Homemade Beef Enchilada Casserole (Print version)

Layered ground beef, corn tortillas, and melted cheese baked in red enchilada sauce for a hearty family dinner.

# Ingredients:

For the filling

01 - 1 1/2 lb (680 g) lean ground beef
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can red enchilada sauce
11 - 1 (14.5 oz / 410 g) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
12 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
13 - 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, rinsed and drained
14 - 1 cup (150 g) frozen corn kernels
15 - Salt and black pepper

For the layers

16 - 12 corn tortillas
17 - 2 cups (200 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
18 - 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

# Instructions:

01 - Briefly char the corn tortillas over an open flame or in a dry skillet until spotted with dark marks. Set aside.
02 - Cook the ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking up the meat, until the beef is nearly cooked through. Drain excess fat.
03 - Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
04 - Stir in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
05 - Stir in the black beans and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
06 - Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with 4 tortillas, overlapping to cover. Add one-third of the remaining sauce and one-third of the combined cheeses. Repeat the layers twice more, ending with cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 15-20 minutes more, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
07 - Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with desired toppings.

# Good to know:

01 - Let the casserole rest before cutting for cleaner squares.
02 - Check corn tortilla and enchilada sauce labels if you need a strictly gluten-free dish.