Best Beef Enchilada Casserole

This beef enchilada casserole brings all the bold Mexican flavors you love into an easy, layered dish that everyone will enjoy. It takes the fuss out of rolling individual enchiladas by simply stacking tortillas with a savory beef mixture, sauce, and cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd without the stress.

This recipe has become a go to in my house when I need something comforting but fast. The first time I made it, my kids asked for seconds before I even got a plate.

Ingredients

• Two pounds of ground beef: provides hearty protein and rich flavor choose 80/20 for juiciness
• Half a white onion diced finely: builds the foundation of the savory base fresh onions work best
• Four ounce can of green chiles: adds mild heat and authentic Southwestern flair
• One ounce package of taco seasoning: brings a perfect blend of spices I recommend any good quality brand or homemade if you have time
• Sixteen ounce can of refried beans: adds creaminess and a smooth texture to the layers look for beans without too many additives
• Flour tortillas: the backbone for layering pick soft, fresh ones that wont crack when cut
• Enchilada sauce: the saucy element that ties everything together homemade or your favorite store bought variety will do
• Mexican blend cheese: melts beautifully and adds the signature cheesy finish fresher grated tastes best

Instructions

Sauté the ground beef and onions:

Add ground beef to a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the beef just starts to brown, then add the diced onions. Stir and cook until onions become translucent and the beef is fully browned. Drain excess grease from the pan to avoid making the casserole oily.

Add green chiles and taco seasoning:

Pour in the green chiles and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine and cook for a few minutes so the flavors meld completely.

Incorporate the refried beans:

Spoon the refried beans into the beef mixture and mix until everything is evenly combined. This layer will add richness and help bind the casserole.

Prepare tortillas:

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the flour tortillas into quarters or smaller pieces if you prefer. This step is optional but helps prevent overlapping and makes layering easier.

Layer the casserole:

Lightly grease a clear glass casserole dish. Pour just enough enchilada sauce on the bottom to cover it evenly. Spread a layer of the beef and bean mixture on top of the sauce. Then add a layer of tortilla pieces to cover. Repeat the layers by pouring a little more sauce, adding more beef mixture, and another tortilla layer, finishing with a generous sprinkle of shredded Mexican blend cheese on top.

Bake to perfection:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover the casserole loosely with foil and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes for a slightly browned cheese topping. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

My favorite ingredient here is the green chiles—they add just the right touch of heat without overpowering. I fondly remember making this casserole for my husband during our early days together, and it quickly became his go to comfort food. Sharing it with friends always brings out smiles.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place a serving on a microwave safe plate and warm for two to three minutes. You can also cover the whole casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil to keep it fresh overnight. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped well in foil and plastic. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option without sacrificing flavor. Use black beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different bean texture or flavor instead of refried beans. Corn tortillas can be substituted to add a more traditional Mexican taste but handle them gently when layering as they are less flexible.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole topped with fresh sour cream, chopped cilantro, and diced bell peppers for added crunch and brightness. A side of Spanish rice or corn salad complements the richness perfectly. For an extra fiesta vibe, add guacamole or sliced black olives on top just before serving.

This enchilada casserole is a simple, satisfying meal that comes together quickly and feeds a crowd. It also freezes well for easy make ahead dinners.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What kind of meat is best for this casserole?

Ground beef works best for rich flavor, but ground turkey is a lighter alternative. Choose lean meat for healthier options.

→ Can I use different beans in this dish?

Yes, you can substitute refried beans with black beans or pinto beans to suit your taste and texture preferences.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

→ What toppings complement this casserole?

Fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, and guacamole add bright, fresh flavors to each serving.

→ Is it necessary to cut the tortillas?

Cutting tortillas into smaller pieces is optional but helps prevent overlapping and creates better layering in the casserole.