Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground Beef Enchiladas are the perfect comfort food dish that melds tender tortillas with a savory, hearty filling. Imagine layering bold flavors from seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce—each bite is a delicious explosion. I first made these enchiladas during a cozy family gathering, and they quickly became a go-to recipe. Whether you’re preparing for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, these enchiladas are unbeatable.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this recipe apart is its combination of simplicity and rich taste. It’s a one-pan wonder that satisfies hungry bellies without breaking the bank. Ground Beef Enchiladas are an easy choice for busy nights, yet they feel special enough for casual get-togethers. Not to mention, you can customize these gems to your family’s preferences or dietary needs.

“These enchiladas are a weekly favorite in our house. They’re so easy to make and disappear within minutes!” – Happy Dinner Maker

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating these Ground Beef Enchiladas is a breeze. You start by browning your ground beef with onions, adding flavor with spices, and then rolling it all into tortillas. The enchiladas soak up the sauce while baking, making for a truly delicious meal. Here’s a quick overview of how simple the process is:

1. Brown the beef and onions until translucent.
2. Mix in the spices for that authentic kick.
3. Fill the tortillas and place them in a baking dish.
4. Top with sauce and cheese, and you’re almost there!
5. Bake until golden and bubbly.

It’s as straightforward as it gets.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make these Ground Beef Enchiladas, you’ll need:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (you can use 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 substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative. The enchilada sauce can also be modified to match your preferred spice level.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onions over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
3. Add in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, sautéing for an additional minute to release the flavors.
4. Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
5. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are well-coated.
6. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is golden.

Best Way to Serve

Ground Beef Enchiladas shine when topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro. To complement the enchiladas, consider serving them with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Guacamole and tortilla chips also make excellent appetizers while waiting for the main dish!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, these enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Safe food handling is paramount—be sure to cool them completely before freezing.

Tips and Tricks

For the best flavor and texture:

• Use lean ground beef to reduce grease—nobody likes soggy enchiladas.
• Sautéing the spices along with the garlic enhances the overall flavor.
• For an extra cheesy experience, mix in some cheese with the beef filling.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding sautéed peppers or even beans into the filling for added nutrients.

Creative twists

Want to change things up? Try these variations for a fresh take on classic enchiladas:

• Spicy Chicken Enchiladas: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken and kick it up a notch with jalapeños in the filling.
• Vegetarian Enchiladas: Replace meat with a mixture of roasted vegetables or black beans for a hearty vegan option.
• Breakfast Enchiladas: Stuff them with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of breakfast meat for a perfect brunch dish.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Ground Beef Enchiladas?

From start to finish, expect to spend about 45 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if starting from the refrigerator.

Are these enchiladas spicy?

The spice level can easily be adjusted! If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the chili powder or opt for a milder enchilada sauce.

These Ground Beef Enchiladas are not just a meal—they’re a celebration of flavors, perfect for any occasion. By embracing this comforting dish, you’re sure to impress both family and friends alike!

Ground Beef Enchiladas

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Comforting enchiladas filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onions over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
3. Add in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, sautéing for an additional minute to release the flavors.
4. Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
5. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are well-coated.
6. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is golden.

Notes

Serve with sour cream and cilantro. Pairs well with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.

• 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

Keywords: enchiladas, ground beef, Mexican food, comfort food