Next, I pour in the enchilada sauce, along with the drained black beans and corn. I let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Meanwhile, I prepare my baking dish. It’s time to layer! I start with a spoonful of the beef mixture at the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, I place half of the tortilla halves in a single layer on top, followed by half of the meat mixture and a generous sprinkle of cheese.
For the second layer, I repeat the process: more tortilla halves, the rest of the meat mixture, and finally, I top it off with the remaining cheese. I love seeing that cheesy goodness piled high! Once it’s all assembled, I pop the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. The anticipation is almost unbearable when that cheesy smell fills my kitchen!
Once baked, I carefully take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. I love to garnish it with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. A slice of this casserole is not only hearty but absolutely satisfying. Every bite is a perfect blend of beef, beans, cheese, and the zesty flavors of enchilada sauce.
Pro Tips for Best Results
When I make this dish, I often test it with varying seasonings to find that perfect balance of flavor. Depending on your taste, feel free to adjust the spices! I’ve discovered that adding a pinch of smoked paprika gives an unexpected depth that everyone loves. You can also lessen the chili powder or add some mild salsa if you’re catering to kids or those who prefer less heat.
Another trick I’ve learned is to not skip the draining step for the canned beans and corn. It really makes a difference in texture! Trust me, soggy tortillas are the nemesis of a great casserole. Ensuring everything is well-drained prevents your casserole from becoming too watery and keeps it hearty and enjoyable.
Lastly, if you want to give your casserole an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or diced bell peppers into the meat mixture. It adds color and a fresh crunch that elevates the dish to another level! Even my picky eaters didn’t mind these extra touches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I’ve made in the past is layering the tortilla halves too high. It’s tempting to want to make a tall casserole, but if you don’t keep an eye on the proportions, it can lead to an uneven bake. The ratio of meat, cheese, and tortillas should be balanced for optimal texture. (See the next page below to continue…)