Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting family meal. Featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, rice, and melted Mexican blend cheese, all baked in a zesty enchilada sauce, this casserole offers a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
Staples & Sauces
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese & Garnishes
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef together with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onion becomes soft. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being too oily.
- Season and Add Veggies: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to season the meat. Add the drained black beans and thawed corn to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the enchilada sauce over the rice. Layer the beef mixture over the sauce, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the cheese layer, then finish by sprinkling the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil carefully and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish the casserole with fresh chopped cilantro and your choice of optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- Use brown rice to add more fiber and nutrients.
- To make it spicier, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
