EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS Recipe
If you are craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than these EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS. This dish combines tender, savory ground beef with classic Mexican spices, smothered in rich enchilada sauce and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. It’s a foolproof recipe that delivers vibrant colors and mouthwatering tastes with minimal effort, making it a perfect weeknight go-to or casual weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and ensuring a satisfying texture. From the juicy, seasoned ground beef to the creamy melted cheese and the subtle warmth of cumin, every component is thoughtfully chosen to create that irresistible enchilada experience.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty and rich base that carries all the flavors.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Adds tangy, spicy moisture that makes the dish saucy and delicious.
- 8 flour tortillas: Soft wraps that hold all the fillings together for the perfect bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Provides gooey, melty goodness on the inside and on top.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Gives a sweet and savory crunch that brightens the beef mixture.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances depth of flavor with subtle pungency.
- 1 tsp cumin: Brings a warm earthiness that’s essential in Mexican-style dishes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates all the other spices and ingredients.
How to Make EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. This step is important because browning builds rich flavor. Once the beef is cooked through, add the chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together until the onions soften and absorb those savory spices, creating a delicious filling that is the heart of your enchiladas.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Before you start filling the tortillas, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This keeps the enchiladas from sticking and adds moisture. Next, lay out each flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture into the center. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling for an extra cheesy surprise. Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the dish, ready to be smothered in sauce.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese, Then Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one is covered generously. Top everything with the leftover shredded cheese to create a bubbly, golden crust. Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese should be perfectly melted and slightly browned, signaling that your EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS are ready to enjoy.
How to Serve EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS
Garnishes
To brighten and balance the richness of your enchiladas, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced avocado. A squeeze of lime juice can add a fresh, zesty kick that complements the spices beautifully. These little extras turn simple enchiladas into a dazzling dish that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Serve your enchiladas alongside a simple Mexican-style rice or refried beans for a complete meal that feels authentic and satisfying. A crisp green salad or some pickled jalapeños can add refreshing crunch and contrast. These sides help round out the meal with variety and texture, making every bite interesting.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re aiming to impress guests or just want to mix things up, consider serving individual enchiladas wrapped in vibrant colored tortillas or topped with a drizzle of crema and sliced radishes. You can also layer the beef and cheese mixture into a casserole style for an EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS-inspired bake. Presentation can be fun and personalized, so get creative and enjoy the process!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as the dish rests, making next-day meals just as delightful. Simply cover the dish tightly to prevent drying out and keep everything fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save enchiladas for a later date, freezing is a great option. Assemble the enchiladas but don’t bake them yet—then wrap the baking dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual for a freshly made taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftover enchiladas in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again, about 15 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave on medium power, but keep an eye to avoid drying them out. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce before reheating helps keep the enchiladas moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas give enchiladas an authentic texture and flavor. Just warm them gently before filling to prevent tears and make rolling easier.
How spicy is this recipe?
This version is mild to moderate in spice. You can easily adjust the heat by choosing a spicy enchilada sauce or adding chopped jalapeños or chili powder to the beef mixture.
Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for cooked beans, sautéed vegetables, or plant-based meat alternatives. Just make sure to season them well with the same spices for that classic enchilada flavor.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble everything a few hours before baking or even the day before. Keep the rolled enchiladas covered in the fridge and bake when you’re ready for dinner.
What’s the best cheese to use for enchiladas?
A good melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend works beautifully. These cheeses melt smoothly and add a creamy texture that complements the beef perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a homemade pan of EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS that just warms your soul with every bite. This recipe is straightforward but delivers exciting flavors and comforting textures that truly make it a staple to keep in your dinner rotation. Give it a try, invite loved ones to share, and enjoy the simple joy of sharing great food!
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EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This easy ground beef enchiladas recipe combines savory seasoned beef, warm flour tortillas, and melted cheese smothered in rich enchilada sauce. Perfect for a quick family dinner, these enchiladas are baked until bubbly and golden, delivering classic Mexican flavors in a simple, comforting dish.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the enchiladas.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Season the Beef: Add the chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the browned beef. Continue cooking until the onions soften and are translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon the beef mixture onto each flour tortilla, sprinkle with some shredded cheese, then roll them up tightly.
- Arrange in Dish: Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down into the baking dish, lining them up closely.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Bake the enchiladas in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Notes
- You can substitute corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, though flour tortillas are traditional for this recipe.
- For extra flavor, add chopped green chilies or a pinch of chili powder to the beef mixture.
- Use a Mexican cheese blend for a more authentic cheesy flavor or mix cheddar with Monterey Jack.
- Leftover enchiladas can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To reduce sodium, use a low-sodium enchilada sauce or homemade version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: ground beef enchiladas, easy enchiladas recipe, baked enchiladas, Mexican dinner recipe, cheesy beef enchiladas
