Description
This beef enchilada casserole is the ultimate easy dinner idea when you’re craving something cheesy, saucy, and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it layers seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, melty cheese, and corn tortillas all in one dish. This comforting meal is make-ahead friendly, freezer-friendly, and kid-approved—great for family meals or gatherings. It’s a no-roll twist on classic enchiladas and one of my favorite food ideas when I need a reliable and crowd-pleasing option. Ideal for anyone searching for quick casserole recipes, dinner ideas, or hearty meal prep solutions.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 pound ground beef (80/20)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
2 cups enchilada sauce
12 corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Add half of the enchilada sauce and warm through.
5. Start layering: Place a layer of tortillas in the baking dish. Add beef mixture, dollops of refried beans, a spoonful of sauce, and sprinkle of both cheeses.
6. Repeat the layers two more times.
7. Top with a final layer of tortillas, remaining sauce, and cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Letting it rest before slicing helps the layers set and hold their shape.
You can assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready.
Use a combo of cheddar and Monterey Jack for best melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: easy dinner, beef enchiladas, casserole, Mexican casserole, family dinner, freezer meal, meal prep