Black Bean And Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious and hearty meal to impress your family or guests, you've come to the right place. Our Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe offers a mouthwatering fusion of savory beef, wholesome black beans, and tangy enchilada sauce, all layered with gooey cheese and soft tortillas. This dish is perfect for dinner parties, meal prep, or weeknight dinners. Get ready to experience a burst of Mexican-inspired flavors in every bite! Read on for the full recipe, tips, and variations to make this dish uniquely yours. Let’s get started!

What is a Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole?

The Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is a delicious Tex-Mex-inspired dish that combines the traditional flavors of enchiladas into a comforting casserole. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, the ingredients are layered like a lasagna, making this meal quick and easy to prepare. This casserole is made with seasoned ground beef, protein-packed black beans, layers of soft tortillas, rich enchilada sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. The best part? You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste by adding veggies, spices, or using different types of cheese.

Ingredients List for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

Here’s a list of all the essential ingredients you’ll need to create this incredible Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole:

1. 1 pound ground beef – Lean ground beef works best for a healthier version.
2. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – Provides a great source of protein and fiber.
3. 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce – You can use red or green enchilada sauce, depending on your flavor preference.
4. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – Adds a bit of spice and acidity to balance the rich flavors.
5. 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds depth and sweetness to the beef mixture.
6. 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor with a subtle kick.
7. 1 tablespoon chili powder – Brings warmth and heat to the casserole.
8. 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds an earthy, smoky flavor that complements the chili powder.
9. ½ teaspoon paprika – Provides an extra layer of warmth and mild sweetness.
10. Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors.
11. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that irresistible, melty cheese layer.
12. 10-12 corn tortillas – These create the layers of the casserole and give it that traditional enchilada feel.
13. 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the onions, garlic, and beef.
14. Fresh cilantro – Optional, for garnish, adding a fresh and herby finish.

Ingredients List for Additional Flavor

Want to take your Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole up a notch? Here are a few optional ingredients that you can add to enhance the flavor and texture:

1. ½ cup sour cream – A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the heat.
2. ½ cup sliced black olives – Provides a briny flavor contrast.
3. 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional) – For an extra spicy kick.
4. ½ cup frozen corn – Adds sweetness and a bit of texture.
5. ½ cup bell peppers, diced – For added crunch and color.
6. ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – If you love extra heat, a pinch will bring more intensity.
7. 1 lime, cut into wedges – Squeeze over the casserole for a zesty finish before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is its versatility. You can modify the recipe based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand:

1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and double the black beans or add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
2. Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken for a leaner option. Rotisserie chicken works great for this.
3. Vegan Version: Use plant-based meat substitutes or crumbled tofu, swap the cheese with vegan cheese, and make sure to choose a vegan enchilada sauce.
4. Low-Carb: Instead of tortillas, you can use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as layers.
5. Gluten-Free: Ensure the tortillas and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free, and you’ve got a safe dish for those avoiding gluten.
6. Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap cheddar for a Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added spice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and ideas for variations, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making this delectable Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and drained black beans. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Layer the casserole: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Layer 3-4 tortillas to cover the bottom. Add a layer of the beef and bean mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers (tortillas, beef mixture, cheese) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tortillas topped with the remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced jalapeños if desired.

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

1. Prepare all ingredients: Drain and rinse the black beans, chop the onions and garlic, and gather your seasonings.
2. Brown the beef: Cook the beef mixture until it is well-seasoned and thoroughly cooked.
3. Layer the ingredients: Alternate layers of tortillas, beef, beans, sauce, and cheese.
4. Bake to perfection: The casserole should be golden and bubbling when done, signaling it’s ready to enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the beef: This can dry out the beef and make it less flavorful. Aim for just browned beef.
2. Skipping the draining: Failing to drain the beans or the beef fat will result in a watery casserole.
3. Using too much sauce: While sauce is delicious, too much can make the casserole soggy.
4. Forgetting to cover the casserole: Covering it while baking ensures that the cheese doesn’t burn before everything is heated through.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To really elevate the experience of your Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole, it’s all in the details. Here’s how to serve and present this tasty dish.

How to Serve Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

This dish pairs perfectly with classic Mexican sides such as:

1. Mexican rice – A flavorful rice dish to soak up all the extra sauce.
2. Refried beans – A traditional side that complements the casserole’s textures.
3. Guacamole and chips – For an added creaminess and crunch.

Presentation Ideas for Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole

1. Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of queso fresco gives a fresh and vibrant appearance.
2. Add colorful sides: Serve with lime wedges, pico de gallo, or a colorful salad on the side to make your plate pop.
3. Layer beautifully: Cut into neat squares to showcase the layers of tortillas, beef, and beans.

Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
2. Freezer-friendly: This casserole freezes well. Simply wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat leftovers: Reheat in the oven for the best results. The microwave works too, but the tortillas may lose their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas? Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.
2. How long does this casserole keep? It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Wrap leftovers in foil or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make this casserole spicy? Yes! Add diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder or cayenne pepper to your taste.

Conclusion

The Black Bean and Beef Enchilada Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone craving comforting, Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal fuss. It’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to make it your own!

Print