Ground beef enchiladas are a beloved comfort food, known for their rich flavors and satisfying textures. This dish holds a special place in many homes, often making an appearance during family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or casual get-togethers with friends. The combination of seasoned meat, gooey cheese, and aromatic spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas, creates a meal that delights both young and old alike. I have fond memories of making these enchiladas with my family, passing down tips and tricks over the years that bring out the best in them.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Ground beef enchiladas are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile and easy to make. They brighten any dinner table and are perfect for a variety of occasions—from busy weeknights to festive celebrations. This recipe is budget-friendly, using minimal ingredients while still packing a flavorful punch that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish checks all the boxes.
“These enchiladas have become my go-to recipe for game nights! They’re so easy to make and everyone loves them!”
Step-by-Step Overview
Making ground beef enchiladas is a straightforward process that comes together in just about 40 minutes. Start by preparing your filling in a skillet, then roll it into tortillas, cover with enchilada sauce, and bake until bubbly. It’s that simple! Great for meal prep, and even better when topped with sour cream, this dish is sure to impress.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items for a delicious batch of ground beef enchiladas:
- 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)
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and feel free to use different cheese types based on your preference!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These enchiladas stand out on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with a variety of toppings and sides. Consider serving them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. Adding a dollop of sour cream and some diced avocado on top can elevate the dish, giving it that extra touch of delight. For drinks, a refreshing margarita or a crisp cold cerveza can complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your enchiladas fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, where they can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to heat them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring food safety and great flavor retention.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For the best results with your ground beef enchiladas, consider these simple tips:
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish light while still enjoying all the bold flavors.
- Sautéing the onions before adding them to the beef enhances their sweetness, adding depth to the dish.
- If you’re a fan of spice, don’t hesitate to add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Creative Twists
While this recipe is a classic, there are plenty of ways to give it a personal touch. Experiment with different proteins like shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option. You can also add grilled veggies or changing the cheese to pepper jack for a kick. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or lime zest for that extra zing!
Common Questions
How long does it take to make these enchiladas?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Are there any substitutions for the meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef, or you can opt for a plant-based substitute for a vegetarian version.
By understanding the charm behind ground beef enchiladas and how to perfect them, you’ll be ready to whip up this delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Whether sharing with family or enjoying them solo, this meal is sure to warm your heart!
PrintGround Beef Enchiladas
Savory ground beef enchiladas wrapped in tortillas, topped with cheese and enchilada sauce, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Omnivore
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, cook the ground beef with diced onions until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and chili powder, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Pair with sides like Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
