Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a delicious and hearty meal with these Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas. Perfect for weeknight dinners, these enchiladas are packed with flavor and topped with gooey cheese.
This recipe for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas is a family favorite. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and warm tortillas creates a comforting dish that everyone loves. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, cheesy flavor that satisfies every craving
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
A Flavorful Classic
Enchiladas are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their versatility and rich flavors. These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas capture the essence of traditional recipes while being simple enough for a weeknight meal. The combination of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese creates a satisfying dish that will delight everyone at the table.
The beauty of enchiladas lies in their adaptability. You can easily modify the filling to suit your taste preferences, whether that means using shredded chicken, beans, or even vegetables. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to experiment and make it your own. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a dish that works well for meal prep, these Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are an excellent choice. You can make a large batch ahead of time and freeze them for later. Just assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
This dish is not only convenient for busy weeks but also reheats beautifully. Whether you’re preparing lunch for work or a comforting dinner after a long day, these enchiladas will remain flavorful and cheesy, making them a go-to option for any time of year.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these enchiladas, the options are endless. Pair them with a refreshing side salad or some classic Mexican rice to make a complete meal. You can also serve them with a side of refried beans for a heartier option. The creamy texture of the beans balances perfectly with the cheesy enchiladas.
Don't forget the toppings! Elevate your enchiladas with a dollop of sour cream, fresh chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for some added heat. These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful presentation to your dish, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for an easier prep experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Add Seasonings
Stir in the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Tortillas
In a separate pan, lightly heat the tortillas until they are soft and pliable.
Fill and Roll Tortillas
Place a few spoonfuls of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese in each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
Tips for the Best Enchiladas
For the best results, choose high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content to ensure juicy fillings. Leaner cuts can make the enchiladas dry, so aim for an 80/20 blend for optimal flavor and moisture. Additionally, don’t skimp on the cheese! A generous layer of cheese on top will create that deliciously gooey texture that enchiladas are known for.
Consider warming the tortillas in a skillet before filling them. This prevents them from tearing and makes them easier to roll. If you're feeling adventurous, try frying the tortillas lightly in oil for added flavor and a crispy texture before filling them.
Variations to Try
While this recipe uses ground beef, feel free to switch things up! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives that provide a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for a mild, creamy addition.
For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with black beans, corn, or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add fresh spinach or kale for a nutritious boost. With these variations, you can create a delicious meal that caters to your dietary preferences while still being incredibly satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
→ Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time and bake them when you're ready to eat.
→ What type of cheese is best for enchiladas?
Mexican blend or cheddar cheese works great for enchiladas. Feel free to mix different cheeses!
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Enjoy a delicious and hearty meal with these Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas. Perfect for weeknight dinners, these enchiladas are packed with flavor and topped with gooey cheese.
Created by: Bethany Clarke
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Enchiladas
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
In a separate pan, lightly heat the tortillas until they are soft and pliable.
Place a few spoonfuls of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese in each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g