Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

There's nothing quite like a tray of cheesy, saucy Ground Beef Enchiladas bubbling away in the oven. The smell of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce fills the kitchen, promising a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

this Recipe

I first made these enchiladas on a chilly evening when I was looking for something hearty and satisfying. Since then, it’s become a staple in my meal rotation—a dish I know everyone at the table will love. Let’s dive into what makes these enchiladas so special.

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Get ready to discover your new favorite dinner. These Ground Beef Enchiladas bring together bold flavors, easy prep, and endless versatility.

First, they're incredibly simple to make. Even if you're new to enchiladas, the straightforward steps will guide you through creating a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from your favorite Mexican restaurant.

They're also a budget-friendly meal. Using basic pantry ingredients like tortillas, ground beef, and canned enchilada sauce means you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

What makes these enchiladas truly shine is their customization potential. Prefer chicken or veggies? Need a gluten-free option? You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

Finally, these enchiladas are perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week—either for a quick lunch or a reheated dinner that tastes just as good as the first time.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Ground Beef Enchiladas lies in their balance of flavors and textures, created by simple yet thoughtful ingredients.

• Ground Beef: The star of the dish, providing a rich and savory base. Opt for 85% lean ground beef to keep the filling juicy without being too greasy.
• Taco Seasoning: This blend of spices brings the beef to life. Use a store-bought packet for convenience, or mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, making them easy to roll without tearing. If you prefer corn tortillas, warm them first to prevent cracking.
• Enchilada Sauce: A tangy, slightly spicy red sauce that ties everything together. Homemade sauce adds an extra layer of flavor, but canned enchilada sauce works perfectly in a pinch.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend melts beautifully, creating that golden, gooey topping we all love. For an extra kick, try pepper jack cheese.
• Optional Add-ins: Diced onions, black beans, or even a handful of spinach can be added to the beef filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

You'll also need a 9x13-inch baking dish to assemble and bake your enchiladas. A good spatula for transferring the enchiladas is helpful, too!

How To Make These Ground Beef Enchiladas

Creating this comforting dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for enchiladas that turn out perfectly every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing your baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later.

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, then stir in your taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the beef is coated in flavorful spices.

Next, prepare your workspace for assembly. Lay a tortilla flat, add a scoop of the beef mixture in the center, and sprinkle on some shredded cheese. Roll it tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and beef.

Once all the enchiladas are assembled, pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the top, ensuring each tortilla is well-coated. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the sauce.

Bake the enchiladas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving—they’ll be easier to handle and even more delicious.

Storage Options

These enchiladas store beautifully, making them ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

• Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Arrange the enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For refrigerated enchiladas, simply microwave until heated through. Frozen enchiladas can be baked at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes or until warmed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about enchiladas is how adaptable they are. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a leaner protein.
• Add a layer of refried beans to the tortillas for extra heartiness.
• Use green enchilada sauce or salsa verde for a tangy twist.
• Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to make the dish vegetarian.
• For a gluten-free option, choose certified gluten-free tortillas and check your seasoning blend.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. With this base recipe, the possibilities are endless! Whether you keep it classic or customize it to your liking, these Ground Beef Enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite.

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