Ground Beef Enchiladas

Name: Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 8 flour or corn tortillas; 1 cup enchilada sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; Oil for cooking

Who doesn’t love a hearty meal that warms the soul? Ground beef enchiladas offer a delightful combination of flavors wrapped in warm tortillas and smothered in delicious sauce, making them an ultimate comfort food. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor, making it the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

The perfect blend of savory beef, spices, and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds.
It’s a wonderfully versatile dish; customize it with your favorite toppings or side dishes to make each meal special.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night solo, these enchiladas are an easy and fulfilling choice.

If you’re tired of bland dinners, this recipe will revive your menu with flavorful layers that meld beautifully in the oven. Ground beef enchiladas are perfect for bringing a taste of Mexico into your home, delivering satisfaction with every bite.

Simple Way to Prepare Ground Beef Enchiladas

Let’s dive into the culinary journey of making these mouthwatering enchiladas. Cooking can seem daunting, especially with new recipes, but fear not! This step-by-step guide ensures you’ll create an impressive dish with ease. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin your journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly, getting bubbly and slightly golden on the outside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and diced onions. As the beef browns, the onions will soften and turn translucent, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is vital; it infuses the beef with flavor and creates a hearty filling.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Once the beef and onions are cooked, it’s time to add in the aromatics. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for an additional minute until fragrant, allowing the spices to awaken and envelop the beef in their warm embrace.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Now comes the fun part! Take 8 flour or corn tortillas (choose your favorite, though corn adds a traditional touch) and spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This layering technique helps to keep everything together while baking.

Step 5: Add the Enchilada Sauce

With your tortillas snugly placed in the baking dish, it’s time to pour the enchilada sauce over them. You can either opt for store-bought sauce or make your own for an added touch of authenticity. A generous drizzle across the enchiladas will ensure they stay moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the sauce. The cheese will melt into a gooey topping that complements the spiced beef beautifully. If you’re a cheese lover, don’t be shy; add a bit more for that extra stretch!

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for when the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown—that’s the sign you’ve got a winner on your hands.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes; then, serve the enchiladas hot. Top with a dollop of sour cream and any other toppings you love, such as chopped cilantro, diced avocados, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Best Way to Store Ground Beef Enchiladas

Storing these delicious enchiladas is a breeze if you follow these simple guidelines:

Refrigerate: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days at a temperature no higher than 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven at 375°F until heated through and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Making these enchiladas even more special is all about the sides and toppings you choose. Here are some wonderful serving ideas to enhance your meal:

Traditional Sides: Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete, traditional meal.
Fresh Salads: Combine a light salad with fresh greens, corn, and avocado drizzled with a tangy lime vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Top It Off: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, scallions, and jalapeños to add color and flavor contrast.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream not only adds creaminess but also a cooling effect to balance the spices.

Tips to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

Use lean beef (around 90% lean) to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
For added depth, consider adding black beans to your beef mixture—these blend well and enhance the protein content.
If you’re a spice lover, don’t hesitate to increase the amount of chili powder or throw in some fresh diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking for ways to shake things up a bit, consider these variations:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian alternative. Just make sure to adjust the spices accordingly to suit your flavor preferences.
Different Meats: You can also use shredded chicken or ground turkey instead of beef. Each protein brings a distinct flavor and texture, keeping the recipe fresh.

FAQs About Ground Beef Enchiladas

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator before baking for up to 24 hours. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out.

Q: Can I use tortillas other than flour?
A: Yes, corn tortillas are a great gluten-free alternative and bring an authentic taste to enchiladas. If you’re worried about them breaking, quickly warming them on a skillet or in the microwave before filling can help make them more pliable.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To amp up the heat, incorporate additional chili powder, use a hotter variety of enchilada sauce, or add diced serrano peppers to the beef mixture.

Q: Can I use shredded chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, shredded chicken is a great substitute and will still meld beautifully with the enchilada sauce and cheese.
You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option—just shred it and mix it with spices.

Q: What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
A: You can whip up a quick sauce by blending canned tomatoes, chili powder, and some garlic in a blender. Cook it on the stove to enhance the flavors, and you’ve got a quick sauce ready to go!

Nutritional Info

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional aspects of ground beef enchiladas:

Calories: Approximately 380 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 500mg

(These values can vary based on specific ingredients or brand choices.)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Tortillas are too stiff: If your tortillas break while rolling, this may be because they are too cold. Warm them gently to make them more pliable.
Overfilling the tortillas: While it’s tempting to add a lot of filling, overstuffing can lead to a mess. Stick to a few spoonfuls to ensure they roll up easily.
Not seasoning adequately: The beef mixture needs sufficient seasoning; otherwise, the enchiladas could turn out bland. Taste as you cook and adjust the spices to your preference.

Ground beef enchiladas are not just a meal; they’re a delightful experience filled with rich flavors, warm textures, and the comfort of home-cooked goodness. With each bite, you will find joy, be it during a casual dinner with family or a gathering with friends.

Enjoy this tasty dish, and remember that the beauty of cooking lies in making it your own. Happy cooking!

Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground Beef Enchiladas

Why Make This Recipe