The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas

If there’s a dish that combines comfort and flavor in a single bite, it’s enchiladas. These Mexican delights are loved by many, and today, we’re diving into a ground beef enchiladas recipe that will be a winner in your household. Ideal for dinner parties or simply a comforting family meal, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to pull together.

Ingredients

Ingredients spread out for making the ground beef enchiladas recipe

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, avocado slices

Equipments

  • Medium skillet
  • Baking dish (9×13 inches)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe – Step By Step

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spoon to break up the beef into small crumbles. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and the beef is completely browned.

Step 2: Season the Filling

Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the beef is seasoned evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside the beef mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

Take each tortilla and spread a tablespoon of enchilada sauce over it. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Add a sprinkle of cheese before tightly rolling it up, seam side down.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Grease the baking dish lightly. Then pour some of the enchilada sauce to coat the bottom. Place each enchilada seam-side down into the baking dish, fitting them snugly.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas. Make sure they are thoroughly coated. Sprinkle more cheese across the top evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the dish inside and bake for 20–25 minutes until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and your choice of toppings like sour cream or sliced avocados. Serve hot for the best experience.

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Ground beef enchiladas can be served with a variety of sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. These pairing options complement the savory and spicy notes from the enchiladas perfectly.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

Ensure the beef is thoroughly browned and seasoned for the best flavor. Warming the tortillas briefly can prevent cracking when rolling them. If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling.

High Protein Ground Beef Enchiladas: Power Up Your Meal!

For a high-protein version of this recipe, you can swap out the regular tortillas for whole-grain or protein-rich options that are now available in grocery stores. Additionally, consider mixing in some black beans with the ground beef for an extra protein boost. Greek yogurt can also be a healthy and protein-rich alternative to sour cream when serving.

Low-Carb Delight: Ground Beef Enchiladas

If you’re watching your carbs, you can still enjoy enchiladas by making a few substitutions. Use low-carb tortillas or even lettuce leaves for a lighter wrap. You could also incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini in the filling to keep the dish hearty yet guilt-free.

Storage Instructions

Place any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Freezing is also an option; simply wrap each enchilada with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

  • Can I freeze ground beef enchiladas? Yes, you can freeze the enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • What cheese is best for enchiladas? A Mexican cheese blend or cheddar is ideal, but Monterey Jack or a combination of both works wonderfully, too.
  • How can I make my enchiladas spicier? You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling for added heat.
  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce and spices are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts on This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Ground beef enchiladas are a fantastic dish to enjoy any night of the week. Their versatility allows for creativity in the kitchen, whether you’re adding more veggies or switching up the cheese. Whatever variation you choose, these enchiladas are sure to bring smiles to your table. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments and share this recipe with your friends!

Image of delicious ground beef enchiladas freshly baked

Ground Beef Enchiladas

This ground beef enchiladas recipe is a delicious blend of flavors wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with gooey cheese, perfect for any meal time!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • ground beef
  • small onion
  • garlic
  • ground cumin
  • chili powder
  • enchilada sauce
  • large flour tortillas
  • shredded cheese
  • chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions
 

Steps

  • In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cook until the onion is translucent.
  • Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Take each tortilla, spread enchilada sauce, and add beef mixture; then roll tightly.
  • Place enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish, then cover with sauce and cheese.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
  • Remove from oven, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Keyword Beef, Enchiladas, Family Meal