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If you are craving something hearty, flavorful, and utterly comforting, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe is an absolute game changer. It layers juicy, seasoned ground beef with tender rice, black beans, sweet corn, and rich enchilada sauce, all topped with melty Mexican cheese that bubbles to perfection in the oven. Every bite bursts with the classic tastes of a beloved enchilada, but in an easy-to-make casserole form that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your favorite weeknight wins!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this casserole just right requires simple, wholesome ingredients that bring balance and vibrancy to the dish. Each component has a role in crafting the flavors, textures, and colors that make this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe such a delight.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides savory, juicy protein and forms the hearty base of the casserole.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Contributes a soft, fluffy layer that soaks up the enchilada sauce beautifully.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Brings that signature tangy, mildly spicy kick necessary for authentic flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and extra protein while boosting nutrition.
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Offers natural sweetness and a pop of yellow color in each bite.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided: Melts into gooey goodness, creating the perfect cheesy crust and rich layers inside.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Delivers savory warmth with a hint of smoky spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Grounds the dish with earthy, aromatic notes that complement the chili powder.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances all other flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finishing touch.
- Optional toppings (sour cream, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes): These bring coolness, crunch, and extra color to your plate.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This simple preparation ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly to golden perfection.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until the meat is completely browned and the onion has softened nicely. Be sure to drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from getting greasy while still keeping it flavorful.
Step 3: Season and Add Beans and Corn
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to coat the beef evenly with vibrant spices. Then add the drained black beans and thawed corn, cooking for just 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors begin to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble Your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Now for the fun part! Layer the cooked rice in the bottom of your prepared dish. Pour half of the enchilada sauce over the rice to soak in while building flavor. Spread the savory beef mixture over the sauce, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the cheese and finish with the rest of the cheese spread generously on top.
Step 5: Bake to Melty, Golden Perfection
Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow the dish to cook through and the flavors to blend. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes so that the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust that calls everyone to the table.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the casserole with freshly chopped cilantro and offer optional toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes. These fresh additions brighten and balance the rich, cheesy layers beneath, making every bite irresistible.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes such as chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, diced tomatoes, or green onions isn’t just for appearance—they introduce fresh textures and complementary flavors that lighten and enhance the robust layers of the casserole.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe with a crisp green salad, warm refried beans, or a side of guacamole adds freshness and variety to your meal, balancing warm, cheesy richness with cool, vibrant elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch at gatherings. Or scoop it into crispy taco shells for an unexpectedly delightful twist on classic tacos. Either way, the casserole’s comforting layers remain the star of the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe will stay delicious for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or enjoying on busy nights when cooking from scratch isn’t possible.
Freezing
If you want to save the casserole for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To keep the cheese gooey and melty, cover the casserole while reheating and add a splash of water or extra enchilada sauce if it looks dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as leaner alternatives, and you can even try crumbled chorizo for a spicier twist. Just adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swapping the beef for extra beans, vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or using plant-based meat alternatives makes a delicious vegetarian version without losing any heartiness.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble it the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it right before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if coming straight from the fridge.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Long-grain white or brown rice works well, but cooked rice with good texture is the key—it should neither be mushy nor undercooked to hold up nicely in the casserole layers.
Can I make this casserole spicier?
Definitely! Increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture to tailor the dish to your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe, you’ll see why it quickly wins over hearts and taste buds alike. It’s a warm hug of a meal that’s easy to prepare, easy to love, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this casserole brings bold flavors and cozy comfort to the table every time. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!
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Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish perfect for a family dinner. Ground beef is cooked with onions, seasoned with chili powder and cumin, then combined with black beans and corn before layering with rice, enchilada sauce, and melted Mexican blend cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro and optional toppings, this casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
Grains and Legumes
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Season and Add Beans and Corn: Stir the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture for bold flavor. Then add the drained black beans and thawed corn, cooking for 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked rice evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the enchilada sauce over the rice to soak in. Layer the beef mixture on top, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the beef. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the cheese layer, and finish by sprinkling the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and any optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For added spice, you can include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture.
- If preferred, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice to make the casserole healthier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the enchilada sauce does not contain gluten-containing ingredients.
