Name: GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 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)

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Looking for a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner that’s bound to become a family classic? Look no further than these savory, cheesy GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS. Picture tender tortillas packed with seasoned beef, smothered in zesty sauce, then baked under a blanket of melty cheese—every bite is pure comfort. Whether you’re hosting friends or just the usual crew at home, this is the kind of meal that brings everyone running to the table, forks ready!

GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, using a handful of wholesome ingredients that come together for flavor-packed, colorful GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS. Each element plays its part, whether it’s for a boost of richness, a lively kick of spice, or that much-loved cheesy finish.

Lean ground beef: A classic for hearty, juicy filling, lean beef keeps it satisfying without being greasy.
Flour or corn tortillas: Either variety works beautifully, giving your enchiladas a pillowy or toothsome bite—choose your favorite!
Enchilada sauce: Store-bought saves time and still adds terrific zesty, tangy flavor; homemade works for extra depth.
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into that irresistible golden layer before you even take your first bite.
Medium onion, diced: Sautéed with beef, it brings sweetness and body to the filling.
Garlic, minced: Just a couple of cloves wakes up all the flavors in the skillet.
Cumin: This earthy spice is essential for that warm, soulful aroma you expect from great enchiladas.
Chili powder: Offers a gentle kick and gorgeous color, tying the sauce and beef together perfectly.
Sour cream (for topping): A cool dollop on each serving balances the richness and spice.

How to Make GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Bust out your favorite casserole dish and get your oven going at 375°F (190°C). A hot oven ensures your GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS emerge bubbling, perfectly golden, and ready to devour. While it preheats, lightly grease the baking dish—this keeps those enchiladas from sticking and makes serving a breeze!

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Veggies

Set a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef and diced onion. Stir frequently—you want the beef browned and the onions translucent, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush; this step builds that rich foundation of flavor that makes the filling so addictive.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Toss in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Stir them in and let the heat bloom those spices for about a minute. You’ll immediately smell the transformation: warm, savory, and mouthwatering. This is where your kitchen starts smelling like a true fiesta.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Scoop a generous spoonful of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly—the goal is to trap all that juicy, spiced filling inside. Arrange them seam-side down, snugly, in your prepared dish. This way, your GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS hold their shape as they bake.

Step 5: Sauce and Cheese, Please

Pour your enchilada sauce evenly over the assembled tortillas. Don’t be shy; the sauce is what keeps the dish moist and infuses every bite. Finish off with a blanket of shredded cheese. Monterey Jack melts beautifully, while cheddar brings a sharper punch—both are winners, so go with your craving!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan, uncovered, into the hot oven. In about 20-25 minutes, the sauce will bubble at the edges and the cheese will turn glossy and golden. Take in that sizzle—your GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS are ready when piping hot and irresistible on top.

How to Serve GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS

Garnishes

Finish your GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS with a flourish! A generous dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, crisp sliced green onions, or diced avocado all add cool, bright contrast to the warm, cheesy richness. Let everyone dress their own plate for a personal touch.

Side Dishes

Balance out your main event with classic sides. Mexican-style rice, refried beans, or a zesty corn salad are always welcome on the table alongside these enchiladas. Even a simple green salad with a citrusy dressing can freshen things up and complete the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, try serving your GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS individually on colorful plates or arrange them in a big baking dish for family-style feasting. Need to impress? Add festive toppings bar-style—let guests load up on jalapeños, sliced radishes, or extra cheese for a fun, build-your-own twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. The flavors meld together beautifully, making leftovers arguably even tastier the next day!

Freezing

Enchiladas are freezer superstars. After cooling completely, wrap portions (or the entire baking dish) in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be delicious for up to three months; just be sure to label and date, so you know what you’re grabbing when the enchilada craving hits.

Reheating

For best results, reheat GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil until hot, about 20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch—just add a splash of extra sauce so everything stays moist and tender. Either way, finish with fresh garnishes for that just-made flavor.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version—just add a drizzle of oil if meats are very lean, and season generously to keep all that fabulous flavor.

What’s the best tortilla to use for GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS?

Either flour or corn tortillas work well. Flour gives a softer, more pliable bite, while corn offers authentic flavor and a slightly chewy texture. Both are delicious, so pick your favorite or try a mix!

Is it necessary to brown the beef with onions?

Yes, browning the beef with onions is key. The onions soften and sweeten as the beef cooks, infusing your filling with depth and balancing out the savory notes.

Can I assemble GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare and assemble everything up to a day ahead, cover, then refrigerate. When you’re ready, just add the sauce and cheese and bake. This makes dinner a breeze on a busy night.

How do I stop enchiladas from becoming soggy?

Avoid soggy tortillas by not overloading with sauce and baking uncovered. If using corn tortillas, quickly warm them to prevent cracking and help them hold up better during baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s both a comforting classic and a total weeknight lifesaver, these GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS deliver every time. With simple steps and irresistible flavors, they’ll have your friends and family asking for seconds. Make a batch soon—you won’t regret it!