This Enchilada Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish that combines the best of Mexican-inspired flavors in an easy-to-make layered bake. With seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and tender corn tortillas smothered in zesty enchilada sauce, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Customize it with your favorite toppings for an extra kick!
📋 Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (hamburger)
- 1 can enchilada sauce (28 oz can, like El Pato for a spicier option)
- 2–3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well)
- ½ cup diced onion
- Taco seasoning (about 2–3 tablespoons, or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (plus more for sauce)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (plus more for sauce)
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Corn tortillas (about 8–10, depending on size)
- ¼ cup water (for the meat mixture)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Hamburger
- In a large skillet over medium heat , brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
- Drain any excess grease, then return the skillet to low heat . Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Season the Meat
- Add ¼ cup water , taco seasoning , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and coat the meat evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Warm the Enchilada Sauce
- Pour the enchilada sauce into a small pot and warm it over low heat . Stir in additional garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper to taste. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.
- Spread a thin layer of warmed enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Dip each corn tortilla briefly into the enchilada sauce to lightly coat both sides (or use a brush to spread sauce on the tortillas). Layer the tortillas on the bottom of the pan, overlapping them slightly to cover the base.
- Add a layer of the seasoned ground beef mixture , followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese .
- Repeat the layers: tortillas dipped in sauce, meat mixture, and cheese. Continue until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer consists of tortillas and a thick layer of cheese. Make sure there are no gaps to keep the casserole moist.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes .
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
Tips for Success
- Tortilla Prep: To prevent tearing, soften the corn tortillas by microwaving them for 20–30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel.
- Cheese Options: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso fresco for added flavor and meltability.
- Sauce Variations: Swap enchilada sauce for salsa verde or red enchilada sauce based on your preference.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Enchilada Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to assemble and packed with bold, savory flavors. The layers of tender corn tortillas, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese create a satisfying texture and taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit. Dive into this cheesy, saucy delight and let it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6–8 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~450 kcal per serving (varies based on toppings and portion size)
