Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for the comforting flavors of a classic enchilada, combined with the cozy heartiness of a casserole, you’re in for a real treat with this Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe. This dish layers savory, seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and two types of melty cheese inside soft flour tortillas, all smothered in rich enchilada sauce and baked to bubbling perfection. Every bite bursts with a perfect balance of spice, gooey cheese, and satisfying texture—making it a true crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients to bring the magic of this dish to your table. Each simple, familiar element plays an essential role in creating the rich taste and hearty texture that make this Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe so irresistible.

• 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that’s seasoned to perfection, giving the casserole its savory backbone.
• 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors and just the right amount of spice.
• 1 can (8 oz) refried beans: Adds creaminess and that classic enchirito texture inside each tortilla.
• 4 large flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling up all those delicious fillings.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful, it melts beautifully inside and on top.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey stretchiness that complements the cheddar perfectly.
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Use mild or hot to suit your taste; it ties everything together with tangy, savory richness.
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall savory profile with gentle garlic warmth.
• 1/2 tsp cumin: Provides earthy undertones that elevate the dish’s authentic feel.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential to balance flavors perfectly.
• Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish (optional): Fresh herbs add a pop of color and brightness on the plate.

How to Make Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your enchiritos won’t stick and the edges crisp up beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. Use a spoon to break up the meat, and drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy. This step builds the meaty foundation for your casserole’s filling.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

To that cooked beef, add the packet of taco seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in about a quarter cup of water to help everything meld together. Let it simmer for around five minutes so the beef soaks up all that wonderful flavor and thickens up perfectly.

Step 4: Warm the Refried Beans

While your beef simmers, gently heat the refried beans in a separate pot over low heat until they’re warm and smooth. This soft layer will add moisture and a creamy component to your enchiritos.

Step 5: Soften the Tortillas

Microwave the flour tortillas for 10 to 15 seconds or warm them quickly in a skillet. This makes them pliable and much easier to roll without cracking, which is key for assembling your casserole.

Step 6: Assemble the Enchiritos

Now for the fun part! Spread a thin layer of refried beans in the center of each tortilla. Top with a hearty spoonful of the seasoned ground beef, then sprinkle a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over it. Roll each tortilla up tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.

Step 7: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one is generously covered. Finish with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese sprinkled on top to create that irresistible bubbly, golden cheese crust.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the edges of the tortillas have developed a delightful, slightly crispy texture. This step locks all those flavors together into a cohesive, hearty casserole.

Step 9: Cool and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let your Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe rest for a few minutes—this helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro if you want an extra layer of flavor and a splash of color.

How to Serve Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh chopped green onions or cilantro really brings a lively contrast to the rich casserole. You can also sprinkle some diced jalapeño for an extra kick or dollop a spoonful of sour cream to balance the spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette, Mexican rice, or even a refreshing corn and black bean salad. These bright, fresh sides help balance out the richness of the enchiritos.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress at your next dinner, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch or top with avocado slices and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra punch. Serving it family-style right from the casserole dish also invites everyone to dig in and share the love of this amazing Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from this casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it’s cooked and cooled. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn; it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole covered with foil in a 350-degree oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid overcooking to keep the tortillas from getting dry.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella offer a great balance of flavor and meltiness, you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend to give your enchiritos a different twist.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can skip the ground beef and increase the amount of refried beans or add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Using a veggie taco seasoning packet keeps the dish flavorful and satisfying.

What kind of enchilada sauce works best?

Either mild or hot enchilada sauce works well, depending on your heat preference. Homemade sauce is fabulous if you want to get creative, but store-bought sauce adds convenience without sacrificing taste.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, just swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Make sure your seasoning packet and enchilada sauce are also gluten-free to keep this dish safe for those with sensitivities.

How can I add more veggies to the Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe?

Adding diced tomatoes, corn, or green chiles to the beef mixture is a great way to sneak in extra veggies without losing any of the classic flavors. You can also top with sliced avocado or serve with a side of sautéed greens.

Final Thoughts

This Enchirito Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough to whip up any night but impressive enough to serve to friends and family. Give it a try soon—you might just find a new favorite comfort food that everyone will ask for again and again.

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