There’s something magical about the aroma of cheesy ground beef enchiladas wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the air. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, these enchiladas are easy to whip up and sure to impress your loved ones. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can create a dish that brings everyone together. Let’s dive into this cheesy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
These cheesy ground beef enchiladas are a game-changer for any home cook. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick solution for busy nights. The rich flavors and gooey cheese create a comforting dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re versatile! You can easily customize them to suit your taste. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these cheesy ground beef enchiladas. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: The star of the show! It provides a hearty base and rich flavor.
Onion: Diced small, it adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
Garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
Chili powder: This spice brings warmth and a hint of smokiness.
Cumin: Earthy and slightly nutty, it’s essential for that authentic Mexican flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
Enchilada sauce: The sauce ties everything together, adding moisture and zest.
Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, they wrap around the filling perfectly.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded for that gooey, melty goodness that everyone loves.
Sour cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
Cilantro: Freshly chopped for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or opting for a spicy enchilada sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully. And for a vegetarian twist, black beans can replace the meat. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making cheesy ground beef enchiladas is a straightforward process that will have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your enchiladas cook evenly. No one likes a soggy tortilla, right? So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep your enchiladas from becoming greasy. A leaner filling means a tastier dish!
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Once your beef is cooked, it’s time to add flavor. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This step is essential for infusing your beef with that classic enchilada taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let those spices mingle and develop their full flavor.
Step 4: Combine with Enchilada Sauce
Remove the skillet from heat and add half of the enchilada sauce to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine. This is where the magic happens! The sauce adds moisture and richness, making your filling irresistible.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce on the bottom. This not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor to the tortillas as they bake. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!
Step 6: Assemble the Enchiladas
Now for the fun part! Take a flour tortilla and place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center. Sprinkle a little cheese on top, then roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and snugly arranged in the dish.
Step 7: Bake the Enchiladas
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect melt!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once your enchiladas are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that fresh touch. Serve them up and watch everyone dig in!
Tips for Success
Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Warm the tortillas slightly before filling to make them more pliable.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the enchiladas hold their shape.
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a twist.
Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great for easy cleanup.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any oven-safe dish will do.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing and stirring the beef mixture.
Measuring cups: Handy for portioning the filling.
Aluminum foil: Essential for covering the dish while baking.
Variations
Spicy Enchiladas: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty meatless meal.
Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like pepper jack or queso blanco for a unique flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini or eggplant slices instead of tortillas for a lighter dish.
Breakfast Enchiladas: Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies for a delicious brunch twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the richness of the enchiladas.
Rice and Beans: Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
Drink Pairing: A cold cerveza or a refreshing margarita pairs perfectly.
Presentation: Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas and assemble them in the baking dish. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, black beans or lentils can replace the meat while still providing a hearty texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly!
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option! Just be sure to warm them slightly before filling to prevent cracking. They’ll add a lovely flavor and texture to your enchiladas.
What toppings can I add to my enchiladas?
The sky’s the limit! Besides sour cream and cilantro, consider adding diced avocados, sliced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for extra flavor. A drizzle of hot sauce can also kick things up a notch!
Final Thoughts
Cooking cheesy ground beef enchiladas is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The joy of gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring each bite is what makes this dish special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration, these enchiladas bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. Plus, the versatility allows you to make them your own, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. So roll up those tortillas, pour on the sauce, and enjoy the deliciousness that brings family and friends together. Trust me, this recipe will become a cherished favorite!
Delicious and cheesy ground beef enchiladas that are easy to make and loved by everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (15 ounces) enchilada sauce
8 small flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and add half of the enchilada sauce to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
Spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
To assemble the enchiladas, place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with a little cheese, then roll up and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Once all tortillas are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and chopped cilantro.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use black beans for a vegetarian version.
