Easy Beef Enchilada Layers

This easy beef enchilada casserole brings all the cozy flavors of a Tex Mex favorite into a simple layered bake that your whole family will love. Ground beef seasoned with taco mix cooks up alongside onions and green chilies then gets layered with pinto beans, melty cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses between soft flour tortillas. It bakes until bubbling and golden and is perfect topped with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes for a fresh finish. It’s great for busy nights when you want comfort food without fuss.

I first made this casserole for my family game night, and it quickly became a beloved tradition that everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients

• Large flour tortillas: These are the sturdy base that hold everything together Choose soft fresh tortillas that bend without cracking for the best texture
• Ground beef: Picking leaner beef keeps it from getting greasy and gives you robust flavor Look for high quality for better taste and texture
• Onion: Diced yellow onions add sweetness and moisture that balances the spices Their savory aroma builds the flavor foundation
• Taco seasoning: This all in one mix brings authentic Tex Mex flavor You can use your favorite brand or a homemade blend with chili powder cumin and garlic for more depth
• Cheddar cheese: Freshly grated cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharpness Avoid pre—shredded which often has additives that affect melt
• Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild this cheese pairs perfectly with sharper cheddar Shred it from the block so it combines smoothly
• Diced green chilies: Adds a mild kick and enhances the classic Tex Mex notes Choose mild or medium depending on your heat preference
• Pinto beans: Rinsed and drained to add protein and hearty texture Look for beans with skins intact to avoid mushiness
• Enchilada sauce: This coats every layer with rich flavor and moisture Use a smooth sauce with deep red color for the best results
• Optional toppings: Fresh shredded lettuce diced tomatoes diced red onions and sour cream add bright crunch and creaminess that freshen each bite

Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit this ensures even baking from start to finish and a perfectly melted cheese top

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

In a large skillet over medium—high heat cook the ground beef with diced onions until the beef is fully browned Break up the meat into small pieces to create an even layer inside the casserole Drain off any excess fat so your dish isn’t greasy

Season the Meat:

Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the beef and onion mixture Stir well making sure every bit is coated This step infuses the rich Tex Mex flavor into the base

Add Chilies and Sauce:

Mix in the diced green chilies and about one quarter cup of enchilada sauce Let it simmer gently for five minutes to meld the flavors and thicken the mixture slightly

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Pour half a cup of enchilada sauce evenly in the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch baking dish This stops the tortillas from sticking and starts layering flavor from the bottom

Build the First Layer:

Arrange tortillas to cover the bottom of the dish completely Trim and overlap as needed to avoid gaps and even out edges so the casserole layers hold together well

Layer Beef and Beans:

Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas Then scatter half of the rinsed pinto beans across the beef making sure every corner has some beans for texture and heartiness

Add Cheese and Sauce:

Sprinkle half a cup each of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beef and bean layer Drizzle another quarter cup of enchilada sauce across this layer for moisture and flavor

Repeat Layers:

Add another layer of tortillas then repeat spreading the rest of the beef and beans followed by the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses Drizzle the final quarter cup of enchilada sauce across the top

Top and Bake:

Finish with a third layer of tortillas and top with the remaining cheese Pour a last quarter cup of sauce on top Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling

Finish and Serve:

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking so it sets up for clean slices Add any optional toppings like shredded lettuce diced tomatoes and red onions or a dollop of sour cream Serve warm and enjoy the comforting layers

Cheese is my favorite part of this recipe My grandmother always added extra cheese on top so every slice had a golden bubbly crust I still do this in her honor and somehow it makes each serving feel more special with no leftovers ever

Storage Tips

Cool the casserole completely before storing in the fridge It will keep well for up to three days When reheating, use the oven for best texture or microwave for convenience To freeze, wrap slices tightly in foil and freeze up to two months Thaw in the fridge before warming

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken work well if you want a lighter option Black beans can replace pinto beans for a different flavor and color mix For extra spice use pepper jack cheese or add sliced jalapenos between layers

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or tangy pickled onions for brightness I often serve it with tortilla chips and fresh guacamole to add crunch and freshness The hearty bake is filling enough to stand as a complete main dish

This enchilada casserole is comforting and easy to assemble, making it perfect for weeknights and gatherings. Top each slice with fresh toppings for a bright contrast.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives work well when seasoned, offering flavorful variations.

→ Should I use corn or flour tortillas?

Large flour tortillas provide a tender, cohesive texture ideal for layering, while corn tortillas add a rustic flavor.

→ What cheese blend is best for this casserole?

A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a rich, melty topping with balanced sharpness and creaminess.

→ How can I make this less spicy?

Reduce green chilies or choose mild enchilada sauce. Avoid adding spicy toppings to mellow the heat.

→ What are some suggested toppings?

Fresh shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and sour cream add freshness and creamy texture to each serving.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers in advance, keep refrigerated covered, and bake just before serving for convenience.