This Santa Fe–Style Red Chile Beef Tortilla Casserole is everything you love about Southwestern comfort food layered into one irresistible dish. Tender seasoned beef, earthy red chile sauce, and soft corn tortillas come together with plenty of melted cheese to create a rustic, hearty bake packed with deep, satisfying flavor. It’s bold without being overwhelming, cozy yet vibrant, and built to feed a hungry crowd with ease.
The red chile sauce is the soul of this casserole — smoky, earthy, and rich. Simmered briefly with cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, and chili powder, it infuses the beef with classic Santa Fe depth. Layering the tortillas like a lasagna allows them to soak up all that flavor while staying wonderfully tender beneath a bubbling crown of golden cheese.
Every slice delivers warm spices, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of chile heat. Whether served as a main dish for a family dinner or featured as the centerpiece of a Southwestern-themed gathering, it’s the kind of recipe that invites seconds. Add your favorite toppings — fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sour cream — to brighten the richness and complete the dish.
Simple, comforting, and full of Santa Fe soul, this casserole is destined to become a repeat favorite.
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Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada or red chile sauce
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10–12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar-jack cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Optional toppings:
• Cilantro
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced green onions
• Jalapeños
Instructions:
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