A hearty and flavorful dish, this Saucy Beef Enchilada Bake combines seasoned ground beef, layers of tortillas, and melty cheese all smothered in a rich enchilada sauce. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dinner perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 small flour tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for topping)
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned and cooked through; drain excess fat.
- Stir in enchilada sauce, green chiles, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a small amount of the beef mixture on the bottom.
- Layer with tortilla pieces, more beef mixture, and a generous sprinkle of cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and cilantro if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 430 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Flavor Profile and Inspiration
Saucy Beef Enchilada Bake is rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Tex-Mex cuisine. The recipe draws on bold flavors from Mexican staples such as enchilada sauce, ground beef, and cumin, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dish. Its mildly spicy kick, balanced with creamy and cheesy layers, creates a savory depth that keeps people coming back for more.
Cultural Significance
This dish is a modern twist on classic enchiladas, typically rolled tortillas filled with meat and smothered in sauce. The baked casserole format simplifies preparation while preserving the authentic flavors. It’s a reflection of how Mexican-American cooking has evolved to suit family-style meals in North America.
Texture and Layering Technique
Each bite of this bake delivers a perfect harmony of textures. The flour tortillas soften just enough during baking to absorb the sauce without falling apart. The layering technique ensures that the cheese melts evenly while trapping flavorful sauce and beef throughout the dish, creating a lasagna-like structure.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
This dish is perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or even festive gatherings. Its baked format makes it easy to prepare ahead of time and serve to a crowd. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a game day meal, it stands out as both practical and crowd-pleasing.
Customization Options
One of the strengths of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily swap in shredded chicken, black beans, or grilled vegetables for the beef to suit different dietary needs or preferences. It also works well with various cheese blends or spicier enchilada sauces for those who enjoy more heat.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement this bake with simple sides like Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado salad. A cold glass of horchata, iced tea, or even a light Mexican lager pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of the dish.
Meal Prep Friendly
The Saucy Beef Enchilada Bake is highly meal prep friendly. It can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Leftovers also keep well and taste just as delicious when reheated, making it a great option for busy families.
Freezing and Storage Tips
This dish freezes wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the bake in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and store it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Alternatively, bake from frozen with additional time added.
Nutrition Considerations
Although indulgent, this dish can be modified to be more health-conscious. Lean ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can replace beef. Reduced-fat cheese and low-sodium enchilada sauce can further lighten the meal without compromising flavor.
Family Appeal
Kids and adults alike love this recipe thanks to its cheesy top layer and savory meat filling. It’s a great entry-level dish for introducing younger eaters to spiced foods, as the heat level is moderate and can be easily adjusted.
Budget-Friendly Benefits
With minimal and accessible ingredients, this recipe is ideal for families or individuals on a budget. The bulk of the ingredients can be found in any standard grocery store, and pantry staples like tortillas and cheese are often available at affordable prices.
Time-Saving Attributes
This recipe can be prepared and on the table in under an hour. With a single skillet for cooking the beef and a baking dish for assembly, cleanup is also quick, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Comfort Food Qualities
Warm, cheesy, and hearty—this bake hits all the notes of comfort food. It’s the kind of meal that warms the soul, making it especially popular during cooler months or when you’re in need of something cozy and familiar.
Kid-Friendly Adaptations
For picky eaters, this recipe can be easily adapted. Use mild enchilada sauce, skip the green chiles, and offer a side of sour cream to mellow out the spice. Dicing the meat finely or incorporating blended vegetables can sneak in added nutrition without detection.
Party and Potluck Favorite
Because it can be made in large batches, Saucy Beef Enchilada Bake is a go-to dish for gatherings. It transports well and reheats without losing texture or flavor, making it a favorite for office parties, church events, or family reunions.
Flavor Enhancements
To elevate the dish further, consider sautéing the onions with garlic or adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving. Fresh cilantro or chopped scallions sprinkled on top after baking can also add a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich filling.
Cooking Tools Needed
This recipe requires minimal equipment—a skillet, a knife and cutting board, and a 9×13-inch baking dish. It’s accessible for cooks of all skill levels and doesn’t demand specialty tools or advanced techniques.
Allergy and Dietary Adjustments
For gluten-free diners, corn tortillas can replace flour tortillas. For dairy-free needs, use a plant-based cheese substitute and dairy-free sour cream. This dish can also be made vegetarian with meat alternatives or beans as the protein source.
Leftover Makeovers
Leftovers can be repurposed into breakfast burritos, stuffed peppers, or even used as a nacho topping. The flavors meld even more overnight, so the dish tastes richer the next day. This versatility adds to its practical appeal in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Saucy Beef Enchilada Bake is more than just a convenient dinner—it’s a warm, flavorful embrace in casserole form. With its roots in Mexican-inspired cuisine and a design tailored for modern family life, this dish balances tradition with accessibility. Whether you’re looking for something comforting, crowd-pleasing, or easy to make ahead, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s a reliable staple that invites creativity and guarantees satisfaction every time it hits the table.