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This Beef Enchilada Casserole with corn tortillas brings together tender seasoned beef, melty cheese, and that classic enchilada sauce depth into one satisfying bake. The corn tortillas give each bite a robust and toasty flavor while keeping things naturally gluten free. It is the kind of weeknight recipe you can rely on to warm up the table in under an hour.
I have turned to this casserole on rainy nights when nothing but a comforting Mexican-inspired dinner would do. After making it with both mild and spicy enchilada sauces over the years my family always asks for seconds.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings rich savory flavor and satisfying protein look for beef with a bit of fat for juiciness
- Corn tortillas: add authentic texture and keep the dish gluten free choose fresh tortillas that are still flexible
- Enchilada sauce: ties everything together select your spice level and choose a brand with bold chili notes
- Shredded cheese: like cheddar or Mexican blend adds gooeyness and richness buy cheese in blocks and shred for best melt
- Onion: adds sweetness and complexity go for yellow or white onions that feel firm and heavy
- Garlic: sharpens the flavor opt for fresh garlic cloves with tight skin no sprouting
- Cumin: gives warm earthiness for maximum flavor use freshly ground if possible
- Chili powder: adds a signature kick and smokiness choose a brand that combines a variety of peppers for depth
- Salt: brings balance and lifts all the flavors use kosher salt for best seasoning control
- Olive oil: helps soften the aromatics and rounds out the flavor use extra virgin for a subtle touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it is fully heated when the casserole is assembled
- Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
Add chopped onion and sauté about five minutes until translucent and soft which starts your flavor foundation
Stir in minced garlic cumin chili powder and salt and let them bloom for one minute so the spices toast and release their scents
Add ground beef and break it up as it browns mix and cook until no pink remains and everything is coated with spice and onion about five to seven minutes - Layer the Baking Dish:
- Place a single layer of corn tortillas on the bottom of your baking dish making sure there are no big gaps or overlaps
Spoon a third of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas spreading it all the way to the edges for every bite to have flavor - Add Sauce and Cheese:
- Drizzle a generous layer of enchilada sauce over the beef spreading with the back of a spoon
Scatter a layer of shredded cheese so it covers the sauce - Repeat the Layers:
- Continue layering tortillas beef enchilada sauce and cheese until all ingredients are used up usually two to three layers
- Finish with Cheese and Sauce:
- Top with a final heavy layer of cheese plus a drizzle of enchilada sauce for that golden bubbly crust
- Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer to the oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbling plus the sauce around the edges is starting to caramelize
- Rest Before Serving:
- Let the hot casserole cool for five to ten minutes before cutting and serving since this helps the layers set up and makes slicing neater
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I always look forward to spooning extra sauce onto my serving and letting it soak into the tortilla edges. Growing up my family would gather around the table for enchilada night and those moments of sharing this dish always make it taste even better.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat use a microwave for a quick lunch or restore the cheesy top by baking uncovered for fifteen minutes at three hundred fifty degrees. You can freeze individual portions by wrapping tightly then thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter casserole that is just as flavorful. Some nights I swap in pinto or black beans for half the beef to add even more fiber and make it stretch further. Dairy free cheese melts surprisingly well on top if you need to keep it vegan.
Serving Suggestions
Top each serving with sour cream diced avocado or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for cool fresh contrast. My favorite side is a crunchy salad or simple roasted veggies to balance the richness. To make the casserole go further serve with rice or a spoon of refried beans on the side.
Cultural Note
This casserole is inspired by classic Tex Mex enchiladas which are all about comfort layered flavors and coming together over a big shareable meal. It takes favorite flavors from Mexican cuisine and adapts them for busy home kitchens every family puts their own twist on it which is why it is such a beloved staple.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different meat besides beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative, maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → Are corn tortillas essential?
Corn tortillas provide authentic flavor and keep the dish gluten-free, but flour tortillas may be used if preferred.
- → What cheeses work well in this dish?
A cheddar or Mexican blend melts beautifully, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add extra richness or spice.
- → How spicy is the final casserole?
Spice level depends on the enchilada sauce and chili powder. Choose mild or hot versions to match your taste.
- → What toppings pair well with this casserole?
Finish with sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado for creaminess and color.