Beef Enchiladas Recipe

There's nothing like the savory aroma of Beef Enchiladas bubbling away in the oven to make your home feel warm and inviting. This Mexican-inspired classic features tender, flavorful ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in a rich, zesty enchilada sauce and gooey melted cheese.

I first discovered the magic of enchiladas during a family taco night gone rogue. Instead of the usual tacos, I decided to experiment with baking tortillas filled with beef, cheese, and spices—and the result was a show-stopping dish that’s now a staple in my home. Ready to try your hand at these irresistible beef enchiladas? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Beef Enchiladas

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe rotation. These Beef Enchiladas are everything you could ask for in a dinner dish: comforting, flavorful, and so easy to make.

First, they’re incredibly family-friendly. Even the pickiest eaters will love the combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and soft tortillas. It’s a surefire way to get everyone excited about dinner!

They’re also quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

This dish is budget-friendly too. Using affordable, everyday ingredients like ground beef, tortillas, and canned enchilada sauce means you don’t have to break the bank to create a delicious meal.

Finally, these enchiladas are versatile. You can customize them to suit your family’s tastes by switching up the protein, adding veggies, or tweaking the spice level.

Whether you're cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these beef enchiladas are sure to hit the spot. Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating enchiladas that are hearty, zesty, and utterly satisfying.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the filling. It provides a rich, savory base that soaks up the seasonings beautifully. You could also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
• Tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas both work, but corn tortillas offer a more authentic flavor. Warm them slightly before assembling to prevent cracking.
• Enchilada Sauce: Canned or homemade enchilada sauce will do the trick! Look for a medium or mild sauce if you want to keep the spice level family-friendly, or go for hot if you’re a spice lover.
• Cheese: A mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack is my go-to for maximum gooeyness. Feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
• Spices: A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika adds depth and warmth to the filling. Don’t skip these—they make all the difference!

No special equipment is needed, just a trusty baking dish and some foil. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make These Beef Enchiladas

Making Beef Enchiladas is easier than you think. Follow these steps to create a dish your whole family will rave about.

1. Prepare the Filling: Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then add the spices—chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir in a few tablespoons of enchilada sauce to moisten the mixture.
2. Assemble the Enchiladas: Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture into the center, then sprinkle with a handful of shredded cheese. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
3. Add the Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Be sure to coat them completely for maximum flavor. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top.
4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

From start to finish, you’ll need about 45 minutes to make these enchiladas. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store them so they taste just as good the next day:

• Refrigerate: Store cooled enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place individual enchiladas or the entire dish (wrapped tightly in foil) in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the enchiladas in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

These enchiladas are wonderfully adaptable! Here are some ideas to make them your own:

• Protein Swap: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian twist.
• Add Veggies: Mix sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the filling for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Sauce Experimentation: Use green enchilada sauce or a creamy white sauce for a fun twist on the traditional red.
• Cheese Lovers: Swap in queso fresco or Cotija cheese for a more authentic Mexican flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious!

Conclusion

There’s something magical about serving up a bubbling tray of Beef Enchiladas. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re gathering around the table for a weeknight dinner or celebrating with friends. With its savory filling, rich sauce, and irresistible cheese topping, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.

So grab your skillet, roll up those tortillas, and let the enchilada magic begin! Your taste buds will thank you.

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