If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that brings vibrant Mexican flavors straight to your kitchen, look no further than this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe. With tender seasoned ground beef wrapped in soft flour tortillas, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheddar cheese, every bite is like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers hearty satisfaction with a wonderful balance of spices and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe is a breeze thanks to the straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each element plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and creating that perfect, cheesy and saucy texture that enchiladas are known for.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the spices and sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and adding richness.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the beef with that classic depth and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Offers mild heat and traditional enchilada flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings an earthy aroma and complexity.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a hint of smokiness that enhances the beef.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, fresh bite.
- 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce: The vibrant sauce that ties everything together with its tangy kick.
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (optional): Adds a mild heat and bit of texture for a nuanced taste.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Brings that essential cheesy melt that enchiladas are loved for.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Soft wraps that carry all the goodies inside.
- Chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish: Freshness and creaminess to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning. Then add the ground beef, cooking and breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, usually around 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed to keep the enchiladas from getting too oily. Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you’re using diced green chiles, toss them in at this stage. Stir in half a cup of the enchilada sauce and let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors. Finally, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture will be your rich, flavorful filling.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread a quarter cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of the dish; this acts as a flavorful base to keep the tortillas moist. Divide the beef and cheese filling evenly among the eight flour tortillas. Roll each tortilla up tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish. Once all are nestled in, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring every tortilla gets a generous coating of saucy goodness. Sprinkle the last half cup of shredded cheese evenly over the sauce to create a golden, bubbly crust during baking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt nicely under the foil. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden brown. The kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of spices, beef, and melted cheese, making it impossible to wait for serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your enchiladas, sprinkle them with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of green color and a fresh herbal note. Add a dollop of cool, creamy sour cream on top or on the side to balance the dish’s rich and spicy flavors. If you love a little extra flair, sliced jalapeños or avocado on the side make fantastic garnishes, adding texture and an additional layer of flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, refreshing sides that complement its richness. Consider serving Mexican-style rice or cilantro lime rice to soak up any extra sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a nice contrast and lightness. For a heartier meal, refried beans or black beans seasoned with cumin and garlic make a satisfying accompaniment that keeps the meal authentically Mexican and filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or a festive occasion, you can serve these enchiladas family-style right from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves to steaming servings. Alternatively, plate individual enchiladas with a drizzle of crema and sprinkle of cheese, alongside a colorful slaw or radish slices. For a fun twist, cut the enchiladas into smaller bite-sized pieces and serve as appetizers with toothpicks, turning this main course into a shareable party treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy and satisfying next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! To freeze, assemble the enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions, but reheating in the oven helps maintain texture and flavor more effectively.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas add a traditional touch and a slightly different texture. Just be sure to warm them before assembling so they don’t crack while rolling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, and add extra veggies like corn or diced bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
How spicy is this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe?
This recipe offers a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and optional green chiles. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder, or including hot sauce if you prefer something spicier.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The beef mixture can be made a day in advance and refrigerated, which actually helps the flavors deepen. Just assemble the enchiladas fresh before baking.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and provides a sharp flavor that balances the sauce. You can also use a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack for a creamier, milder taste.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm embrace from the inside out. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort anytime. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll fall in love with the cheesy, saucy deliciousness that only homemade enchiladas can bring to your table.
Print
Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe is a delicious and comforting Mexican dish featuring a savory ground beef filling seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, wrapped in soft flour tortillas, smothered with rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly baked to bubbly perfection, it’s garnished with fresh cilantro and creamy sour cream, making it an ideal hearty dinner for the family.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (optional)
- ½ cup enchilada sauce (from the 10-ounce can)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Assembly & Baking
- 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 8 small flour tortillas
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Sour cream for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the enchiladas.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed to keep the filling from becoming too oily.
- Season Beef Mixture: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, diced green chiles if using, and ½ cup of the enchilada sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add Cheese to Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it melts into the beef mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread ¼ cup of the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and add moisture.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Divide the beef mixture evenly among the 8 flour tortillas. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish in a single layer.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This steams the enchiladas and melts the cheese inside.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy ground beef enchiladas.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef filling to increase texture and nutrition.
- Use homemade enchilada sauce for a more personalized and fresh flavor.
- Flour tortillas can be substituted with corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative, though cooking time might vary slightly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
