Ground beef enchiladas are one of those comforting dishes that never fail to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. I fondly remember the first time I attempted these cheesy, saucy delights, and it quickly became a family favorite. With a unique blend of spices and gooey cheese, ground beef enchiladas make a hearty meal that can easily feed a crowd or serve as comforting leftovers.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes these ground beef enchiladas a standout? For starters, they’re incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, which is always a win in my book. Kids love the cheesy filling and flavorful sauce, making this a perfect family dinner that pleases even picky eaters.
"These enchiladas were a hit! My kids devoured them, and I loved how easy they were to make. I’ll definitely be adding this to our regular rotation!" – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Ground Beef Enchiladas
Now, let’s talk about how this delightful recipe comes together. You’ll find the process straightforward, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to shine. With just a few key ingredients and some simple steps, you can create mouthwatering enchiladas that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Gather these items
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Sour cream (for topping)
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can swap the cheese or even use black beans as a filling for a vegetarian twist.
Directions to follow
Let’s break down the cooking process into manageable steps so you can create these scrumptious enchiladas with ease.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté everything together for another minute to let the flavors meld.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these ground beef enchiladas is where you can really have fun! Top them off with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or some diced green onions for added flavor. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad to round out the meal. You could even serve some guacamole or tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare but possible!), storing your enchiladas is a breeze. Allow them to cool down before covering them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just be sure to use an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your tortillas are well-heated before filling them; this prevents them from cracking.
- To add more flavor, try incorporating chopped bell peppers or corn into your beef mixture.
- If you want to kick up the heat, feel free to add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your enchilada sauce.
Creative twists
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, why not explore some variations? For a veggie-packed option, swap out half or all of the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can also play around with different cheeses—pepper jack would add a delightful spiciness!
Common questions
How long does it take to make ground beef enchiladas?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes making these enchiladas, including prep time and baking.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded chicken can work just as well, or you can make them vegetarian by using beans or lentils.
What’s the best way to freeze enchiladas?
Make sure they are completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months!
Now that you have all the tips and tricks for preparing these satisfying enchiladas, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy the process and embrace the deliciousness that awaits.
Print
Ground Beef Enchiladas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Beef
Description
Comforting ground beef enchiladas with a cheesy filling and flavorful sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Sour cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté everything together for another minute to let the flavors meld.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
Top with sour cream, cilantro, or green onions for added flavor. Best served with Mexican rice or garden salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg