Arabella Lombardi This article provides a comprehensive guide to a delicious beef enchiladas casserole recipe, detailing the ingredients, instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips for achieving optimal results. The recipe offers a convenient and flavorful alternative to traditional enchiladas, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This detailed approach ensures a successful outcome, satisfying even the most discerning palates. Understanding the nuances of this recipe is key to mastering this classic dish.
The beef enchiladas casserole recipe stands out for its versatility and ease of preparation. It allows for customization based on individual preferences and dietary needs. The casserole’s layered structure ensures even cooking and prevents dryness, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. This recipe offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, the casserole can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals or those hosting events.
The recipes convenience lies in its one-dish preparation, simplifying cleanup. The casserole’s structure also allows for creative variations, such as incorporating different types of cheese, beans, or vegetables. The recipe provides a satisfying and hearty meal, ideal for family dinners or potlucks. The step-by-step instructions make this recipe accessible to home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients for the Beef Enchiladas Casserole Recipe
- 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 garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions for the Beef Enchiladas Casserole Recipe
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain off excess fat. Add onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until flavors have melded.
- 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 1/4 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 and enchiladas are heated through.
Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for this Beef Enchiladas Casserole Recipe
The beef enchiladas casserole recipe requires approximately 45 minutes of active preparation time, including cooking the beef mixture and assembling the casserole. The baking time is approximately 20-25 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, depending on individual portion sizes. The table below summarizes this information.
| Category | Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Time | 45 minutes | |
| Cook Time | 20-25 minutes | |
| Total Time | 65-70 minutes | 6-8 servings |
Nutritional Information for this Beef Enchiladas Casserole Recipe
This beef enchiladas casserole recipe provides a balanced nutritional profile. The ground beef offers protein, while the beans contribute fiber and additional protein. The vegetables in the Rotel add vitamins and antioxidants. The cheese provides calcium and fat, contributing to the richness of the dish. Its important to note that precise nutritional values will vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise values, inputting your specific ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |
Tips for Cooking or Baking this Beef Enchiladas Casserole Recipe
Mastering this recipe involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Proper preparation of the beef mixture and the assembly of the casserole are crucial for a successful outcome. These tips will enhance the flavor and texture, resulting in a more enjoyable culinary experience.
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Use quality ingredients:
The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the overall taste of the casserole. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
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Don’t overcook the beef:
Overcooked beef can become dry and tough. Ensure the beef is browned but not overcooked before adding the other ingredients.
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Warm the tortillas:
Warming the tortillas slightly before filling them will make them more pliable and less likely to break during rolling.
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Don’t overfill the tortillas:
Overfilling the tortillas can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking.
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Cover the casserole:
Covering the casserole during the first part of the baking time will help to prevent the enchiladas from drying out.
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Let it rest:
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld.
This beef enchiladas casserole recipe is exceptionally versatile. Its adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences. For instance, ground turkey or chicken could replace the beef. Experimentation with different types of cheese adds another layer of customization to this already impressive recipe.
Beyond its adaptability, this recipes inherent simplicity makes it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. The step-by-step instructions guide the user through the process, offering assurance of success. The combination of ease of preparation and delicious results makes this recipe a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Beef Enchiladas Casserole Recipe
Many questions commonly arise regarding the preparation and baking of this casserole. Understanding these answers beforehand can ensure a smooth and successful culinary experience. Clarifying these points enhances the recipe’s accessibility and overall enjoyment.
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time when baking from cold. This saves valuable time for busy schedules.
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Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, cheddar, pepper jack, and even a Mexican blend all work well. The choice is entirely a matter of personal preference.
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What if I don’t have corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas can be substituted, but they may not hold their shape as well as corn tortillas. You might need to adjust the filling quantity to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
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How can I make this spicier?
For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture. Alternatively, using a spicier enchilada sauce will significantly increase the heat.
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Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking and add about 15 minutes to the cooking time.
The versatility and ease of preparation make this beef enchiladas casserole recipe a valuable addition to any home cooks repertoire. This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal option that is both convenient and flavorful.
In conclusion, the detailed instructions and helpful tips provided in this guide will aid in the successful preparation of this dish, resulting in a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. The recipe’s versatility ensures it will remain a favorite for years to come.