Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet or casserole dish.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences.
• Comfort Food Classic: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 10.75-ounce can red enchilada sauce
• 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 15-ounce can corn, drained
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ⅓ cup chopped cilantro
• ¼ cup sliced green onions

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 3-quart casserole dish and set aside.
2. Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, cooked rice, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat.
• Cheese Options: Use a Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Ensure it’s fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

Is it necessary to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole?

Yes, this recipe calls for pre-cooked rice to ensure the correct texture and cooking time.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, tortilla chips, or guacamole.

Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Yes, homemade enchilada sauce can be used in place of canned for a fresher flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

Can I omit the cheese for a dairy-free version?

Yes, simply leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What is Slap Ya Mama seasoning?

It’s a Cajun seasoning blend that adds a spicy, savory flavor. If unavailable, substitute with your favorite Cajun seasoning.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Certainly. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the casserole heated through.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or for entertaining guests. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this hearty casserole!

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