If you’re craving real comfort food with a punch of Tex-Mex flavor, you absolutely have to try these Ground Beef Enchiladas. Soft tortillas are generously stuffed with perfectly seasoned beef, smothered in rich, tangy enchilada sauce, and blanketed in gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table do a happy dance, and it couldn’t be easier to pull together on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re treating your family or hosting friends for dinner, these enchiladas are a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to amazing Ground Beef Enchiladas is using simple, quality ingredients that shine. Each component adds something special—flavor, color, or texture—that makes these enchiladas unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish a new favorite in your home.
- Ground beef: The heart of this recipe, lean ground beef brings rich, savory flavor and makes every bite satisfying.
- Onion: Diced small for sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the richness of the beef.
- Garlic: Just a couple cloves crank up the aroma and add a deep, earthy note to the filling.
- Chili powder: Essential for delivering that classic enchilada warmth—don’t skip it!
- Ground cumin: Adds a warm, nutty depth and authentic Mexican flair.
- Paprika: Brings gentle smokiness and a touch of vivid color to the filling.
- Salt & black pepper: A simple duo that enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- Diced green chiles (optional): If you like a little zing, these mild chiles add just the right amount of kick.
- Red enchilada sauce: The star sauce—it ties everything together with bold, tangy flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: That melty, bubbly cheese layer on top makes every bite irresistible.
- Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable; they hold the hearty filling inside. (Swap for corn tortillas if you prefer!)
- Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle over the finished enchiladas for a fresh, herby burst of flavor and color.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your ground beef and diced onion, letting them cook together until the beef is browned and the onion becomes tender—about six to eight minutes. This step is so important because sautéing the onion first brings out its sweetness, and when it melds with the beef, it forms the perfect foundation. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the filling rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Spice and Season
Now it’s time to elevate that filling! Add your minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and—if you’re feeling adventurous—those diced green chiles. Stir everything together, letting the spices bloom and infuse the beef with their aromatic magic. After a minute or two, your kitchen will smell irresistible. Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in half a cup of the enchilada sauce and half a cup of shredded cheddar for a creamy, flavor-packed filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread about a quarter cup of enchilada sauce across the bottom. This little trick not only prevents sticking but also ensures every bite has that signature saucy goodness. It’s a simple step, but it makes a huge difference in the final texture.
Step 4: Fill and Roll the Enchiladas
Spoon roughly a quarter cup of your beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll each one up gently, tucking the filling tightly and placing them seam-side down into the sauced baking dish. Keep them snug but not overcrowded; this helps them hold their shape and lets the sauce reach every nook and cranny.
Step 5: Sauce and Cheese It Up!
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over your rolled tortillas, making sure to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese generously on top—the more, the merrier! The cheese will melt into gooey, bubbly perfection as it bakes, so don’t be shy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and slide it into the oven preheated to 375°F. Bake for twenty minutes, then remove the foil and let the enchiladas bake for another five to ten minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden, sending cheesy, spicy aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the finished enchiladas with plenty of freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these beauties piping hot for the very best cheesy, saucy experience!
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas
Garnishes
The finishing touch matters! Sprinkle a generous handful of fresh cilantro over your Ground Beef Enchiladas and add a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado on each serving. These toppings not only add color and flair but also cool off the spices and bring the whole dish together.
Side Dishes
For a real Mexican-inspired feast, serve these enchiladas alongside fluffy Spanish rice, smoky black beans, or a refreshing side salad. Tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole also make fantastic companions for scooping up every bit of sauce left on your plate!
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by baking your Ground Beef Enchiladas in individual oven-safe dishes for personal servings, or slice them in half and stack in a casserole style for a unique presentation. You can even garnish with pickled jalapeños or a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty twist your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer enchiladas to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors only get better with time.
Freezing
For longer storage, Ground Beef Enchiladas can be frozen right in the baking dish. Wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the enchiladas with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick lunch—just sprinkle a bit of fresh cheese and cilantro on top to refresh them!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are both fantastic alternatives and make your enchiladas a bit lighter. Just follow the same steps for browning and seasoning to ensure they’re just as flavorful as the original Ground Beef Enchiladas.
What if I want spicier enchiladas?
For more heat, add extra diced green chiles, a dash of cayenne, or even sliced jalapeños to the filling or as a garnish. You can also use a spicy enchilada sauce to turn up the fire in these Ground Beef Enchiladas!
Can I make Ground Beef Enchiladas gluten-free?
Yes! Simply switch out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas and make sure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free. This quick swap keeps all the flavor but caters to gluten-free diets effortlessly.
How can I add vegetables to this dish?
If you want to sneak in extra veggies, try adding cooked corn, black beans, spinach, or even grated zucchini to the beef mixture. These additions boost the nutrition and add great flavor and color to your Ground Beef Enchiladas.
Is it possible to assemble the enchiladas ahead of time?
You bet! Assemble your enchiladas, cover tightly, and stash them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for prepping the night before a big meal or gathering—just pop them in the oven when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love the way these Ground Beef Enchiladas turn dinner into a celebration! With their cheesy, saucy goodness and endless customization options, there’s no better way to bring smiles to the table. Give this recipe a try tonight—your taste buds (and your family!) will thank you.
Print
Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Ground Beef Enchiladas are a comforting and flavorful Mexican-American dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (optional)
Enchilada Assembly:
- 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic, spices, and green chiles if using. Stir in 1/2 cup enchilada sauce and 1/2 cup cheese.
- Assemble: Spread enchilada sauce in baking dish. Fill tortillas with beef mixture, roll, and place in dish. Top with remaining sauce and cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Customize by adding black beans or corn to the filling.
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or rice on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
