There is nothing quite like cozying up with a plate of warm, cheesy enchiladas, and this Beef Enchiladas Recipe is absolutely one of my all-time favorites. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered with rich red enchilada sauce, and topped with ooey-gooey melted cheese that brings it all together in every delicious bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, bursting with vibrant Mexican flavors yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re making these for a family gathering or a casual meal, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is easy because each one plays a key role in building those incredible layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine. From the savory ground beef to the bright enchilada sauce, every component is essential for that perfect balance.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty, savory base that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A little punch of savory warmth that wakes up the beef.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Brings bold, classic Mexican flavors with a well-balanced spice kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy, slightly smoky note that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce: The saucy, tangy, and spicy hug that envelopes the rolled tortillas.
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (optional): Offers a juicy burst and brightens the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts lavishly for that irresistible gooey topping.
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas: The soft, tender wraps that hold everything deliciously together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for enhancing all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish: A fresh, herbaceous finish that adds color and brightness.
How to Make Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion. Stir and break up the beef until it’s fully browned and the onions have softened, which usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes. This is where the magic begins because you’re layering flavors with every ingredient added.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Next, stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and ground cumin. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then mix in half of the enchilada sauce and the diced tomatoes if you’re using them. Let this mixture gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to marry those flavors together before removing it from the heat. This step ensures your filling is moist, flavorful, and ready to stuff.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Grab your tortillas and spoon about a quarter cup of the beef mixture onto the center of each one. Sprinkle each fill with a little shredded cheese for that extra richness, then roll them up tightly. Place each rolled tortilla seam side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish so they stay perfectly shaped during baking.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese, Then Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce generously over the tortillas, letting it seep into all the nooks and crannies. Then sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top for a luscious, bubbling finish. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and just starting to turn golden at the edges.
How to Serve Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can elevate your Beef Enchiladas Recipe to restaurant quality. Freshly chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and a bright herbal note that lightens the rich flavors and makes each bite feel fresh and vibrant.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like refried beans, Spanish rice, or a crisp, refreshing salad complement the enchiladas beautifully. The creamy beans and fluffy rice soak up any leftover sauce perfectly and help round out the meal, balancing the hearty, cheesy main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving individual enchiladas on warm plates topped with a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of fresh lime. You can also layer the filling and sauce in a casserole dish for a no-roll, family-style presentation that’s just as delicious and even easier to serve.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover beef enchiladas store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover them well so they stay moist and tasty, and you’ll have a quick, satisfying meal ready to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save them for longer, wrap individual enchiladas or the entire casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. This recipe is perfect for batch cooking and freezing, making future dinners a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the enchiladas covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions wrapped in a damp paper towel for a quick heat-up that keeps the tortillas soft and the cheese melty.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas will give your Beef Enchiladas Recipe a more traditional flavor and slightly firmer texture. Just make sure to warm them up first, so they’re pliable and won’t crack when you roll them.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! You can swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken, use reduced-fat cheese, and add veggies like black beans, corn, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare the enchiladas in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble them a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if you’re baking straight from the refrigerator.
What type of cheese works best?
A shredded Mexican cheese blend or sharp cheddar is perfect here. They melt well and add the fantastic cheesy flavor this recipe is known for. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little extra kick.
Can I add other fillings to the beef mixture?
For sure! Adding ingredients like black beans, corn, or even diced green chilies can add extra texture and flavor, making this Beef Enchiladas Recipe your own personalized creation.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Enchiladas Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and bold flavor to your table with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just wanting an inviting meal made from scratch, this recipe will quickly become a cherished go-to. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into the joy of making these cheesy, saucy enchiladas—you won’t regret it!
Print
Beef Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Beef Enchiladas are a classic Mexican-inspired dish featuring seasoned ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this recipe combines traditional flavors with simple preparation to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce and Assembly
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (optional)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the enchiladas.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the finely chopped onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is tender, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors thoroughly.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in half of the red enchilada sauce and the diced tomatoes if using. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove the pan from heat.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese, then roll up each tortilla tightly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the dish, arranging them evenly.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top to cover the enchiladas.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to warm through and allow flavors to blend.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the enchiladas before serving to add a fresh, herbal finish.
Notes
- Use corn tortillas for a more traditional Mexican flavor and texture.
- Flour tortillas offer a softer, more pliable alternative if preferred.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra heartiness and fiber.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and cumin to taste depending on spice preference.
