Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole (Easy & Cheesy)

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Enchiladas are always a fan favorite, and this Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole will be your new go-to for weeknights! Layers of seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and all the classic enchilada staples with a little jalapeño heat make every bite so delicious. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or making ahead for a busy night, basically everything you want in a really good dinner!

Enchilada casserole in glass casserole dish on white background with orange napkin and ingredients scattered around.

Being half Hispanic, I’ve always LOVED authentic Mexican flavors, but I also can’t resist a little American comfort thrown in. This casserole is the perfect mix of both, and it is definitely a favorite here in my house!

One of the best things, in my opinion (and I bet you can relate), is anything smothered in sauce. This casserole is gooey, cheesy, and loaded with it in every bite. It’s become one of the staples in my go-to comfort dinner rotation. Minimal prep with those juicy layers… what’s not to love?

You’ll find making it on a weeknight is the easiest way to get a big, delicious dinner on the table without any stress at all! Speaking of weeknight dinners, have you tried my One Pan Maple Dijon Salmon with Veggies? It’s so yummy and comes together just as easily!

Ingredients you will need

Just a handful of simple ingredients make this recipe so easy and delicious! You’ll find the full ingredient list and exact amounts in the recipe card below.

Ingredients for beef enchilada casserole in seperate small bowls.

Ground beef – This is the gold of the whole casserole. I usually go with lean ground beef so it’s not greasy, but use what you have.
Taco seasoning & water – This is what gives the beef that classic enchilada flavor without making it complicated. If you have a minute, try my 3-Ingredient Taco Seasoning. It’s so simple!
Black beans – I love adding these to make it more filling.
Corn – A little sweetness in every bite (and honestly, my husband’s favorite part).
Diced jalapeños – Adds just enough kick.
Diced tomatoes – They add moisture and help bring all the flavors together.
Red enchilada sauce – This is what makes it saucy. I use my Easy Red Enchilada Sauce because it’s so good and I know exactly what’s in it!
Corn tortillas – These create those perfect layers and soak up all that flavor. I think this might actually be my favorite part. I love using my own Homemade Corn Tortillas!
Cheddar & pepper jack cheese – It melts into that golden, bubbly top perfectly. I always use freshly shredded cheese because it melts so much better. This stainless steel grater is my go-to for it every time!

Tools you Will Needed

Just the basics here! Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.

Large Skillet – For browning the beef and mixing in all the fillings.
Mixing Spoon or Spatula – To stir everything together without making a mess. I always use these wooden spoons, but a silicone one works just as well.
9×13 Casserole Dish – This is where the magic happens! Layers, sauce, cheese… it all bakes in here. I love using a glass baking dish so you can see all those juicy layers while it cooks.

Serving of beef enchilada casserole on a white plate with cilantro sprinkled around it.

How to make the best Casserole

Looking for a gooey, cheesy dinner that’s on the table in under an hour? Here’s how to make it!

Brown That Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet, then stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. The smell alone is enough to get your mouth watering!
Add All the Good Stuff
Toss in the beans, corn, tomatoes, jalapeños, and most of the sauce, and let it sit on the heat for a few minutes so everything mixes perfectly.
Layer It Up
Spread a little sauce on the bottom of your casserole dish, then add the tortillas, half the beef mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat the layers with the rest of the tortillas, filling, and cheese. Into the oven it goes until the cheese is all melted and bubbly (golden perfection)!
Top and Dig In
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle on your favorite toppings like lime, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro. Grab a fork and enjoy every bite!

FAQs and Tips

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yep! You can prep the beef mixture and layer the casserole a day ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge, then bake when you’re ready. The tortillas might soak up a bit of sauce overnight, but it just makes it extra yummy!

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes! I usually make it with ground beef, but shredded rotisserie chicken works great too. I would just skip the taco seasoning and use a bit of chili powder and cumin to flavor it.

How spicy is it?

It’s mostly mild with just a little kick from the jalapeños. If you’re not a fan of heat, you can leave some or all of the jalapeños out.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly or pop it in an airtight container. It keeps in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake until hot and bubbly. Still cheesy and delicious!

variations

Make it Vegetarian

Skip the beef and add extra beans, corn, or sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. I still season everything with the taco seasoning. With the cheese and enchilada sauce, it’s just as delicious as the original!

Tortilla Swap

Go with flour tortillas instead of corn if that’s what you have on hand for a softer, chewier casserole, or sprinkle some crispy tortilla strips on top for a little extra crunch.

Make it Ahead

You can prep the beef mixture and layer the casserole the day before you plan to eat it. Keep it covered in the fridge, then bake when you’re ready. Bonus: the flavors get even better because the tortillas soak up a bit more sauce!

related Recipes

If you’re loving this cheesy, easy beef enchilada casserole, you’re going to want to try a few more of my favorites:

These Sheet Pan Veggie Fajitas are packed with roasted veggies and so easy to make. I love whipping them up on a weeknight when I want something quick. They’re great on their own or alongside tacos!
If you’re a jalapeño lover, my Bacon Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is for you! Creamy, cheesy, and has just the right kick. I eat it for lunch, summer snacking, or making my friends’ mouths water.
This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is my go-to for any enchilada recipe, including this one! It’s simple, ready in just a few minutes, and makes this Beef Enchilada Casserole even better.