Name: Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 8 flour or corn tortillas; 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; Sour cream (for topping)

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, satisfying, and downright delicious meal, Ground Beef Enchiladas are the perfect answer. This classic dish brings together tender, spiced ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese that bubbles to golden perfection. Each bite offers a wonderful blend of savory flavors with just the right hint of warmth from cumin and chili powder, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, these enchiladas are straightforward to make and utterly irresistible.

Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is key to creating the perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas. These simple, essential components each bring their own magic: the beef adds hearty flavor, the tortillas provide the perfect vessel, enchilada sauce ties everything together with tang and spice, and cheese adds that irresistible gooey finish.

1 lb lean ground beef: Choose lean to avoid excess grease but keep plenty of juicy flavor.
8 flour or corn tortillas: Flour tortillas are softer, but corn tortillas bring authentic texture.
2 cups enchilada sauce: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch.
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully and add creamy richness.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and complexity when cooked down with the meat.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aromatic depth.
1 tsp cumin: Offers warm, earthy notes characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
1 tsp chili powder: Brings mild heat and smoky flavor.
Sour cream (for topping): Adds a cool, creamy contrast when serving.

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent and tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the savory base flavor essential to the delicious enchiladas.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Once the beef and onions are cooked, stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook together for another minute to allow the spices to bloom and infuse the meat with their vibrant flavors, giving your enchiladas that signature warmth and aroma.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly to keep all that tasty filling inside and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. It’s important to pack them snugly so they bake evenly and hold their shape.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Now for the best part: pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one is nicely coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top for that luscious, melty finish. This sauce and cheese layer is what transforms the dish into a bubbly, golden delight when baked.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Pop the dish in your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the sauce is bubbling enthusiastically and the cheese has melted to a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool a bit before serving to allow the flavors to settle into every bite.

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas

Garnishes

Ground Beef Enchiladas are delightful on their own but garnishing them adds layers of freshness and zing. A dollop of sour cream is an absolute must; it cools the palate and balances the spices perfectly. Don’t forget a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of vibrant color and flavor. For the adventurous, a squeeze of lime juice or some diced avocado can add a lovely creamy finish.

Side Dishes

Pairing your enchiladas with complementary sides takes the meal to the next level. Classic Mexican rice or a simple cilantro-lime rice works beautifully, soaking up any extra sauce. Refried beans or black beans provide a creamy, hearty contrast. For a fresh crunch, a side salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a much-appreciated balance to the richness of the enchiladas.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, consider serving your Ground Beef Enchiladas family-style in the baking dish straight from the oven—comfort food at its warmest. Alternatively, cut the enchiladas into smaller squares for a fun appetizer tray or party platter. You can even layer the filling, tortillas, sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish for an enchilada bake that’s easy to dish out in portions and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Enchiladas store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner option later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these enchiladas either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place your enchiladas in a microwave or oven-safe dish and warm until heated through. In the oven, covering them with foil will prevent the cheese from over-browning. Heated this way, the enchiladas retain their moistness and the flavors taste freshly combined.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a wonderful substitute if you prefer a lighter option. Just adjust the seasoning slightly since these meats are milder, and you may want to add a bit more spices to get that full enchilada flavor.

What type of tortillas should I use, flour or corn?

Both work well depending on your preference. Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, making rolling easier, while corn tortillas provide a traditional texture and slightly nutty flavor. Just be gentle when rolling corn tortillas as they can break more easily.

Can I make the enchilada sauce from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade enchilada sauce can elevate the dish with fresh, vibrant flavors. Using ingredients like tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic, and cumin simmered together can make your enchiladas extra special. However, store-bought sauce is a fantastic time-saver that still delivers great taste.

How spicy are Ground Beef Enchiladas?

The spiciness depends on your chili powder and sauce choice. This recipe is mildly spiced, perfect for most palates, but you can easily increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or using a spicier enchilada sauce if you want a bit more kick.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, corn, or even chopped spinach can be stirred into the beef mixture for added nutrition and color. Just cook them briefly with the onions to soften and blend flavors before assembling your enchiladas.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Ground Beef Enchiladas that makes them a perennial favorite in so many kitchens. The combination of well-seasoned beef, tender tortillas, savory sauce, and melty cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, you can’t go wrong with this recipe. Go ahead, give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 14 reviews

Author: Harry
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 enchiladas (serves 4-6) 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

A comforting and flavorful recipe for Ground Beef Enchiladas featuring seasoned ground beef wrapped in tortillas, smothered with savory enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Filling

1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder

Assembly

8 flour or corn tortillas
2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

For Serving

Sour cream (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the enchiladas.
Cook Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the beef to cook through.
Add Seasonings: Add minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet and sauté for another minute to release the fragrant spices and blend them into the beef mixture.
Assemble Enchiladas: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish to hold their shape while baking.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring each is well coated, then sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top to melt and brown during baking.
Bake: Bake the enchiladas uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown, signaling that the dish is ready to serve.
Serve: Remove from oven and top with sour cream as desired before serving for added creaminess and balance to the flavors.

Notes

You can substitute corn tortillas for gluten-free options or flour tortillas based on your preference.
For spicier enchiladas, add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to the beef mixture.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture is a great way to increase fiber and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican