This cheesy Beef Enchilada Casserole is layered with seasoned beef, corn tortillas, and gooey cheese—an easy, crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex comfort food.
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
8–10 corn tortillas, halved
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained (optional)
Chopped cilantro, green onions, or sour cream for garnish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic. Sauté 3–4 minutes.
Stir in enchilada sauce, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes. Stir in beans if using.
Layer the casserole: Spread a bit of meat sauce in the bottom, then a layer of tortillas, then more sauce and cheese. Repeat layers, ending with cheese.
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired.
Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated or frozen before baking.
Swap ground beef with turkey or veggie crumbles for variation.
Use spicy enchilada sauce or pepper jack cheese for more heat.