Arabella Lombardi A beef enchilada recipe casserole offers a convenient and flavorful alternative to individual enchiladas. This recipe simplifies the preparation process while maintaining the rich taste of traditional enchiladas. The casserole’s layered construction ensures even cooking and a satisfyingly cheesy, meaty result. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, offering a hearty and adaptable main course that’s sure to please. The casserole format also makes it simple to transport for potlucks or other events. This comprehensive guide will detail the preparation, ingredients, and helpful tips for creating a delicious beef enchilada casserole.
The beauty of a beef enchilada casserole lies in its adaptability. Variations in the type of beef, cheese, and chili peppers used allow for personalized flavor profiles. One can easily adjust the spice level to suit individual preferences, making it a versatile dish for a range of palates. The casserole’s inherent ease of preparation allows for efficient meal planning, and leftovers reheat well, making it a practical choice for busy schedules. The recipe’s inherent flexibility allows cooks of all skill levels to produce a delicious and impressive dish.
The casseroles one-pan design simplifies cleanup, a significant benefit for time-conscious cooks. This recipe’s versatility extends beyond individual preferences, enabling accommodation for dietary restrictions with substitutions in cheese, filling, and even the tortilla base.
Ingredients for Beef Enchilada Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn or flour tortillas
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions for Beef Enchilada Casserole
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for Beef Enchilada Casserole
This beef enchilada casserole recipe provides a detailed breakdown of the preparation time, including both the cooking and baking phases, alongside the number of servings. Understanding these factors ensures optimal preparation and efficient meal planning. Accurate estimates consider variations in oven temperature and ingredient preparation. The table below provides a clear overview of the timing and yield of this recipe. Note that slight variations may occur depending on your oven and cooking style.
| Category | Time/Quantity |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6-8 |
Nutritional Information for Beef Enchilada Casserole
The nutritional profile of this beef enchilada casserole is influenced by the ingredients. The ground beef provides protein, while the cheese contributes fat and calcium. The vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. A detailed nutritional analysis per serving is provided below, offering a clear understanding of the recipe’s caloric and macro-nutrient content. This information helps in making informed dietary choices.
Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. For a precise analysis, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400-500 |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40-50g |
Tips for Cooking Beef Enchilada Casserole
Several techniques can enhance the final product of this dish. Attention to detail in each step contributes to a superior outcome. These tips provide guidance for achieving optimal flavor and texture.
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Use high-quality ingredients:
Employing premium ground beef, fresh onions, and flavorful cheeses directly impacts the casserole’s overall taste. Using better-quality ingredients will result in a more delicious end product. Choose cheeses that melt well for optimal gooeyness. Experiment with different types of chili peppers for diverse flavor profiles.
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Don’t overcook the beef:
Overcooked beef can become dry and tough. Ensure the beef is properly browned but not overcooked. This prevents the filling from becoming dry and ensures a more tender texture in the final dish. Properly browning the beef adds depth of flavor.
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Warm the tortillas:
Warming the tortillas before filling them makes them more pliable and less likely to break. This prevents cracks and allows for easier rolling of the enchiladas. You can warm them in the microwave or a dry skillet.
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Layer the casserole properly:
Proper layering ensures even cooking and a visually appealing presentation. Start with a layer of sauce at the bottom and top for a moist and flavorful casserole. The layers ensure that the flavors meld well.
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Let it rest:
Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up. This step improves the overall eating experience.
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Adjust the spice level:
Adjust the amount of chili powder and other spices to your preference. This enables customization to suit different taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper adds an extra kick.
The versatility of this casserole extends to numerous variations and creative adaptations. Experimentation with different cheeses, vegetables, or beans opens a world of flavorful possibilities. The fundamental structure of this recipe provides a solid foundation for culinary exploration and personalization.
Careful attention to the cooking process and ingredient selection guarantees a consistently exceptional dish. Following the steps outlined ensures success in creating this flavorful and satisfying meal. Mastering the techniques provides a base for numerous future variations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Beef Enchilada Casserole
This section addresses common questions regarding the preparation and nuances of this recipe, ensuring a smooth and successful cooking experience. The answers provided are comprehensive and address potential challenges in a clear and helpful manner.
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Can I use leftover cooked beef?
Yes, you can certainly use leftover cooked beef. Simply shred or chop it and skip the step of browning the beef in the skillet. This method saves time and is ideal for using leftover roasts or other cooked beef. Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This is a useful option for meal prepping. Increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
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What kind of tortillas should I use?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well. Corn tortillas offer a slightly more rustic texture, while flour tortillas provide a softer, more pliable option. Personal preference dictates the choice of tortilla. Experiment to find your favorite.
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Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole both before and after baking. For best results, cool the casserole completely, then wrap it tightly in freezer-safe wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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What can I substitute for the cheese?
Many cheeses can be substituted for cheddar and Monterey Jack. Other Mexican-style blends, pepper jack, or even a combination of different cheeses can be used, creating a personalized flavor profile. Experiment with your favorite cheeses.
The adaptability of this beef enchilada casserole recipe allows for considerable customization. Understanding the nuances of each step leads to a superior product. This dish easily accommodates variations in taste and dietary needs.
With practice and experimentation, you can master this recipe and create a truly delicious and personalized beef enchilada casserole every time. Remember that the most important aspect is enjoying the cooking process and the final result.
In conclusion, this guide provides a comprehensive approach to creating a successful beef enchilada casserole, addressing key aspects from ingredient selection to cooking techniques and troubleshooting. The recipe’s versatility and ease of preparation make it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire.