Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

If you love the flavors of enchiladas but want an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t require rolling individual tortillas, then this Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is for you. It combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, cheese, tortillas, and enchilada sauce into one delightful layered dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. This casserole has all the elements of traditional enchiladas but is assembled lasagna-style, making it simple to prepare and serve.

What is Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole?

A Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is a deconstructed version of classic enchiladas, where layers of tortillas are stacked with a flavorful beef and black bean mixture, enchilada sauce, and cheese. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, making it a comforting meal for the entire family. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization, so you can adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a perfect choice!

Ingredients List for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

This recipe serves about 6-8 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (or green, depending on your preference)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning blend)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 12 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas, depending on preference)
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar cheese)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce (optional, for a saucier casserole)
• Sour cream (for serving)
• Sliced avocado or guacamole (optional, for serving)

These ingredients create a layered, flavorful dish that’s both filling and comforting.

Ingredients List for a Homemade Twist

For a more homemade approach, you can make your own enchilada sauce and seasonings. Here’s a variation with fresh ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 12 corn tortillas (lightly toasted or warmed)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup homemade enchilada sauce (see below)
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for sauce)
• 1 teaspoon flour (for sauce thickening)

Homemade enchilada sauce can be made by cooking together tomato paste, broth, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and flour until thickened. It adds an extra layer of rich flavor to the casserole.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is easily customizable to suit your dietary preferences and taste. Here are a few variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and double the black beans or add other beans like pinto beans or kidney beans. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Chicken Option: Substitute ground beef with shredded or ground chicken. You could also use cooked rotisserie chicken for an even easier version.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use spicy enchilada sauce for a kick of heat. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that your tortillas, enchilada sauce, and seasoning mix are certified gluten-free. Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to adapt.
• Low-Carb Version: Use low-carb tortillas or even thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as a tortilla substitute for a low-carb enchilada casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making this delicious Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick spray or a thin layer of olive oil.

2. Cook the beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Season the beef

Once the beef is cooked, add the garlic powder, cumin, taco seasoning, and any other desired spices. Stir well to coat the beef in the seasonings. If you want to add a little heat, stir in the diced green chiles. Add the black beans and mix to combine everything evenly.

4. Prepare the enchilada sauce

In a small saucepan, warm the enchilada sauce (and tomato sauce if using) over low heat. You can also add a little water or broth if you prefer a thinner sauce. If using homemade enchilada sauce, follow the directions in the homemade twist section.

5. Assemble the casserole

Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the tortillas from sticking. Layer 4 tortillas over the sauce (you may need to tear them to fit). Spoon half of the beef and black bean mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of enchilada sauce and ⅓ of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with 4 more tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, sauce, and cheese.

6. Top the casserole

For the final layer, place the last 4 tortillas on top, followed by the remaining enchilada sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.

7. Bake the casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas are golden brown.

8. Let it cool and serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, and sliced avocado or guacamole if desired.

How to Cook Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the beef: Sauté the ground beef with onions and spices to build the foundation of flavor.
2. Assemble the layers: Layer tortillas, beef, black beans, cheese, and enchilada sauce for a casserole that's bursting with flavor.
3. Bake to bubbly perfection: Bake the casserole until it's golden and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
4. Top and serve: Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the tortillas: Make sure to cover the casserole with foil during the first part of baking to prevent the tortillas from becoming too crispy or burnt.
• Not enough sauce: Be generous with the enchilada sauce to keep the casserole moist. Dry layers can make the casserole less appealing.
• Skimping on cheese: Cheese is an essential part of this dish’s indulgence, so don’t hold back when adding layers of cheesy goodness!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Make this Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole stand out by serving it with the right sides and garnishes:

• Toppings: Serve with a dollop of sour cream, fresh guacamole, or sliced avocado for extra richness. Fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes add color and freshness.
• Sides: Pair with a simple Mexican-inspired salad, rice, or refried beans to round out the meal.
• Garnish creatively: A drizzle of crema or hot sauce over each slice can elevate the presentation, while lime wedges on the side add brightness.

How to Serve Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

This casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven. It pairs perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp Mexican coleslaw. For a complete meal, serve it with chips and salsa or guacamole. Don’t forget to add sour cream, cilantro, and avocado as optional toppings for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

• Rustic look: Serve the casserole directly in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Individual servings: If you're hosting a dinner party, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions.
• Fresh garnishes: Sprinkle fresh cilantro and sliced green onions over the top to add color and flavor.

Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
• Freeze it: This casserole freezes well. Prepare it up to the baking step, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Layer cheese wisely: Ensure each layer has a good amount of cheese, especially the top layer, which should be golden and bubbly when baked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Yes! You can use either flour or corn tortillas in this recipe, depending on your preference. Flour tortillas tend to be softer, while corn tortillas give a more traditional enchilada flavor.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just cover it tightly and add a few minutes to the baking time if needed.

Q: Can I freeze Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Assemble the casserole without baking it, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

Conclusion

This Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of enchiladas without all the fuss of rolling individual tortillas. It’s a perfect choice for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. The layers of seasoned beef, black beans, tortillas, and cheese are bound together by a flavorful enchilada sauce, making every bite satisfying and comforting. With so many variations and customization options, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation!

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