If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting layers, the Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines savory ground beef, vibrant enchilada sauce, hearty rice, and melty cheese into one irresistible casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests, offering that perfect mix of spicy, cheesy, and wholesome goodness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this delicious Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the ground beef providing savory richness to the enchilada sauce lending a vibrant, tangy punch. The rice adds bulk and texture, while beans and corn offer a satisfying heartiness and a pop of color, making this dish as pretty as it is tasty.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean or regular beef based on your preference for richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Use freshly cooked or leftover rice for convenience.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: The key to that authentic enchilada flavor and moisture.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and a creamy texture.
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Offers sweetness and crunch in every bite.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for optimal melt and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings warm, smoky heat that ties the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness and depth to the spice profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for balance and enhancing flavor.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
- Optional toppings (sour cream, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes): Personalize your casserole with these cool, crunchy, or creamy extras.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting the stage for delicious layers to come.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened to bring out their natural sweetness. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Season and Add Veggies
Next, stir in the chili powder and cumin along with salt and pepper to taste. Adding the black beans and thawed corn creates a hearty filling that cooks through just a few minutes longer, marrying all those flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Layer Your Casserole
Create a base by spreading the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Pour half of the enchilada sauce over the rice to add moisture and tang. Then add the beef and veggie mixture on top. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese, cover with the remaining enchilada sauce, and finish with the last cup of cheese for that irresistible melty top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with foil to keep everything moist and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbling. This final step ensures a beautiful golden crust and all those layers meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of freshness. Feel free to add sour cream, green onions, or diced tomatoes for even more texture and flavor. Serve the casserole warm and get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe is how easily it elevates with simple garnishes. Fresh cilantro adds a hint of brightness, while a dollop of sour cream tempers the spice with creaminess. Slices of green onions provide a mild crunch, and diced tomatoes bring juicy freshness and a pop of color. These toppings make every spoonful feel special.
Side Dishes
Pair your casserole with light, complementary sides to balance the meal. A crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette or some sliced avocado can add refreshing contrast. For something warm, try serving with a side of Mexican street corn or a simple bowl of tortilla chips to scoop up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make your Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe even more fun? Try serving it in individual ramekins for a personal touch, perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, layer the casserole in a clear glass dish so everyone can admire those beautiful layers before digging in. For a casual night, plate it family-style and let everyone add their favorite toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal since it stores beautifully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for even tastier seconds or thirds!
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead for a busy week, this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the assembled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover your portion with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through and cheese is bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave single servings with a cover to prevent drying out, stirring halfway for even heat.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef with extra beans, vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or a meat substitute for an equally satisfying vegetarian version.
What type of rice works best?
Long grain white rice is ideal, but you can use brown rice for extra fiber or even Spanish rice for added flavor – just cook it ahead so it’s ready for layering.
Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?
Yes! Homemade enchilada sauce adds a fresh, personalized touch. Feel free to adjust spice levels and ingredients like garlic and chili powder to suit your tastes.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely, just double-check that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free and choose gluten-free seasonings. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free of gluten.
How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?
Make sure to drain excess grease from your beef and use cooked, dry rice. Baking uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes helps evaporate extra moisture and crisp the top.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the hearty, cheesy layers of this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe that makes it an instant favorite in any home. It’s a warm hug on a plate, easy to prepare, and packed with vibrant flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and melted Mexican blend cheese over a bed of rice. It’s baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro and optional toppings for a delicious family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Grains and Sauces
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
Spices and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
Garnish and Optional Toppings
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook beef and onion: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming oily.
- Season and combine ingredients: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. Add the black beans and thawed corn to the mixture, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through to blend the flavors.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the cooked rice evenly on 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, followed by the remaining cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes before serving warm for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Use brown rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- For spicier casserole, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
