Enchilada casserole is like a cozy hug on a plate, combining the bold flavors of traditional enchiladas into a simple, satisfying bake. This recipe offers a delicious twist with layered tortillas, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or potlucks.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly later on. While the oven heats up, grab a skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion turns soft and fragrant. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Next, stir in the spices: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let these mingle with the beef for about 2 minutes, releasing their flavors. Stir in the black beans, making sure they're evenly distributed in the mixture.
Now, let's layer. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds flavor to the base. Lay down 4 corn tortillas, slightly overlapping them if needed. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1 cup each of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Drizzle 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over this cheesy layer. Repeat the layering with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheeses, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. Scatter the sliced black olives over the top layer.
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven, uncovered, and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's bubbly and the cheese is melted with a slight golden hue. Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve your enchilada casserole with a side of Spanish rice or a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice on top can also add a refreshing touch.
Ground beef provides a hearty base, absorbing spices beautifully. Onion adds a sweet, aromatic depth when sautéed with the beef. Red enchilada sauce ties everything together with its rich, tangy flavor. The combination of shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese gives a creamy, melty finish. Corn tortillas hold the layers together while adding a slightly nutty flavor. Black beans offer extra texture and protein. Black olives add a salty contrast to the richness of the cheese. The seasoning blend of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhances the overall flavor without being overpowering. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens up each serving with a fresh, herbal note.
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