Crock Pot Shredded Beef Enchilada Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is not only incredibly flavorful but also so simple to make. By using your Crock Pot, the beef cooks to perfection, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender. The enchilada sauce adds a savory and slightly tangy flavor, while the layers of tortillas and melted cheese create a creamy, satisfying bite in every forkful. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a family gathering, this shredded beef enchilada casserole will please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

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

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or similar cut for shredding)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can of enchilada sauce (mild or spicy, based on preference)

• 1 (10 oz) can of diced green chilies

• 1 packet taco seasoning mix

• 1 cup beef broth

• 12 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas, if preferred)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)

• 1 cup sour cream (optional for serving)

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the beef)

Directions

1. Prepare the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot skillet for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Once browned, transfer the beef to your Crock Pot.

2. Cook the beef: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, taco seasoning, and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.

3. Add to the Crock Pot: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the Crock Pot. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and can be easily shredded with two forks.

4. Shred the beef: Once the beef is done cooking, remove it from the Crock Pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the Crock Pot and stir it into the sauce.

5. Assemble the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the shredded beef mixture on the bottom. Layer with tortillas (cut them in halves or quarters to fit), then add more beef mixture, followed by a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers until all the beef, tortillas, and cheese are used up, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

6. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a slightly crispy top, uncover the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.

7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and any other toppings of your choice, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people. Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of 6-7 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in the Crock Pot, followed by 20-25 minutes in the oven.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.

• Use chicken: Swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts in the Crock Pot for a quicker version.

• Vegetarian version: Replace the beef with black beans and additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn for a hearty vegetarian option.

• Add beans: Add a layer of black beans or pinto beans to the casserole for extra texture and protein.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftover Crock Pot Shredded Beef Enchilada Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shredded beef?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shredded beef (like leftovers or from a rotisserie chicken). Just combine it with the sauce ingredients and cook until everything is heated through.

2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. They will create a softer texture, while corn tortillas will give a more authentic, traditional feel.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

5. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker and skip the oven baking step?

Yes! After shredding the beef, you can skip the oven and serve the beef mixture directly from the Crock Pot. You can also layer the tortillas and cheese in the Crock Pot and cook on low for 30-45 minutes to melt the cheese.

6. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?

Absolutely! You can add as much cheese as you like. Feel free to use a combination of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses.

7. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce instead of canned?

Yes, you can use homemade enchilada sauce for a more flavorful and customizable option. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best results.

8. How do I make the beef more tender?

The slow cooking process in the Crock Pot is designed to make the beef tender. Make sure to cook it long enough (6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high) so that it becomes easy to shred with a fork.

9. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add extra chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the beef mixture to increase the spice level. You can also top it with spicy salsa or fresh jalapeños for more heat.

10. What should I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple salad, Spanish rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a side of guacamole or salsa for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Shredded Beef Enchilada Casserole is the perfect combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and flavorful enchilada sauce—all baked into a delicious, layered casserole. With minimal effort and plenty of flavor, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s customizable to your taste, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Try it today for a comforting and satisfying meal everyone will love!