EASY GROUND BEEF ENCHILADAS RECIPE

I’ll always remember my first attempt at making enchiladas; it was a chaotic, joyful mess in my tiny college apartment kitchen with friends, complete with salsa spills and cheese everywhere! Since then, I’ve perfected the art of creating delicious, crowd-pleasing Ground Beef Enchiladas, and I’m excited to share all my tips and tricks with you so you can make a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Let’s Make Amazing Ground Beef Enchiladas!

Hey there, fellow food lover! I’m so excited you’re here, ready to dive into the wonderful world of Ground Beef Enchiladas. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to a fiesta of flavor, a celebration of comfort food, and a guarantee that your kitchen will soon be filled with the most amazing aromas.

Enchiladas might seem intimidating, but trust me, they’re much easier to make than you think. I’m here to guide you every step of the way, sharing my secrets and answering all your questions. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Why This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe Rocks

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why this particular recipe is a winner. We’re not just throwing some ground beef and tortillas together; we’re crafting a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing.

• Seriously Flavorful Ground Beef: We’re not talking about bland, boring beef here. We’re using a blend of spices that will infuse every bite with deliciousness.
• Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce (Optional, But Recommended!): While you can use store-bought sauce, I’ll show you how to make a simple, yet incredibly flavorful, homemade enchilada sauce that will take your enchiladas to the next level.
• Cheesy Goodness: We’re using a generous amount of cheese, because, well, who doesn’t love cheese?
• Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base that you can customize to your liking. Add your favorite veggies, swap out the cheese, or adjust the spice level – the possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Enchiladas are perfect for making ahead of time. Assemble them, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these amazing Ground Beef Enchiladas:

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• Ground Beef: I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for flavor, but you can use leaner beef if you prefer.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building flavor.
• Chili Powder: This is the star of the show! Use a good quality chili powder for the best flavor.
• Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
• Oregano: A classic Mexican spice.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and acidity.
• Diced Green Chiles: Adds a subtle kick.
• Optional: You can also add other veggies like bell peppers or corn.

For the Enchilada Sauce (Optional, But Worth It!):

• Olive Oil: For sautéing.
• All-Purpose Flour: To thicken the sauce.
• Chili Powder: Again, the star of the show!
• Cumin: More warmth and earthiness.
• Garlic Powder: For added flavor.
• Chicken Broth: The base of the sauce. You can also use vegetable broth.
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For Assembly:

• Corn Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for their flavor and texture, but you can use flour tortillas if you prefer.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great options.
• Optional Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to make these delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas:

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This will really bloom the spices and bring out their flavor.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced green chiles. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra chili powder for a spicier kick, or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce (Optional)

If you’re opting for homemade enchilada sauce (and I highly recommend it!), here’s how to make it:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is called a roux). This will thicken the sauce.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable. You can do this by microwaving them for a few seconds, or by heating them in a dry skillet. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
4. Dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, coating both sides.
5. Place a spoonful of the ground beef filling in the center of the tortilla.
6. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
8. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
9. Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
10. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Enchiladas

Here are a few extra tips to help you create the best Ground Beef Enchiladas ever:

• Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: This can cause them to tear when you roll them.
• Use Good Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Add your favorite veggies, swap out the cheese, or adjust the spice level.
• Preventing Soggy Enchiladas: A common problem! Make sure your filling isn’t too watery. Simmer it down if necessary. Also, don’t over-soak the tortillas in the sauce. Just a quick dip is enough.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations and add-ins you can try:

• Add Beans: Mix cooked black beans or pinto beans into the ground beef filling.
• Add Corn: Corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
• Add Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers add color and flavor.
• Use Different Meats: Try using ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of ground beef. You can also find some inspiration in this Mexican Shredded Beef recipe, which would be amazing in enchiladas.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef filling or enchilada sauce for extra heat.
• Cheese Variations: Pepper jack cheese will add a nice kick!

Serving Suggestions

Enchiladas are a complete meal on their own, but here are some sides that pair perfectly with them:

• Mexican Rice: A classic side dish.
• Refried Beans: Another classic.
• Guacamole and Chips: Perfect for dipping.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing and flavorful salad.
• A Simple Salad: To balance the richness of the enchiladas.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Enchiladas are great for making ahead of time! Here’s how:

Make-Ahead:

Assemble the enchiladas as directed, but don’t bake them. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Storage:

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Freezing:

To freeze enchiladas, assemble them as directed, but don’t bake them. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight. Remove the plastic wrap and foil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

More Delicious Ground Beef Recipes

If you’re a fan of ground beef, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:

• Ground Beef Gnocchi: A hearty and comforting meal.
• Vegetable Beef Soup: A classic soup that’s perfect for a chilly day.
• Taco Casserole: An easy and crowd-pleasing dish.
• Chile Relleno Casserole: A cheesy and delicious casserole.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Dinner: A quick and easy weeknight meal.
• For a fun twist, you could even try Pizza Enchiladas!

Troubleshooting

Encountering problems? Let’s troubleshoot!

• Dry Enchiladas: Make sure you use enough enchilada sauce! If they still seem dry, add a little chicken broth to the baking dish before baking.
• Tortillas Tearing: Warm the tortillas before rolling them to make them more pliable.
• Enchiladas Not Holding Their Shape: Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! Everything you need to create the most amazing Ground Beef Enchiladas. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Now go forth and create some deliciousness!

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas

This recipe provides a straightforward method for making delicious ground beef enchiladas. It features a flavorful ground beef filling, an optional homemade enchilada sauce, and plenty of cheese, all customizable to your liking. Perfect for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef 80/20
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions

Equipment

• large skillet
• medium saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• whisk
• Spoon
• measuring cups and spoons
• knife
• cutting board

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
6. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced green chiles. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Make the Enchilada Sauce (Optional): In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
9. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (roux).
10. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
11. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
12. Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
13. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
14. Assemble the Enchiladas: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
15. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable.
16. Dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, coating both sides.
17. Place a spoonful of the ground beef filling in the center of the tortilla.
18. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
19. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
20. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
21. Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
22. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
23. Bake the Enchiladas: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
24. Serve and Enjoy! Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
25. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.
26. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent tearing. Use good quality ingredients for the best flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to your liking. To prevent soggy enchiladas, make sure your filling isn’t too watery and don’t over-soak the tortillas in the sauce. Enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Add beans, corn or bell peppers for variations. Try using ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of ground beef.