Beef Enchiladas Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting flavors of beef enchiladas to turn an ordinary evening into a fiesta. Tender tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese create a dish that's both hearty and irresistible.

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I first made this recipe for a casual family dinner, and it quickly became a favorite. It's the perfect combination of easy prep and bold, crowd-pleasing flavors. Ready to make these enchiladas your go-to dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite Tex-Mex dish. These beef enchiladas are as delicious as they are easy to make, with flavors that will transport you straight to your favorite Mexican restaurant.

First, this recipe is quick and simple. From start to finish, you’ll have a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The ingredients are budget-friendly and readily available. You won’t need to hunt down specialty items—most of these ingredients might already be in your kitchen.

This dish is perfect for entertaining. The casserole-style preparation makes it easy to serve, and it’s sure to impress guests with its vibrant presentation and authentic taste.

Finally, these enchiladas are highly customizable. Whether you like them spicy, mild, or packed with veggies, this recipe adapts to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of beef enchiladas lies in the simplicity of the ingredients, each contributing to the rich, layered flavors that make this dish unforgettable.

Ground beef forms the heart of the filling. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can work, but you might need to add a little extra seasoning to compensate.

Enchilada sauce is the soul of this dish. A good-quality red enchilada sauce makes all the difference, adding that signature smoky, slightly tangy flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own from scratch for maximum freshness.

Tortillas provide the structure. Soft flour tortillas hold up well during baking, but corn tortillas add a more traditional flavor and texture. Both work beautifully, so choose based on your preference.

Cheese is the finishing touch. A blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates the perfect melty topping, but you can experiment with other varieties like Pepper Jack for a bit of heat.

Don’t forget the aromatics. Onion, garlic, and a hint of chili powder in the beef filling add depth and complexity, elevating the flavor of the entire dish.

You’ll need a 9x13-inch baking dish for this recipe, as it perfectly accommodates a full batch of enchiladas without overcrowding.

How To Make This Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Making these beef enchiladas is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure delicious results every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, brown 1 pound of ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease and add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Stir in 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add a splash of enchilada sauce (about ¼ cup) to the beef mixture, just enough to coat the filling and keep it moist.

Warm your tortillas briefly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.

Once all the tortillas are snugly packed in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded cheese, ensuring every inch is covered.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair.

Storage Options

Leftover beef enchiladas store beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

Microwaving is a quick option for single servings. Cover the enchilada with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This beef enchiladas recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Switch up the protein. Swap ground beef for shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.

Add some veggies. Mix in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach with the beef filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

Make it spicier. Use a spicy enchilada sauce or add diced jalapeños to the filling for a kick of heat.

Experiment with sauces. Try green enchilada sauce or a creamy white sauce for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Change up the cheese. Substitute queso fresco, Colby Jack, or a smoky Gouda for a different flavor profile.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation, so feel free to try new combinations of flavors and ingredients. Whatever you choose, it’s bound to be delicious!

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