There's nothing quite like the rich, savory aroma of Ground Beef Enchiladas bubbling away in the oven. This classic Mexican-inspired dish features tender tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, smothered in a flavorful enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese.
I discovered this recipe while searching for a quick and satisfying dinner idea, and it’s been a staple in my home ever since. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, these enchiladas deliver big flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and see why this recipe is a must-try for your dinner rotation.
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to dinner recipe. These Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious, hearty meal that hits all the right notes.
First, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dish in under an hour. Plus, the recipe is beginner-friendly, with simple steps that even first-time cooks can master.
Second, the flavors are unbeatable. The combination of perfectly seasoned beef, tangy enchilada sauce, and melty cheese is a crowd-pleaser every time. Serve them with a side of rice or a crisp salad, and you've got a well-rounded meal.
This recipe is also highly customizable. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or need a gluten-free option, there are endless ways to make these enchiladas your own.
Finally, these enchiladas are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time, and you'll have dinner ready to reheat and serve on those busy nights.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Ground Beef Enchiladas comes from the balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what makes each one special:
- Ground Beef: Go for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Tortillas: Soft flour or corn tortillas work perfectly. Corn tortillas give a more authentic flavor, while flour tortillas hold up well during baking.
- Enchilada Sauce: A good-quality enchilada sauce makes all the difference. Opt for a store-bought option to save time, or make your own for a personalized touch.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy finish. A Mexican blend is another fantastic option.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder add warmth and depth to the beef filling.
For equipment, you'll need a large skillet, a baking dish, and aluminum foil to cover the enchiladas while baking.
How to Make This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Making these enchiladas is straightforward, and the results are always worth it. Here's how to create this comforting dish step by step.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the spices and a small portion of the enchilada sauce to coat the meat in flavor.
Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable, either in the microwave or on a hot skillet. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, then roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Once all the tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top, ensuring every tortilla is covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the sauce.
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.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, these Ground Beef Enchiladas store beautifully. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For reheating, keep them covered with foil to prevent drying out and ensure even heating.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to experiment and adapt it to your preferences.
- Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or a mix of sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Sauce Options: Use a green enchilada sauce or even a smoky chipotle sauce for a fun twist.
- Low-Carb: Opt for low-carb tortillas or wrap the filling in large cabbage leaves for a lighter version.
- Cheese Substitutes: For a dairy-free option, use your favorite vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
The best part about this recipe is its flexibility. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
These Ground Beef Enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your household. With their comforting flavors and endless adaptability, they're perfect for any occasion. Give them a try, and let the irresistible aroma fill your kitchen tonight!
PrintGround Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Ground Beef Enchiladas are a classic Mexican-inspired dish filled with seasoned beef, smothered in enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 1 ½ cups enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a baking dish.
- Spoon beef mixture onto tortillas, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas, and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream and cilantro.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped green chilies or black beans to the beef mixture.
- Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the chili powder or adding hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
Leave a Reply