If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and just downright satisfying, you’ve got to try this Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe. It’s a classic Mexican-inspired meal that packs juicy, spiced ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in rich red enchilada sauce and melty cheese. Every bite bursts with a delightful combination of textures and bold flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to impress with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe lies in how simple, yet essential, each ingredient is. Every element—from the savory ground beef to the gooey Mexican cheese and tangy enchilada sauce—works together to create a mouthwatering balance of tastes and textures. Nothing here is complicated, but the results are truly spectacular.
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef: Choose fresh, lean ground beef for rich flavor without excess grease.
- 2 small onions (finely chopped): These add a natural sweetness and softness that blend perfectly with the beef.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic brings that irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- 3 cups Mexican cheese: Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for gooey, melty perfection.
- 20 oz red enchilada sauce: The heart of the dish, providing tangy, spicy goodness to tie everything together.
- 8 flour tortillas (8-10 inch size): Soft, pliable tortillas are perfect for rolling up the filling and soaking up the sauce.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for melting the cheese and melding the flavors while baking your enchiladas evenly. Don’t forget to spread 1/2 cup of your enchilada sauce evenly at the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan—this layer acts like a flavorful cushion for your rolled tortillas.
Step 2: Brown the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, combine your ground beef, finely chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook this mixture, breaking up the meat, until the beef turns completely brown and the onions soften into sweetness. This step is crucial because your beef will soak up all the savory aromas from the onions and garlic, delivering that crave-worthy flavor base.
Step 3: Simmer with Enchilada Sauce and Cheese
Now pour in one cup of the red enchilada sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, turn off the heat and stir in one cup of Mexican cheese until it melts smoothly into the beef mixture. This gives the filling an irresistibly cheesy, creamy texture that binds everything together beautifully.
Step 4: Fill, Roll, and Arrange Tortillas
Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface and divide your beef mixture evenly among them. Scoop about 2/3 cup of the filling onto the lower third of each tortilla, then roll tightly to keep all that cheesy meat goodness inside. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the prepared baking dish—this helps prevent them from unrolling while baking.
Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the arranged tortillas, brushing it gently to cover the tops evenly. Then sprinkle the last two cups of Mexican cheese over everything for that perfect golden, bubbly topping when baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese underneath. Then uncover and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and brown slightly. Once finished, your enchiladas will be piping hot, gooey, and absolutely delicious.
How to Serve Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
While this Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe shines on its own, topping it with a dollop of cool sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, or sliced avocado instantly brightens the dish. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add a zesty lift that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette make perfect companions. They help balance the robust flavors and add nice variety to your meal. If you want to get creative, a fresh corn and black bean salsa is a vibrant, tasty option.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or family meals, consider serving these enchiladas family-style right from the baking dish with a big spoon. Alternatively, you can plate them individually and add colorful garnishes layered meticulously to impress your guests visually as well as on the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover enchiladas keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop further overnight, so they’re perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Wrap the entire baking dish tightly with foil or put individual portions in freezer-safe containers. They’ll maintain their taste and texture for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label them for easy identification.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen enchiladas overnight in the fridge, then warm them in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes. This method preserves the melty cheese and moist filling without drying out the tortillas. Microwaving works too but may sacrifice some texture.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas add a more authentic flavor and a slightly firmer texture. Just make sure to warm them before filling to avoid tearing during rolling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, beans, or a plant-based meat substitute. The rich enchilada sauce and cheese will keep it deliciously satisfying.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack Mexican cheese is ideal for meltability and flavor, but you can also use queso fresco or a mix of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.
Can I prepare the enchiladas ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, just bake as directed—adding a few extra minutes if still cold from the fridge.
How spicy is the enchilada sauce?
The sauce usually has a mild to medium kick, but you can adjust the heat by choosing your favorite brand or spicing it up with chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe enough if you want a comforting dinner that feels both homemade and special without spending hours in the kitchen. Its rich layers of flavor and gooey cheesy goodness make it a winner every time. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite in your home!
PrintEasy Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
This Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe combines seasoned ground beef with rich enchilada sauce and melted Mexican cheese, all wrapped in soft flour tortillas and baked to perfection. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 2 small onions, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
- 20 oz red enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas (8–10 inch size)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside to prepare the filling.
- Bake Ground Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Enchilada Sauce and Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the cooked beef mixture and bring it to a light simmer. Turn off the heat, then add 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Fill and Roll Tortillas: Lay out the tortillas on a large surface. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing about 2/3 cup of filling on the lower third of each. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, brushing it to cover the tops completely. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your enchiladas warm with your favorite toppings and sides.
Notes
- For a spicier flavor, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to the meat mixture while cooking.
- You can substitute corn tortillas for flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole when serving.
