Ground beef enchiladas are a comforting and satisfying dish that will have your family coming back for seconds. I remember the first time I made them for a cozy weeknight dinner; the combination of flavors, textures, and that bubbling, cheesy topping was nothing short of magical. This recipe showcases the simple yet delicious harmony of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and a zesty enchilada sauce nestled in warm tortillas. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, ground beef enchiladas are a go-to meal that never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
When it comes to home-cooked meals, ground beef enchiladas strike the perfect balance between comfort and convenience. They come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit your family’s tastes, whether you prefer a mild flavor or a spicy kick.
Imagine this: a plate of warm enchiladas straight out of the oven, topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with fresh cilantro. It’s a hearty dish that brings everyone together and is sure to become a family favorite.
"These enchiladas are a weeknight miracle! So easy to make, and everyone at the table loved them!" – Happy Home Cook
Step-by-Step Overview
To make these delightful enchiladas, you’ll start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic. Then, you’ll season the mixture and roll it up in tortillas. After that, drizzle on your favorite enchilada sauce and sprinkle with cheese before baking to perfection.
This step-by-step guide will ensure you can whip up a fantastic batch of ground beef enchiladas without a hitch!
What You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards a delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Sour cream (for topping)
For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or swapping half the cheese for a more veggie-packed filling.
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onions until they’re translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Spoon the flavorful beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For an authentic touch, serve these enchiladas with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans. You can also jazz it up with toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or guacamole to complement the rich flavors!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your enchiladas fresh, let them cool completely before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, cover your enchiladas with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for added depth of flavor.
- For extra spice, add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- If using corn tortillas, lightly warm them in a skillet first to prevent cracking during rolling.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment with the fillings! Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian version. Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers can also enhance the nutritional value. Dress it up with different sauces or toppings like salsa verde for a unique twist.
Common Questions
1. Can I prepare enchiladas in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
2. What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier option.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to two months.
4. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?
Yes! Homemade enchilada sauce not only adds a personal touch but can also be tailored to your taste preferences.
Making ground beef enchiladas is not just a delicious meal; it’s a warm gathering moment for family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
Print
Ground Beef Enchiladas
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
Comforting ground beef enchiladas with seasoned beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce wrapped in warm tortillas.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Sour cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onions until they’re translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Spoon the flavorful beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes
For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or swapping half the cheese for a more veggie-packed filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican