There’s nothing quite like a hearty casserole to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a symphony of flavors that blends the robust spices of Mexican cuisine with the comforting textures of a homemade baked dish. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight meal or preparing it for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
A Recipe with a Story
Growing up, casseroles were the ultimate comfort food in our house. The process of layering ingredients, sprinkling cheese, and waiting for the oven to work its magic was a ritual that brought us together. This enchilada casserole holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners where everyone eagerly gathered around the table, savoring every bite and sharing stories of their day.
Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican-American cuisine, this dish is a testament to the versatility of enchiladas. By transforming them into a casserole, you get all the classic elements—zesty sauce, seasoned meat, hearty beans, and gooey cheese—in a simpler, more crowd-friendly form.
Whether it’s the creamy cheese melting over the spicy beef and rice or the enticing aroma of cumin and garlic wafting through your kitchen, this casserole is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory flavors of this dish. It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
- Effortless Comfort Food: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it delivers maximum flavor without hours in the kitchen.
- Meal Prep Perfection: Make it ahead and reheat when you’re ready. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, add your favorite veggies, or swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this cheesy, beefy masterpiece:
- 1½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (28 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. The kitchen will fill with the comforting aroma of sizzling beef and onions—a sign that something delicious is underway.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing its rich, fragrant flavor to infuse the beef mixture. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole light yet flavorful.
2. Mix the Core Ingredients
To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Stir everything together until well combined. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and sauce create a visual feast, giving you a glimpse of the flavorful dish to come.
Season the mixture with Slap Ya Mama seasoning, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
3. Simmer the Mixture
Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the enchilada sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the ingredients meld together beautifully.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This step is all about creating a perfect base for the star ingredient—cheese.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top. As it bakes, the cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden layer that adds richness to the casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. The aroma of the cheesy, spicy casserole will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eager for a taste.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, top the casserole with freshly chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. These garnishes add a fresh, vibrant touch that perfectly balances the dish’s rich flavors. Serve hot, and watch as your family digs into this comforting, satisfying meal.
Helpful Tips
- Cook the Rice Ahead: Using pre-cooked rice saves time and ensures the casserole comes together quickly.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Browning the beef just until it’s no longer pink keeps it tender and juicy.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the chili powder and red pepper flakes to suit your family’s taste.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Notes
- This casserole is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or lentils for a vegetarian version.
What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend would also work beautifully.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the mixture.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Beef Enchilada Casserole, try these other comforting dishes:
Conclusion
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice isn’t just a recipe—it’s an invitation to gather, share, and savor the moments that truly matter. With its bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family tradition. So grab your apron, turn on some music, and let this casserole bring a little extra joy to your table tonight!
Print
Hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice
Description
There’s nothing quite like a hearty casserole to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a symphony of flavors that blends the robust spices of Mexican cuisine with the comforting textures of a homemade baked dish. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight meal or preparing it for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (28 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. The kitchen will fill with the comforting aroma of sizzling beef and onions—a sign that something delicious is underway.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing its rich, fragrant flavor to infuse the beef mixture. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole light yet flavorful.
2. Mix the Core Ingredients
To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Stir everything together until well combined. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and sauce create a visual feast, giving you a glimpse of the flavorful dish to come.
Season the mixture with Slap Ya Mama seasoning, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
3. Simmer the Mixture
Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the enchilada sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the ingredients meld together beautifully.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This step is all about creating a perfect base for the star ingredient—cheese.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top. As it bakes, the cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden layer that adds richness to the casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. The aroma of the cheesy, spicy casserole will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eager for a taste.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, top the casserole with freshly chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. These garnishes add a fresh, vibrant touch that perfectly balances the dish’s rich flavors. Serve hot, and watch as your family digs into this comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- This casserole is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.
