Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas: Your Ultimate Guide to a Quick & Delicious Mexican Dinner
Indulge in the savory delight of Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas – a classic comfort food filled with perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender onions, and an abundance of melty cheese. This incredibly delicious recipe, requiring just a few simple ingredients, promises a restaurant-quality dinner right at your table tonight. Prepare to transform your weeknight meals with this family-favorite Mexican dish!
My adoration for Mexican cuisine is no secret; I could happily enjoy it almost daily. Among the vast array of flavorful dishes, these beef enchiladas hold a special place as one of my all-time favorite Mexican recipes. Growing up, Sunday nights were synonymous with Mexican food in our home. While sometimes it was as straightforward as tacos or burritos, I always eagerly anticipated the nights we had enchiladas.
It was, in fact, one of the first cherished recipes my mom prepared when I introduced her to my husband (then boyfriend). Coming from a household where Mexican food wasn’t a staple, he was instantly captivated by these flavorful enchiladas, loving them completely!
To this day, these ground beef enchiladas remain a regular fixture on our dinner rotation. Their ease of preparation makes them ideal for making a double batch – one for a satisfying meal tonight and another to stash in the freezer for a convenient dinner later. Boasting incredible flavor with surprisingly few ingredients, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why These Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Are a Must-Try
This ground beef enchilada recipe isn’t just easy; it’s designed for maximum enjoyment and flexibility. Here’s why it consistently delivers:
- Ultimate Customization: The filling is incredibly versatile. Feel free to omit the onions if they’re not to your taste, swap ground beef for leaner ground turkey or chicken, experiment with different cheese blends, or even introduce black beans or corn for added texture and nutrients. This recipe adapts to your family’s preferences.
- Tortilla Your Way: While traditional Mexican enchiladas typically use corn tortillas, we understand that personal preference matters. If you love the softer texture of flour tortillas, use them! Both options work beautifully with this recipe, ensuring everyone at your table is happy. We’ll even share tips for working with both types.
- Perfect for Any Occasion (or Size): Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a large crowd, this recipe scales effortlessly. Make a small batch of just two enchiladas for a cozy dinner, or prepare twenty-four for a party. It’s also fantastic for meal prepping, allowing you to assemble ahead or freeze for future enjoyment.
Essential Ingredients for Your Delicious Enchiladas
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these incredible enchiladas. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and textures that make this dish so satisfying. For the full, precise measurements, remember to scroll to the bottom of the post for the COMPLETE PRINTABLE recipe card.
- Corn Tortillas: The traditional choice, offering an authentic flavor and texture. We’ll cover how to best prepare them to prevent cracking.
- Ground Beef: The hearty foundation of our filling. Opt for a lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, or choose your preferred fat content for richer flavor.
- Taco Seasoning: This is where the magic happens! It infuses the beef with classic Tex-Mex flavors. I personally love making my own Homemade Taco Seasoning because I always have the spices on hand and can control the sodium and ingredients.
- Onions: Finely chopped onions add a sweet, savory depth to the ground beef mixture, softening beautifully as they cook.
- Cheese: Abundant, melty cheese is non-negotiable for incredible enchiladas! Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, but a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack also works wonderfully.
- Enchilada Sauce: The unifying element that bathes the enchiladas in rich, tangy flavor. You can use your favorite store-bought cans for convenience or whip up a batch of homemade for an extra special touch.
Speaking of delicious Mexican-inspired meals, don’t miss out on these unique Breakfast Enchiladas for a morning twist!
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Beef Enchiladas
Creating these delightful ground beef enchiladas is a straightforward process, making them accessible for even novice cooks. Follow these detailed steps for a flawless result. For the COMPLETE PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements, please scroll to the bottom of this page.
- Prepare Your Tortillas: This is a crucial first step, especially when using corn tortillas, as it prevents them from cracking and breaking during rolling. You have a couple of options:
- Microwave Method: Wrap a stack of tortillas in a clean, damp towel and microwave for about 60 seconds. This generates steam, making them pliable.
- Skillet Method: Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each tortilla for approximately 10-15 seconds per side until they become soft and flexible. This method also adds a hint of toasted flavor.
- Frying Method (for corn tortillas): For extra sturdy and flavorful corn tortillas, quickly dip each one in a shallow pan of warm enchilada sauce (or warm oil, then sauce) for just a few seconds before filling. This helps to prevent sogginess and cracking.
- Cook the Ground Beef Filling: In a large skillet, brown your ground beef and finely chopped onions over medium heat. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the pan. Once drained, stir in the taco seasoning and water, simmering until the liquid is fully absorbed and the meat is richly flavored.
- Shred the Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, freshly shredded cheese is always recommended over pre-shredded varieties. Shred your cheddar cheese (or preferred blend) and have it ready. This sets you up for an efficient enchilada assembly line.
- Prepare the Enchilada Sauce: Whether you opt for convenient store-bought cans or prefer your own Homemade Enchilada Sauce, ensure it’s warmed slightly. This makes it easier to work with and helps everything come together evenly. Pour about one can (or a generous amount) into the bottom of your 13×9 inch baking dish; this layer prevents sticking and adds moisture.
- Assemble and Roll: Now for the fun part! Dip one warmed tortilla into the enchilada sauce, ensuring it’s lightly coated on both sides. Lay it flat, then spoon about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned ground beef mixture and 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese down the center. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly, forming a cylinder, and place it seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly in the dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Once all your enchiladas are rolled and arranged, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle any leftover shredded cheese and a little extra seasoned beef (if you have any) over the sauce. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and gooey. Remove from the oven and, crucially, let them stand for 5-7 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the enchiladas to set, making them much easier to transfer from the pan without falling apart. Don’t worry, they’ll stay piping hot!
Corn vs. Flour Tortillas: Which is Best for Enchiladas?
The great debate: corn or flour tortillas for enchiladas? Traditionally, authentic enchiladas are indeed made with corn tortillas. Many purists will argue that using flour tortillas means you’re actually making a burrito, not an enchilada. Corn tortillas tend to hold up better when submerged in sauce and baked, offering a more robust, slightly nutty flavor that complements the rich fillings.
Personally, I find that enchiladas made with corn tortillas have a superior texture and flavor profile. However, I firmly believe that your kitchen, your rules! If you prefer the softer, chewier texture of flour tortillas, by all means, use them. They will still produce a delicious dish, just with a different mouthfeel. The most important thing is to use what you enjoy and what you have readily available. Just ensure they are warmed properly to prevent tearing, regardless of the type.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Achieving restaurant-quality enchiladas at home is simple when you know a few tricks. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your enchiladas turn out perfect every time:
- Always Warm Your Tortillas: This cannot be stressed enough! Cold tortillas, especially corn, are prone to cracking and tearing when rolled. Warming them makes them pliable and easy to work with. For corn tortillas, a quick dip in warm oil or enchilada sauce (just a few seconds) before filling can also significantly improve their flexibility and prevent sogginess.
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to pack your enchiladas with as much delicious filling as possible, but overfilling can lead to tears and a messy bake. Aim for about 2 tablespoons of beef and 2 tablespoons of cheese per tortilla, ensuring you can securely roll and place them seam-side down in the baking dish without bursting.
- Allow for Resting Time: Once your enchiladas emerge from the oven, resist the urge to immediately dig in. Letting them sit for 5-7 minutes allows the cheese and sauce to set, preventing a gooey, disjointed mess when you try to serve them. They’ll retain their heat and integrity, making for a much cleaner and more enjoyable presentation.
- Ensure Adequate Sauce Coverage: Enchilada sauce is key for flavor and moisture. Start by pouring a generous layer in the bottom of your baking dish to prevent the enchiladas from sticking. Then, make sure the tops are adequately covered with sauce to keep them from drying out and becoming crispy. You want them moist and flavorful, not swimming in sauce, as too much can make them soggy. It’s a delicate balance!
- Consider Homemade Ingredients: While store-bought works wonderfully for convenience, homemade taco seasoning and enchilada sauce can elevate your dish significantly. They allow you to control the spice levels, salt content, and ensure fresh, vibrant flavors.
Can You Freeze Ground Beef Enchiladas? Absolutely!
One of the best features of this easy ground beef enchilada recipe is its freezer-friendliness. They are perfect for preparing ahead of time, ensuring you always have a comforting meal ready to go on busy weeknights.
You can freeze enchiladas either baked or unbaked. I find that corn tortillas tend to freeze and reheat slightly better than flour tortillas, maintaining a more consistent texture, but both options work well. To freeze unbaked enchiladas, assemble them as directed in a freezer-safe baking dish, but do not bake. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil (and an extra layer of plastic wrap if you wish to prevent freezer burn), then place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator, then bake according to the recipe instructions, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if they are still very cold. If baking from frozen (not recommended for best results but possible), bake covered for about 60-75 minutes, then uncover for the last 10-15 minutes.
Baked enchiladas can also be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then cover tightly or portion into individual servings before freezing. Reheat thawed portions in the microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Ground Beef Enchiladas
To complete your Mexican feast, consider pairing your savory ground beef enchiladas with some classic side dishes and fresh toppings. Here are some fantastic ideas that complement the rich flavors of the enchiladas:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful and fluffy side that adds a touch of authenticity to your meal.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and satisfying, refried beans are a staple on any Mexican plate.
- Southwest Chickpea Salad: For a lighter, fresher contrast, this salad adds a wonderful crunch and zest.
- Slow Cooker Black Beans: An easy and healthy side, bursting with flavor.
- Chili’s Salsa: A fresh, zesty salsa to brighten every bite.
- Guacamole or Sliced Avocado: Creamy, cool avocado provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich enchiladas.
- Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: A dollop on top adds a cooling, tangy finish.
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the entire dish.
- Pico de Gallo: A vibrant and fresh tomato-based salsa for added flavor and texture.
Discover More Mexican-Inspired Recipes
If you loved these ground beef enchiladas, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our delicious Mexican-inspired recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
- Sour Cream Enchiladas: A creamy, tangy twist on the classic.
- White Chicken Enchiladas: Light and flavorful, featuring a delicious white sauce.
- Enchilada Chicken Soup: All the flavors of enchiladas in a comforting bowl of soup.
- Chicken Enchilada Chili: A hearty chili with an enchilada kick.
- White Chicken Enchilada Skillet: A one-pan wonder for quick and easy enchilada flavor.
- Chicken Enchiladas with Green Chili Sauce: A zesty and vibrant alternative with a touch of heat.
Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas
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Ingredients
- 10 corn tortillas, warmed
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 10 oz cans enchilada sauce (see notes)
Instructions
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Brown ground beef and onions together in a large skillet until the beef is cooked and the onions are tender. Drain any fat in the pan.
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Add taco seasoning and water and cook until the liquid is absorbed.
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Preheat oven to 350º F.
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Pour 1 can of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 13×9 inch baking dish.
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Dip a warmed tortilla in enchilada sauce and fill with about 2 Tbsp of beef mixture and 2 Tbsp of cheese. Roll and place seem side down in baking dish. Be careful not to over fill tortillas. Continue with the remaining ingredients.
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Pour the remaining sauce over and sprinkle and cheese and beef remaining over the enchiladas.
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Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and hot. Remove from oven and let sit for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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