Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups corn (frozen or canned); 8 small flour tortillas, cut into strips; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Recipes

Whenever I make Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, I feel like I’m lifting spirits with every layer! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household. The combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef, cheesy goodness, and zesty enchilada sauce creates a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. I love how the colors of the ingredients come together to create an inviting meal that tastes as delightful as it looks.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:53:35.533Z

As I was experimenting with different dinner ideas, I stumbled upon a classic enchilada recipe but decided to give it a twist. By layering the ingredients rather than rolling them up, I discovered not only did it save time, but it also enhanced the dish's flavor infusion! The way the flavors meld together while baking is simply magical.

What I love most is that this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is perfect for leftovers too. It reheats beautifully in the oven, allowing the cheese to bubble up again and the spices to become even more pronounced. Don’t forget to top it off with fresh cilantro before serving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and flavorful ground beef mixed with spices
Cheesy layers that make every bite irresistible
Perfect for both family dinners and gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake lies in the ground beef. Choosing a good quality meat, ideally 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio, ensures a rich flavor while preventing dryness. This mix will render enough fat to keep the dish flavorful and moist. To enhance the dish, consider seasoning the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks, which helps build a flavor foundation right from the start.

The use of black beans not only adds protein but also contributes to the dish's texture and flavor complexity. If you're looking for a twist, you can substitute black beans with pinto beans or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Additionally, the corn layer brings sweetness, balancing the savory elements perfectly. Using fresh corn in season can elevate the flavors significantly.

Layering for Success

Proper layering is crucial in achieving an evenly baked and flavorful casserole. When layering, aim for a generous layer of the beef mixture, followed by enough tortilla strips to cover the layer completely. This technique allows the tortillas to soak up the sauce, ensuring they’re tender yet firm when baked. Using smaller tortillas helps create even layers; just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you use larger ones as they might require longer to cook through.

Consistency is key in cheese application too. Spread an even layer of cheese with a gentle hand. Too much cheese on one layer can lead to a heavy top that might not brown correctly. For variations, try mixing different cheeses; Monterey Jack or pepper jack introduces an exciting kick and creaminess. A sprinkle of cheese on top before the final 10 minutes of baking can enhance the browning effect, giving a delightful crunch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups corn (frozen or canned)
8 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add Flavor

Stir in the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.

Layer the Ingredients

In a greased baking dish, start layering by placing some of the beef mixture at the bottom, followed by tortilla strips, and then a layer of cheese. Repeat this until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Enchilada Bake!

Pro Tips

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños to the beef mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before you pop it in the oven to ensure even baking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. To maintain the crispy edges of the baked dish, consider reheating it in the oven instead of the microwave.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to customize your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake with seasonal veggies or spices that excite your palate. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can be added to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. You could also swap out the ground beef entirely for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. This change works particularly well if you’re aiming for a leaner meal without sacrificing taste.

For a dairy-free version, simply use a non-dairy cheese and ensure that your enchilada sauce is dairy-free. Additionally, corn tortillas can be used to make this dish gluten-free. Just be aware that corn tortillas might require slight adjustments in layering and baking time due to their different texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works well in this recipe.

→ What can I substitute for tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas or even low-carb tortillas if you're looking for a healthier option.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchilada bake a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.