Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole

When I think of comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole. Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table on Sunday evenings, and this dish was always the star of the show. The aroma of seasoned beef mingling with the rich, cheesy goodness filled the house, drawing us all together with a sense of warmth and togetherness. I remember how my siblings and I would eagerly await the first bite, each of us trying to claim the biggest portion of that bubbling, cheesy casserole. It’s a dish that’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the memories made while sharing it. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole, it will become a staple in your household, too.

Ingredients for Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole

Crafting a delightful Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole begins with choosing the right ingredients. The harmony of these components plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish. From the hearty beef to the gooey cheese, each ingredient contributes something special. Let’s explore the key players that make this casserole irresistible.

• 1¼ lb ground beef: The foundation of this casserole, it adds rich flavor and protein.
• 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: This blend brings a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• ½ cup water: Helps to combine the seasoning with the beef.
• 1 (10-oz) can enchilada sauce: Provides a zesty and tangy base that ties everything together.
• 1 (10-oz) can Rotel tomatoes and diced green chiles, undrained: Adds moisture and a touch of heat.
• 12 (6-inch) flour tortillas: The vehicle for all the delicious filling and sauce.
• 6 oz cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to each bite.
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: The gooey, melty topping that makes this casserole so comforting.

Instructions for Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole

Making this Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole is a breeze. You’ll be amazed at how quickly the steps come together, leading to a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Follow along for a step-by-step guide on preparing this delicious meal.

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. This is crucial to ensure that your casserole bakes evenly. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula. Once the beef is no longer pink and has browned nicely, drain any excess fat.
3. Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes. This process intensifies the flavors of the beef.
4. Next, pour in the enchilada sauce and the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes and diced green chiles. Stir well and let this mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes. The sauce should be bubbling and fragrant.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and prepare your baking dish. Spread half of the sauce mixture in the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating a nice base for the casserole.
6. Now, take the cream cheese and spread it evenly on the flour tortillas. This step adds a creamy layer that melts beautifully during baking.
7. Next, sprinkle about 2 cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend on top of the cream cheese. Then, fold each tortilla in half, creating a pocket for the delicious filling.
8. Arrange the folded tortillas on top of the meat sauce in the baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the tortillas, making sure to cover them generously.
9. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top of the sauce. This will create a wonderfully cheesy crust that’s hard to resist.
10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.

Tips and Tricks about Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole

This Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole comes with plenty of tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Here are some helpful pointers:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Pairing: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even corn to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spiciness Control: If you prefer a milder dish, opt for mild taco seasoning and canned tomatoes without chiles.
• Cheese Varieties: Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheese blend. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can add exciting flavors.

Serving Options for Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole

Serving the Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole is as enjoyable as preparing it. Here are some creative ideas for presentation and accompaniment:

• Family Dinner: Serve it straight from the baking dish for a casual family dinner. It encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy together.
• Lunch Box: Make it a complete meal by adding a side of Mexican corn salad or chips to your lunch box.
• Game Day: This casserole is perfect for game day gatherings. Pair it with a refreshing salsa and tortilla chips for dipping.
• Celebrations: Serve it as part of a buffet during celebrations, allowing guests to serve themselves. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Garnishes: Top individual servings with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve it with a light salad. In winter, add warm, crusty bread for a comforting meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole is truly a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s an easy recipe that you can whip up for a quick weeknight dinner or for entertaining friends and family. I encourage you to try it out and experience the joy it brings to your table!

Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Beef Cheese Enchilada Casserole combines rich flavors and creamy textures for an easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings! You won't want to miss making this crowd-pleaser tonight.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 10-inch Skillet
• 9x13-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients

  

• 1¼ lb ground beef
• 1 oz taco seasoning package
• ½ cup water
• 1 10-oz can enchilada sauce
• 1 10-oz can Rotel tomatoes and diced green chiles, undrained
• 12 6-inch flour tortillas
• 6 oz cream cheese
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF. This is crucial to ensure that your casserole bakes evenly. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula. Once the beef is no longer pink and has browned nicely, drain any excess fat.
• Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes. This process intensifies the flavors of the beef.
• Next, pour in the enchilada sauce and the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes and diced green chiles. Stir well and let this mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes. The sauce should be bubbling and fragrant.
• Remove the skillet from heat and prepare your baking dish. Spread half of the sauce mixture in the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating a nice base for the casserole.
• Now, take the cream cheese and spread it evenly on the flour tortillas. This step adds a creamy layer that melts beautifully during baking.
• Next, sprinkle about 2 cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend on top of the cream cheese. Then, fold each tortilla in half, creating a pocket for the delicious filling.
• Arrange the folded tortillas on top of the meat sauce in the baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the tortillas, making sure to cover them generously.
• Finally, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top of the sauce. This will create a wonderfully cheesy crust that’s hard to resist.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can use any tortilla that you prefer, flour or corn both work fine.
• Tip 2: For a low-carb dish, use a low-carb enchilada sauce with no sugar added.
• Tip 3: Feel free to add vegetables to the tortillas – onions, peppers, diced green chiles, tomatoes, corn, and black beans are all great additions.
• Tip 4: If you’d like a milder flavor, use a can of mild Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles.
• Tip 5: For a lower calorie option, substitute ground turkey for the beef.

Keyword Beef Enchilada Casserole, Cheesy Enchiladas, Easy Casserole Recipes, Mexican Dinner Ideas