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Cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Easy 5-Step Comfort Classic

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A quick and easy cheesy beef enchilada casserole that layers seasoned ground beef, soft tortillas, and melted cheese for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal ready in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for flavor and juiciness)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas (soft, room temperature)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese blend (sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Pickled jalapeños or sliced black olives (optional toppings)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, prepare the beef mixture.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook 5-7 minutes until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook another 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Pour half the sauce over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
  5. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 2 tortillas at the bottom overlapping slightly, spread half the beef mixture over tortillas, sprinkle one-third of shredded cheese. Repeat layering with tortillas, beef, and cheese. Top with last 2 tortillas, pour remaining sauce evenly over top, and finish with remaining cheese.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden around edges.
  7. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra crisp on top, broil for last 2-3 minutes watching closely. Use room temperature tortillas to prevent cracking. Drain excess grease after cooking beef to avoid greasiness. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before slicing for better texture. Can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated. Freeze unbaked casserole wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; bake from frozen adding 15 minutes and cover with foil initially.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy beef enchilada casserole, easy casserole recipe, comfort food, ground beef casserole, enchilada casserole, quick dinner, family meal

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