If you’re craving bold flavors with minimal effort, these Ground Beef Enchiladas are the perfect solution! Each bite is packed with tender beef, rich and spicy enchilada sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese. The warm corn tortillas hold everything together beautifully, creating a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re in the mood for a Mexican inspired feast, these enchiladas come together quickly and can be customized with extra toppings like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado. Serve them with Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10-12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving, optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, diced green chilies (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce to the beef mixture, then remove from heat.
- Lightly heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes for a crispy top.
- Let enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Ground Beef Enchiladas: A Comforting and Flavorful Classic
Ground Beef Enchiladas are one of those dishes that never fail to impress. Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal or looking for a satisfying dish for a gathering, enchiladas always deliver. This Mexican-inspired classic combines seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a rich, spicy enchilada sauce, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas and baked to perfection.
But what makes this dish so irresistible? In this guide, we’ll explore the history of enchiladas, their variations, essential cooking tips, and the best side dishes to serve with them.
A Brief History of Enchiladas
Enchiladas have a long and fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Aztecs. The name “enchilada” comes from the Spanish word enchilar, which means “to season with chili.” Long before the Spanish arrived in Mexico, indigenous people were already rolling tortillas around fillings such as fish and game meat and topping them with chili based sauces.
The enchilada evolved over time as new ingredients were introduced to Mexican cuisine. When the Spanish brought dairy products and livestock, cheese and beef became staple ingredients in enchiladas. The dish quickly gained popularity throughout Mexico and eventually spread to the United States and beyond, where it took on regional twists and variations.
Why Ground Beef Enchiladas Are So Popular
There are countless reasons why Ground Beef Enchiladas have become a staple meal in many households. Here are some of the key factors that make this dish so beloved:
1. Rich and Comforting Flavors
Ground beef is cooked with a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, giving it a deep and savory taste. When combined with melted cheese and a bold enchilada sauce, the flavors meld together to create an irresistible dish.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike some traditional Mexican dishes that require hours of preparation, enchiladas come together relatively quickly. Once the beef is cooked and the tortillas are filled, it’s just a matter of assembling and baking.
3. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about enchiladas is their versatility. You can adjust the spice level, add extra ingredients, or swap out components to suit your dietary needs.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
Enchiladas store well in the refrigerator and freezer, making them an excellent choice for batch cooking. You can prepare a large batch, freeze individual portions, and reheat them for an easy meal on busy days.
Popular Variations of Ground Beef Enchiladas
While the classic version of Ground Beef Enchiladas is delicious on its own, there are several creative ways to put a unique spin on this dish. Here are some popular variations:
1. Beef and Bean Enchiladas
For added texture and flavor, refried beans or black beans can be mixed into the beef filling. This variation adds protein and fiber, making the dish even more satisfying.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Enchiladas
If you love heat, adding chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or using a spicy enchilada sauce can give the dish an extra kick.
3. Creamy Enchiladas
To make the filling extra rich, mix sour cream or cream cheese into the beef mixture before rolling the tortillas. This results in a creamy, melt in your mouth texture.
4. Cheesy Overload Enchiladas
For those who can’t get enough cheese, you can load up the inside of the enchiladas with extra cheese and sprinkle an extra generous layer on top before baking.
5. Tex-Mex Style Enchiladas
Tex-Mex enchiladas often include extra toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, and avocado for added freshness and texture.
Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Enchiladas
To ensure that your enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, here are some essential cooking tips:
1. Use Fresh Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for enchiladas. To prevent them from breaking when rolled, warm them slightly in a dry skillet or microwave before filling.
2. Drain Excess Grease from the Beef
After browning the ground beef, drain any excess grease to prevent the filling from becoming too oily.
3. Don’t Overfill the Tortillas
It’s tempting to load up each tortilla with a generous amount of filling, but overfilling can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst open while baking.
4. Spread Sauce at the Bottom of the Baking Dish
Before placing the enchiladas in the dish, spread a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. This prevents them from sticking and ensures even flavor distribution.
5. Cover with Foil While Baking
Covering the enchiladas with foil for the first part of baking helps prevent the cheese from burning and allows the tortillas to absorb moisture from the sauce.
6. Let Them Rest Before Serving
After baking, let the enchiladas sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes them easier to serve.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Enchiladas
To make a complete and balanced meal, consider serving your enchiladas with some delicious side dishes. Here are a few options:
1. Mexican Rice
Fluffy, seasoned rice pairs perfectly with enchiladas and helps soak up the extra sauce.
2. Black Beans or Refried Beans
Beans add protein and fiber, making the meal even more nutritious.
3. Guacamole and Salsa
A side of creamy guacamole or a fresh salsa adds a cool, refreshing contrast to the richness of the enchiladas.
4. Corn Salad
A vibrant corn salad with tomatoes, lime juice, and cilantro provides a bright and zesty complement.
5. Tortilla Chips
Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa or queso dip make a great appetizer or side.
How to Store and Reheat Enchiladas
One of the best things about Ground Beef Enchiladas is that they store well and can be enjoyed later. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap enchiladas individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food rich, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you enjoy them with a side of rice and beans or customize them with your favorite toppings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The versatility of enchiladas allows for endless variations, making them a staple in both Mexican and Tex Mex cuisine. By following a few simple cooking tips, you can ensure that your enchiladas turn out perfect every time.
Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying choice. Try them today and experience the magic of this classic dish!