This 5-Ingredient Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole is a flavor-packed, fuss-free dinner that’s ready in just 40 minutes. Layers of tender ground beef, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce come together with soft tortillas for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. The rich, smoky flavors and satisfying textures make it feel like a labor of love, but with minimal effort.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole delivers a hearty balance of protein, fiber, and bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Each bite is a delicious mix of savory beef, melty cheese, and a hint of spice, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a meal that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent—ideal for sharing or savoring solo.
Simple Ingredients for a Flavorful Casserole
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
- 15 ounces enchilada sauce (1 can, mild or spicy based on preference)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free alternative)
- 8 corn tortillas (6-inch size; flour tortillas can be used as a substitute)
- 15 ounces black beans (rinsed and drained; pinto beans work too)
- ½ cup chopped tomatoes (optional topping, fresh or canned)
- ½ avocado, chopped (optional topping, adds creaminess)
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×11-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook for 6-9 minutes, breaking it into small pieces, until no longer pink and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, half of the enchilada sauce, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Layer the tortillas: Place 4 corn tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, tearing them as needed to cover the surface evenly.
- Add the first layer: Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by half of the black beans. Drizzle with ¼ cup of enchilada sauce.
- Repeat the layers: Add another layer of 4 tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, beans, and another ¼ cup of enchilada sauce.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan with foil.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Add optional toppings: If desired, garnish with chopped tomatoes and avocado before serving.
Spice It Up: Sauce and Topping Ideas
While this recipe uses a classic enchilada sauce, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Try a spicy chipotle sauce for a smoky kick or a green tomatillo sauce for a tangy twist. For toppings, consider adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra brightness. If you love heat, diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce are perfect additions!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it with a fresh green salad or a side of cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal. For a lighter option, try a side of steamed veggies or a quick corn and black bean salsa. Don’t forget to add a basket of warm tortilla chips and guacamole for a fun, shareable touch!
Make It Ahead: Storage and Reheating Tips
This casserole is a great make-ahead dish! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake the entire dish at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you’re freezing it, wrap the casserole tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
This recipe is super versatile! Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian? Skip the meat and double up on the beans or add sautéed veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try a sharp cheddar or a pepper jack for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Quick Tips for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Use pre-cooked ground beef or a rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep. If you’re in a rush, skip the layering and mix everything together in a bowl before transferring it to the baking dish. For an even faster cleanup, line your baking pan with parchment paper before assembling. These small tweaks can save you precious minutes without sacrificing flavor!
5 Ingredient Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 15 ounces enchilada sauce 1 can
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 8 corn tortillas 6 inch
- 15 ounces black beans rinsed and drained
- ½ cup tomatoes chopped, optional topping
- ½ avocado chopped, optional topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9×11″ baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook until meat is no longer pink and fully cooked (about 6-9 minutes).
- In a large bowl, toss together cooked ground beef, half of the enchilada sauce, and half of the cheese.
- Place 4 of the tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ripping them if necessary to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Top the tortillas with half of the beef mixture, half of the beans and drizzle with 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce.
- Repeat all layers one more time.
- Top with remaining shredded cheese and cover pan with foil. Bake for 30 minutes or until casserole is cooked through.
- If desired, top with tomatoes and avocado.