Ground Beef Enchiladas

Name: Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 8 flour or corn tortillas; 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; Sour cream (for topping)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

December 16, 2025

Updated:

December 16, 2025

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Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delightful twist on classic Mexican cuisine. These enchiladas are packed with flavor, featuring tender ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, and melted cheese all wrapped in warm tortillas. They are perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any gathering where comfort food is needed. The combination of savory ingredients and gooey cheese makes these Ground Beef Enchiladas a standout dish that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With a total time of only 40 minutes, these enchiladas are easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Flavorful: The blend of spices like cumin and chili powder brings a robust flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by using different types of tortillas or adding your favorite toppings.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it great for family meals.
Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these enchiladas in advance and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes preparing Ground Beef Enchiladas much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Baking dish
Cooking spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly and sautéing the onions and garlic for maximum flavor.
Baking Dish: Holds the rolled enchiladas securely while they bake, ensuring even cooking.
Knife and Cutting Board: Important for safely chopping vegetables like onions and garlic.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious blend of savory beef, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

For the Filling

1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder

For the Enchiladas

8 flour or corn tortillas
2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

For Garnish

Sour cream (for topping)

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas cook evenly once you place them in the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the lean ground beef along with the diced onions.
2. Brown until the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto each tortilla.
Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Repeat until all filling is used.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese, covering evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy your Ground Beef Enchiladas fresh out of the oven! Top with sour cream as desired for added richness.

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground Beef Enchiladas are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Pairing them with the right toppings and sides elevates their flavor and presentation, making for a memorable meal. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Toppings

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the enchiladas.
Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, fresh or pickled jalapeños provide a spicy kick.

Sides

Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip is perfect for scooping and adds richness to your meal.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice with spices enhances the flavors of the enchiladas while adding texture.
Refried Beans: A classic side dish that pairs well with the savory elements of the enchiladas.

Salad

Chopped Salad: A light salad with tomatoes, lettuce, and lime dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich enchiladas.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas

Creating perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish every time.

Bold seasoning: Use enough spices like cumin and chili powder to enhance the beef’s flavor without overpowering it.
Warm tortillas: Warm tortillas before filling them to prevent tearing and make rolling easier.
Even filling distribution: Spoon an even amount of beef mixture into each tortilla for consistent cooking and flavor.
Cheese choice: Opt for a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a rich taste and gooey texture.
Baking technique: Bake uncovered to allow cheese to become bubbly and golden, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
Rest before serving: Let the enchiladas sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Pairing side dishes with your Ground Beef Enchiladas can create a fuller dining experience. Here are some excellent choices that complement this flavorful main course.

Spanish Rice: A seasoned rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices that adds depth to your meal.
Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, black beans are a hearty addition that balances out flavors.
Corn Salad: Fresh corn mixed with diced peppers and lime juice provides sweetness and crunch.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime adds brightness to each bite.
Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until charred enhances the meal’s overall taste.
Chips with Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for a fun appetizer before digging into enchiladas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ground Beef Enchiladas can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Using dry tortillas – If the tortillas are old or too dry, they may crack when rolling. To avoid this, lightly warm them in a skillet or microwave before filling.
Overstuffing the tortillas – It’s tempting to add a lot of filling, but overstuffing can lead to spills during baking. Aim for a moderate amount of beef mixture in each tortilla to ensure easy rolling and even cooking.
Neglecting seasoning – Ground beef needs flavor! If you skip seasoning your meat, your enchiladas may taste bland. Always season the beef with spices like cumin and chili powder for a zesty kick.
Skipping the sauce – Some may think they can skip the enchilada sauce. However, it’s crucial for moisture and flavor. Ensure you generously cover the rolled enchiladas with sauce before baking.
Overbaking – Baking for too long can dry out your enchiladas. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they’re bubbly and slightly golden.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ground Beef Enchiladas

Wrap each enchilada tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ground Beef Enchiladas

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce, covering until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in these enchiladas?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will still provide delicious flavor while being lighter.

How can I make Ground Beef Enchiladas vegetarian?

You can easily make these enchiladas vegetarian by substituting ground beef with black beans or lentils. Both options offer protein and texture.

What type of cheese works best with Ground Beef Enchiladas?

Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and complements the flavors of the dish well. Feel free to mix types for variety!

Can I prepare Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time, cover with sauce and cheese, then store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Enchiladas are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or even avocado slices. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!