Fiesta Beef Enchilada Casserole Bake

Recipe Introduction: Fiesta Beef Enchilada Casserole Bake!

Ever get a craving for enchiladas but dread all that rolling? Honestly, me too! That's why I'm sharing my beef enchilada casserole with red sauce recipe.

It's got all that classic Tex-Mex flavour, but it’s way easier.

This dish is basically a deconstructed enchilada. It delivers all the flavours without the faff. Seriously, this easy casserole recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights.

What’s the Story?

Enchiladas are a staple in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. My version, this Tex-Mex casserole , takes the best bits and simplifies them.

It is an easy recipe, perfect for beginner cooks. Expect a total time of about an hour, with a prep time of 25 minutes and 35 minutes of baking.

This recipe makes enough to feed 6-8 hungry people.

Why You'll Love This

One of the best things about this ground beef casserole is that it’s packed with protein from the beef. Also, it is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to customize.

Main Benefits: It's a Win-Win

Okay, let's get this show on the road and nail down those . It is comfort food casserole at its finest.

Quick, easy, and satisfying, this enchilada bake makes use of a rich, homemade red sauce. This casserole sounds like a real winner! Here are ten designed to help folks find this recipe when they're searching online:

Okay, Let's Gather the Goodies

Time to gather all of the ingredients you’ll need to make the beef enchilada casserole. Let's get this quick enchilada casserole underway, shall we? You’ll need ground beef, onions, garlic, taco seasoning, and tortillas.

For the red sauce, we're using chili powder, cumin, and tomato sauce. Of course, don’t forget the cheese!

Ingredients & Equipment for a Fiesta!

Okay, let's get this show on the road! We're diving into what you need to make this incredible beef enchilada casserole with red sauce.

This is the stuff that dreams are made of seriously, folks! This casserole sounds like a real winner! And remember, we are aiming to use the following in a very natural way: Beef enchilada casserole, Red enchilada sauce, Easy casserole recipe, Tex-Mex casserole, Ground beef casserole, Mexican casserole, Enchilada bake, Quick enchilada casserole, Lazy enchilada recipe, and Comfort food casserole .

Main Players: Beef & Tortillas

• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml).
• Onion: 1 large , chopped (1 cup / 150g).
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g) 80/20 blend. Get good quality stuff. Lean beef will dry out.
• Taco Seasoning: 1 oz (28g) packet. Adjust to your taste, amigo!
• Water: 1/2 cup (120ml).
• Corn Tortillas: 10 (6 inch), quartered. Corn gives it that authentic Tex-Mex flavour.

For the beef, 80/20 blend means good flavour and the right amount of fat. Don't skimp, trust me! The tortilla selection is also something to think about, what will really make or break your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Red dreams.

Knockout Red Enchilada Sauce

• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml).
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp (30g). This is your thickener.
• Chili Powder: 3 tbsp (45ml). Key to that rich flavour!
• Ground Cumin: 1 tsp (5 ml).
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml).
• Onion Powder: 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml).
• Dried Oregano: 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml).
• Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) Optional, for a kick!
• Beef Broth: 2 cups (480ml).
• Tomato Sauce: 15 oz (425g) can.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tbsp (15ml). Adds a lil' tang.

Casserole Assembly & Toppings

• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g), shredded. Or a Mexican blend. Go wild!
• Optional Toppings: Sour cream, cilantro, green onions, tomatoes, jalapeños.

A good chili powder makes ALL the difference, honestly. As does a good quality cheddar, because this dish will be the ultimate comfort food casserole !.

And, hey, don't be shy with those toppings - cilantro and sour cream are musts , in my book.

Tools of the Trade: Keep it Simple

• Large Skillet or Dutch oven. For the beef and sauce.
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish. The stage for our masterpiece!
• Measuring cups and spoons. No eyeballing allowed (mostly)!
• Wooden Spoon or spatula. For stirring and scraping.

Honestly, you don't need fancy equipment for this easy casserole recipe . A basic skillet and a baking dish will do the trick.

If you don't have a wooden spoon, a regular spoon will also do. You know what I mean?. This Mexican casserole is all about that lazy enchilada recipe vibe.

Cooking Method: Building the Ultimate Beef Enchilada Casserole with Red Sauce!

Okay, let's get this show on the road. We are making a beef enchilada casserole with red sauce tonight! This isn't your grandma's casserole, unless your grandma is a Tex-Mex genius.

Let’s dive into the cooking method of our Fiesta Beef Enchilada Casserole Bake . It's easier than you think!

Prep Steps: Your Secret Weapon

Essential mise en place is key. Chop that onion. Mince the garlic. Grate the cheese. Get everything ready to go. Honestly, prepping everything beforehand makes a HUGE difference.

Time saving tip: Buy pre-shredded cheese. Don't tell anyone I told you that. Safety first! Don't burn yourself when browning the beef. We are not trying to create fire hazard.

step-by-step Casserole Magic

1. Brown the ground beef. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Throw in the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned. Drain off the extra grease! This is IMPORTANT!
2. Season the beef. Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes .
3. Craft the sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in the same skillet, and whisk in 2 tablespoons flour. Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds . Gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes , until it thickens. Stir in apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the layers. Preheat oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Spread a thin layer of red enchilada sauce in your 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Layer it all up. Layer one-third of the tortillas, one-third of the ground beef mixture, and one-third of the cheese over the sauce. Repeat the layers two more times. Pour the remaining red enchilada sauce over the top.
6. Bake it 'til it bubbles. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes . Take off the foil and bake for another 15 minutes , until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
7. Cool before serving. Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting. I know, the anticipation is killing you! Garnish with your choice of toppings sour cream, cilantro, green onions, diced tomatoes, the works!

Pro Tips for Casserole Perfection

Don't overcook the beef! Overcooked beef equals tough beef. Use high-quality taco seasoning for maximum flavor. Trust me on this one.

Common mistake: using too much liquid. Drain that grease, people! This enchilada bake sounds like a real winner!. And if you are looking for Easy casserole recipe this is the one for you.

Recipe Notes: Your Enchilada Casserole Cheat Sheet

Alright, let's get this show on the road! Okay, so you're ready to dive into making this awesome beef enchilada casserole with red sauce.

These tips, tricks and serving sugesstions will make it taste even better! This easy casserole recipe will be a hit.

Honestly, these recipe notes are the key to enchilada casserole success.

Plating Perfection and Perfect Pairings

Serving Suggestions:

Presentation matters, right? This Tex-Mex casserole looks amazing when you scoop it onto plates. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and maybe some sliced green onions.

Oh my gosh , it’s like a fiesta on a plate!

For sides, Mexican rice and refried beans are classics for a reason. A crisp salad with a lime vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole, too.

And drinks? Margaritas, anyone? Or a refreshing agua fresca! A glass of lemonade or a cold beer makes an amazing side.

Keeping it Fresh and Fabulous

Storage Tips:

Got leftovers of this ground beef casserole ? Lucky you! Refrigerate it in an airtight container. It’ll keep for about 3-4 days.

Freezing is also an option! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They'll last for up to 2-3 months.

When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through, or microwave it for a quick lunch. Add a bit of cheese on top before reheating for extra gooeyness.

Remix Your Casserole

Variations:

Want to mix it up? Make it vegetarian! Swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils. Add some chopped bell peppers, corn, and zucchini.

It's like a garden party in your enchilada bake .

Need it dairy-free? Use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You know, you can also swap ingredients based on what is in season. Honestly...

Nutrition Knowledge Nuggets

Nutrition Basics:

Each serving of this quick enchilada casserole packs a punch of protein, roughly 30-35g, thanks to the ground beef. You're also looking at 25-30g of fat and 40-50g of carbs.

It's a great source of iron and other essential nutrients. Remember, these are just estimates. Actual values may vary.

Well, there you have it! These extra notes will help you turn this lazy enchilada recipe into a family favourite, this comfort food casserole is bound to be a winner! Happy cooking!