Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine but want an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings everything together in one pan, this Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole is your new best friend. Layers of tender corn tortillas, creamy refried beans, gooey melted cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and full of vibrant flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a satisfying meal to meal prep, this casserole offers all the goodness of enchiladas without the fuss of rolling each one individually. Trust me, it’s a total game changer for enchilada lovers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully simple, yet each one plays an essential role in making this Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole incredibly tasty and satisfying. From the creamy texture of refried beans to the melty richness of Monterey Jack cheese, everything combines to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

• Enchilada sauce (15 oz can): Provides the perfect tangy and slightly spicy base that ties all layers together – you can choose red or green based on your preference.
• Cheese (1 lb block, shredded): I recommend Monterey Jack here because it melts beautifully and adds a mild, buttery flavor.
• Refried beans (2 cups): Whether homemade or store-bought, they spread easily and add creamy protein to every bite.
• Corn tortillas (7): Corn tortillas add authenticity and a wonderful soft texture after baking—cut a couple in half to fit your dish perfectly.
• Optional toppings: Fresh avocado, cilantro, tomato, lettuce, onion, jalapenos, salsa, and hot sauce brighten the dish and give it some customizable zing.

How to Make Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Set your oven to 425°F to get it hot and ready while you assemble the casserole. Any size or shape baking dish will work; I like to use a rectangular 10.5 x 7.5-inch pan. If yours is smaller or larger, just adjust the ingredient quantities as needed, making sure layers will fit comfortably.

Step 2: Layer the First Components

Start by spreading about half a cup of enchilada sauce across the bottom of the baking dish. This will keep the tortillas from sticking and ensure every bite is soaked with flavor. Next, lay down a single layer of corn tortillas, slicing two in half if necessary for a neat fit. On top of the tortillas, evenly spread a generous layer of refried beans, then sprinkle a lush layer of shredded cheese. This first layer is what sets the foundation for your delicious casserole.

Step 3: Continue Layering the Goodness

Repeat your layering routine: dollop and spread another half cup of enchilada sauce over the cheese, then add another tortilla layer, refried beans, cheese, more tortillas, one more layer of enchilada sauce, and finally top it off with the remaining shredded cheese. This layering technique guarantees pockets of gooey cheese and beans throughout the entire casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover your dish with foil and slide it into the oven. Bake it for 20 minutes initially to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through. Then, remove the foil to let the cheese on top melt perfectly and turn slightly golden during the last 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and irresistibly fragrant.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes so it sets slightly and is easier to slice. Serve it warm with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like fresh avocado slices or a sprinkle of cilantro to elevate every bite.

How to Serve Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole

Garnishes

Bright, fresh toppings bring the whole casserole experience to life. How about some creamy diced avocado, fragrant cilantro leaves, diced tomatoes, or thinly sliced onions? For those who like a little heat, jalapenos or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can add a lively kick.

Side Dishes

This Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, Spanish rice, or black beans. The crispness of the salad balances out the casserole’s richness beautifully, and rice or beans can add extra heartiness to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this casserole at a party or potluck, consider scooping it into individual ramekins and serving with mini tortilla chips on the side—each person gets their own cozy serving. Or, layer it in a clear baking dish so the beautiful layers peek through, making it almost too pretty to eat (almost!).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Freeze before baking by wrapping the entire assembled dish tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions but keep in mind the cheese won’t be as melty as fresh-out-of-the-oven.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn for this casserole?

Absolutely! Flour tortillas are softer and will give the casserole a slightly different texture, but it’s still delicious. Corn tortillas lend a more authentic flavor and firmer structure once baked.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegan refried beans. Make sure your enchilada sauce is free from animal products as well. The casserole will be just as flavorful.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Definitely. Ground beef, shredded chicken, or even chorizo can be cooked and layered in with the beans for a more protein-packed version. Just cook your meat beforehand to drain excess fat and keep the casserole moist.

How spicy is this dish?

The way it’s written, the spiciness depends largely on the enchilada sauce you choose. You can go mild or hot, and add jalapenos or hot sauce on top if you want more fire. It’s very customizable!

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours or even a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add the extra baking time needed to heat it through fully, and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about a warm, cheesy Bean and Cheese Enchilada Casserole fresh from the oven. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing something delicious to a gathering, this dish always hits the spot. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a cherished staple in your recipe box!

Print