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If you’re craving a comfort food that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures, the Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This layered casserole combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, hearty black beans, and gooey melted cheese all smothered in rich, tangy enchilada sauce. Every bite bursts with warmth and zest, making it a perfect dish to gather around the table with family or friends. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas that promise a delicious meal ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to build the luscious layers and vibrant taste of this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe. Each item contributes to the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish so memorable.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base packed with protein.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Gives the casserole a satisfying, fluffy layer that soaks up all the flavors.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Brings that signature tangy, slightly spicy enchilada flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds heartiness and a lovely contrasting texture.
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Offers bursts of sweetness and a fun pop in each bite.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided: Melts beautifully for gooey, golden layers that you cannot resist.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides warmth and a subtle kick to the beef mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Introduces earthy undertones that deepen the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds fresh, vibrant color and a bright herbaceous note.
- Optional toppings (sour cream, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes): Perfect for personalizing your serving with extra creaminess or freshness.
How to Make Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, making clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef alongside the diced onion until the beef is beautifully browned and the onion has softened to sweet perfection. Be sure to drain any excess grease so your casserole stays hearty but not greasy.
Step 3: Season and Add Beans and Corn
Now it’s time to bring on the flavor. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the meat and onion mixture, infusing it with classic Southwestern spices. Next, fold in the drained black beans and thawed corn, cooking everything together for 2-3 minutes until heated through and perfectly combined.
Step 4: Build Your Layers
Layering is the magic that makes this Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe so indulgent. Spread cooked rice evenly across the bottom of your baking dish, then pour half of the enchilada sauce over it, allowing the rice to soak up all that saucy goodness. Next, add your beef mixture in an even layer, followed by a generous sprinkling of 1 cup shredded cheese. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top, and finish by covering it all with the last cup of cheese. Every layer plays an important role in flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your casserole with foil and pop it in the oven to bake for 20 minutes. This gentle heat lets all the flavors meld together. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes so the cheese melts thoroughly and bubbles, turning beautifully golden and inviting.
Step 6: Garnish and Get Ready to Serve
Once baked, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top and add any optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or diced tomatoes. These finishing touches not only elevate the presentation but add layers of freshness and creaminess that make every bite exciting.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic must-have for color and a refreshing, herby note. Sour cream adds a cooling contrast to the spicy sauce, while crunchy green onions and juicy diced tomatoes bring brightness and varied texture. These garnishes turn a simple casserole into a festive, complete plate.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette adds zing, or serve with warm tortillas for scooping. A side of guacamole or salsa can also enhance the meal, bringing additional flavor and freshness to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole layered in individual ramekins or bake it in cast iron skillets for farmhouse charm. You can also sprinkle some crumbled tortilla chips on top after baking for a delightful crunch. Turning it into a meal bar where everyone adds their own toppings makes it interactive and festive for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe keeps well for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the casserole’s creamy and tender textures.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or use the microwave for a quicker option. Add a splash of enchilada sauce or a sprinkle of cheese for extra juiciness and freshness when warming up.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more chew, which complements the casserole’s texture nicely. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before assembling the dish, as the casserole isn’t baked long enough to cook raw rice.
Is this dish spicy?
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe has a mild kick from the chili powder and enchilada sauce, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños if you like it hotter.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth or a vegetarian enchilada sauce. The beans, corn, and rice still deliver plenty of heartiness and flavor.
What kind of cheese works best?
A Mexican blend cheese usually contains a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other melting cheeses, offering richness and gooey texture. You could also use just cheddar or a combination of your favorites to suit your taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from cold.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to your dinner table in just under an hour. Its blend of simple ingredients and easy steps creates a satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your skillet and baking dish, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a big, delicious hug.
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Print
Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce layered with rice and melted Mexican cheese blend. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy one-dish meal perfect for family dinners, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like sour cream and green onions.
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
Seasonings and Cheese
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish and Optional Toppings
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream
- Optional: sliced green onions
- Optional: diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is thoroughly cooked and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.
- Season and Add Beans and Corn: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Add the drained black beans and thawed corn, cooking for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and flavorful.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked rice in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the enchilada sauce evenly over the rice layer. Add the beef, bean, and corn mixture on top, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over that. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top, and finish with the remaining cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- If you prefer, use brown rice to add more fiber and nutrients.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from beef to keep casserole from becoming greasy.
