If you love hearty, flavorful dishes that bring all the classic Mexican flare into one cozy meal, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe is absolutely going to steal your heart. Picture layers of tender ground beef, seasoned just right with chili powder and cumin, mingling with black beans, corn, and melty Mexican cheese all nestled between soft corn tortillas. It bakes into a bubbly, comforting casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as satisfying leftovers. Every bite bursts with rich, vibrant flavors that make it a go-to dish for any weeknight or festive occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a key role, from adding texture to building layers of flavor that keep every mouthful interesting and delicious.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that provides rich, meaty flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a subtle, aromatic punch that’s indispensable in Mexican cooking.
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Brings creamy texture and a nutritious boost to the layers.
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained: Offers pops of natural sweetness and color contrast.
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce: The saucy glue that ties all layers together with a tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a mild heat and classic Southwestern flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth to balance the spices.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- 8-10 small corn tortillas: The star carbohydrate that soaks up flavors and softens into perfect layers.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for a creamy, savory topping.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: Brings a bright, fresh note to finish the dish with.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and won’t stick, giving you perfect slices to serve later.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s mostly cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Then add your chopped onion and minced garlic right to the pan, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor that makes every bite rich.
Step 3: Mix in Beans, Corn, and Seasonings
Stir in the black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to your beef mixture, then pour in about half a cup of the enchilada sauce and give everything a good toss. This combination adds color, texture, and those classic Mexican seasonings that make the dish sing.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Begin by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Then layer the corn tortillas, tearing them slightly if necessary to cover the surface evenly. Spoon half of your beef mixture over the tortillas, sprinkle with cheese, then add another tortilla layer. Spread half the remaining enchilada sauce, followed by the remaining beef mixture, tortillas, sauce, and finish with the rest of the shredded cheese on top. Layering with care is what turns simple ingredients into a mouthwatering casserole.
Step 5: Bake and Rest Your Casserole
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving—this helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and keeps all those flavors locked in.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro chopped over the top adds a vibrant, herbal brightness that compliments the rich, cheesy casserole perfectly. You can also add slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of creaminess and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or lightly seasoned black beans to round out the meal. A simple corn salsa or pickled jalapeños can also add a fun contrast in flavor and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. For a party, consider making smaller, individual servings in ramekins for a charming presentation. Or, layer the casserole in a glass dish to showcase the colorful strata of beef, beans, sauce, and cheese—talk about food that looks as good as it tastes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making your next meal just as tasty, if not better.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick fix, or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and bubbling. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning and remove foil for the last few minutes if you want to crisp up the cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Absolutely! While corn tortillas are traditional and offer a great texture and flavor, flour tortillas work in a pinch. Just keep in mind they’re softer and less crumbly, which might slightly change the texture of your casserole.
What can I substitute for the black beans?
If black beans aren’t your favorite or you need an alternative, pinto beans or kidney beans both make great replacements and keep the dish hearty and filling.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe is mildly spiced with chili powder and cumin, so it’s flavorful without being too hot. Feel free to add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne if you like it spicy.
Can I prepare this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use a plant-based meat substitute to keep it comforting and packed with flavor.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Using corn tortillas keeps this dish naturally gluten-free, just be sure your enchilada sauce and other ingredients don’t contain gluten-based additives. Most store-bought sauces are gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the label.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of homemade goodness to your table. From its simple ingredients to the layered textures and rich seasonings, every bite tells a story of comfort and celebration. I promise once you try it, it will become one of your favorite dishes to make again and again—perfect for busy nights or a fun family dinner. So grab those corn tortillas and get ready to enjoy a dish full of heart and soul!
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This comforting Beef Enchilada Casserole with Corn Tortillas combines layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce with melted Mexican cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
Spices and Sauces
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Base and Toppings
- 8–10 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Seasonings: Stir in the drained black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce and mix well to combine all the flavors. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Layer Sauce and Tortillas: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer on corn tortillas, tearing them as needed to fit snugly over the sauce.
- Add Beef Mixture and Cheese: Spoon half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla layer, then sprinkle with a portion of the shredded cheese. Add another tortilla layer on top.
- Layer Sauce and Repeat: Spread half of the remaining enchilada sauce over the new layer of tortillas. Repeat the layers by adding the rest of the beef mixture, tortillas, the remaining enchilada sauce, and finally top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the ingredients to heat through and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered and Rest: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- If you prefer, use flour tortillas but keep in mind the flavor will be different from traditional corn tortillas.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, then baked just before serving.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
