Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

There’s something magical about the sizzle of seasoned beef and the aroma of spices blending into perfection. These Ground Beef Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food – hearty, cheesy, and smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce.

I remember the first time I made enchiladas; it was a chaotic weeknight, and I was desperate for something quick yet satisfying. With just a few pantry staples, this recipe came together effortlessly and won over even the pickiest eaters in my household. Now, it’s a go-to dish for family dinners and casual gatherings.

Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Ground Beef Enchiladas

Prepare to fall head over heels for this crowd-pleasing dish. These Ground Beef Enchiladas offer everything you want in a meal – bold flavors, a comforting texture, and total ease of preparation.

First, they’re incredibly quick and easy to make. From browning the beef to assembling the enchiladas, the whole process takes less than an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties!

Second, this recipe is a budget-friendly delight. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, tortillas, and pantry spices, you’ll feed a family without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love these enchiladas is their customizability. Whether you want to swap in ground turkey, load them up with veggies, or adjust the spice level, this recipe is endlessly adaptable to your preferences.

Finally, it’s all about that irresistible homemade enchilada sauce. Rich, smoky, and perfectly spiced, it elevates the entire dish and makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredient Notes

This recipe shines thanks to a few simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Let’s break them down so you can create the perfect batch of enchiladas every time.

Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef works too but might need a splash of oil to prevent dryness.

Tortillas: Traditional corn tortillas give enchiladas their signature texture. Warm them briefly to prevent cracking while rolling. Flour tortillas can also work if you prefer a softer wrap.

Cheese: A mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack creates the ultimate gooey, melty topping. For a kick of heat, try adding some pepper jack cheese.

Homemade Enchilada Sauce: While store-bought is convenient, making your own sauce is a game-changer. Combine tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and garlic for a rich, smoky flavor that’s miles ahead of anything prepackaged.

Seasonings: A blend of cumin, paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder ensures the ground beef is perfectly seasoned. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper to taste!

Optional Add-ins: Black beans, diced green chilies, or corn can be mixed into the filling for added texture and flavor.

Special Equipment: A large skillet for browning the beef and a 9x13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the enchiladas are all you need.

How to Make These Ground Beef Enchiladas

Making these Ground Beef Enchiladas is a straightforward process that even beginner cooks can master. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling:
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease and stir in your seasonings, including cumin, paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder. Let the spices toast for a minute to enhance their flavor.

2. Assemble the Enchiladas:
Warm your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable. Spread a spoonful of enchilada sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish. Add a scoop of the seasoned beef filling to each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and roll them tightly. Place them seam-side down in the prepared dish.

3. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they’re fully coated. Sprinkle generously with the cheese blend, covering the surface for that gooey, golden finish.

4. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the enchiladas in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a slightly crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

5. Garnish and Serve:
Let the enchiladas cool slightly before garnishing with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! These enchiladas store beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or reheating.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: Assemble the enchiladas without the sauce and cheese topping. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, add sauce and cheese, and bake as directed.
• Reheating Tip: Cover the dish with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

Variations and Substitutions

These Ground Beef Enchiladas are endlessly versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Protein Swaps: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the beef mixture for a veggie-packed version.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap out the cheese blend for a smoky gouda, spicy pepper jack, or creamy queso fresco.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using mild or hot enchilada sauce and adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.

The possibilities are endless – don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, these Ground Beef Enchiladas are guaranteed to impress. With their rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and satisfying texture, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the enchilada magic begin!

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