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Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole with Red Sauce

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into halves or quarters
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
  • Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
  • Step 3: Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Step 4: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Step 5: Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
  • Step 6: Spread a thin layer of red enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Step 7: Add a layer of tortillas, followed by a layer of seasoned beef, beans and corn if using, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese.
  • Step 8: Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
  • Step 9: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  • Step 10: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.