Beef Enchiladas are a beloved Tex-Mex classic that combines seasoned ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. This hearty dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or when you’re craving comfort food with a kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Filling: The seasoned ground beef, combined with onions and spices, creates a savory and satisfying filling.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding beans, vegetables, or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the enchiladas in advance and bake them when ready to serve.
- Family Favorite: A dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Great for Leftovers: Reheat well, making them perfect for next-day meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Enchilada sauce
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions in olive oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they’re well-covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your choice of toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add Beans: Incorporate black or pinto beans into the beef mixture for added protein and texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Different Sauces: Try green enchilada sauce or a creamy white sauce for a twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- Freezing: Freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a more traditional flavor. To prevent cracking, warm them slightly before assembling.
How can I make the enchiladas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicier enchilada sauce.
Can I prepare the enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What side dishes pair well with beef enchiladas?
Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.
How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy?
Lightly frying the tortillas before assembling can help maintain their texture.
Is it necessary to cover the enchiladas while baking?
Covering helps retain moisture. Remove the foil towards the end to allow the cheese to brown.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach make great additions.
How do I store leftover enchilada sauce?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use corn tortillas and ensure all other ingredients, like the enchilada sauce, are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Beef Enchiladas are a versatile and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your table. Whether you’re serving a crowd or preparing a family dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Customize it to your liking and enjoy the delicious results!
PrintBeef Enchiladas
These easy Beef Enchiladas are filled with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and smothered in a savory red enchilada sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, they make the perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing meal for any occasion. Serve with rice, beans, or a simple salad for a complete plate!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Filling:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup canned diced green chiles (optional)
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1/2 cup red enchilada sauce
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
For Assembly:
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8 flour or corn tortillas (6–8 inch size)
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1 1/2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
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Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
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Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. -
Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. -
Season:
Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and green chiles (if using). Cook for 1–2 more minutes. -
Add Sauce & Cheese:
Stir in 1/2 cup enchilada sauce and 1 cup shredded cheese. Mix well, then remove from heat. -
Assemble Enchiladas:
Warm the tortillas slightly so they’re easier to roll. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture into each tortilla. Roll up and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. -
Top & Bake:
Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with remaining cheese. -
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream, lime wedges, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
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Want a little heat? Use spicy enchilada sauce or add jalapeños to the beef.
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Ground turkey or shredded chicken can be used instead of beef.
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Leftovers reheat well and make a great next-day lunch.