Once the beef and veggies are cooked through, I drain any excess fat and return the mixture to the skillet. Then, I stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This sauce is where the magic happens! Simmering this mixture for about 5 minutes allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. It’s that wonderful balance of savory and slightly spicy that I crave.
Next, I layer the casserole by spreading half of the beef mixture on the bottom of my baking dish. I then add a layer of the tortilla strips, followed by a generous sprinkle of cheese. It’s like a warm hug in every layer! I repeat this layering process until I run out of ingredients, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top. Covering it with foil, I bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, then uncover it and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
As the casserole bakes, I often catch myself daydreaming about serving it up. The anticipation grows as the kitchen fills with that mouthwatering aroma of enchiladas. Once it’s out of the oven, I let it cool for just a bit before grabbing a spatula and serving it up. The melted cheese stretching as I cut into it is a sight to behold!
Pro Tips for Best Results:
When I first made this casserole, I admittedly tried to shortcut the sauces and seasonings. Trust me, stepping up the flavor game with good quality enchilada sauce makes all the difference! I’ve tested both homemade and store-bought sauces, and while homemade might be slightly daunting, the right store-bought sauce brings a delicious depth that complements the beef wonderfully.
Secondly, for a little extra heat, feel free to add some chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies into the beef mixture. I’ve done this on a whim, and the slight kick is just what some of my friends love!
Lastly, don’t skip the layering of cheese. There’s something about that gooey top layer that not only looks inviting but also adds a creaminess that every bite yearns for. Experiment a little with different types of cheese; I’ve found that a mix of cheddar and pepper jack gives the best flavor!
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
A common mistake I’ve made in the past is not draining the canned beans properly. Trust me, excess liquid can turn your casserole into a soupy mess! Always make sure to rinse and drain your beans thoroughly to avoid this mishap. Your casserole should be thick and hearty, not runny. (See the next page below to continue…)