2 more minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the baking dish: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer tortillas: Place 4 corn tortillas over the sauce, overlapping slightly if necessary to cover the surface.
- Add first layers of filling: Spread half of the meat and bean mixture evenly over the tortillas, then spoon half of the remaining enchilada sauce on top, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layering: Add the remaining 4 tortillas on top, then layer the rest of the meat mixture, enchilada sauce, and cheese to complete the casserole layers.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired to add a fresh, herbaceous note.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use flour tortillas if corn tortillas are unavailable but adjust baking time as needed.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- For a vegetarian version, omit ground beef and add extra beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
