These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a fun and tasty dish! With seasoned beef wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in gooey cheese, they’re sure to please everyone!
What I love most is how simple they are to make. Just fill, roll, and bake! Plus, they’re perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests. Everyone loves a cheesy treat! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: It’s the star of this dish! You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using black beans or lentils.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work great for a soft and chewy texture. If you prefer something gluten-free, corn tortillas are a delicious alternative. Just make sure to warm them so they don’t crack when you roll them.
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but homemade sauce can really elevate your enchiladas. You could also use salsa for a different flavor profile. Mild, medium, or spicy—choose based on your taste!
Cheese: A Mexican blend is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully. If you want a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese substitutes that melt well.
How Do I Get My Enchiladas Rolled Up Right?
Rolling enchiladas can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it. After warming the tortillas, they become more pliable and easier to handle.
- Spoon the beef mixture into the middle of the tortilla, avoiding the edges.
- Add a little cheese on top of the beef for extra flavor.
- Fold in the sides and then roll from the bottom to the top tightly.
- Place the seam-side down in your baking dish to keep them closed.
With a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it in no time!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
For the Enchiladas:
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 flour or corn tortillas (6-8 inch size)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Cooking oil (1-2 tbsp)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes for prep and cooking. Baking takes another 20-25 minutes. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your delicious enchiladas in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when your enchiladas are assembled!
2. Cook the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it out. Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce. If the mixture seems a little dry, you can add a splash of water. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is mixed and heated through. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas:
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Warm your tortillas for about 20-30 seconds in the microwave or in a skillet so they’re easier to roll.
Take one tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into the center. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom, folding in the sides as you go. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish.
4. Bake Your Enchiladas:
Once all tortillas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the leftover cheese generously on top of the sauce.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take your enchiladas out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, topped with sour cream and chopped cilantro if you like! Enjoy your Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I Make These Enchiladas Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the enchiladas ahead of time. Just cover the assembled dish with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time if they are going in the oven cold.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of black beans and lentils work well in this recipe. For beefy flavor without meat, try using mushrooms or textured vegetable protein (TVP) seasoned with taco spices!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of enchilada sauce before reheating for extra moisture!
Can I Freeze the Enchiladas?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked enchiladas. Just assemble them in a freezer-safe dish with the enchilada sauce and cheese on top, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding extra time as needed until they’re heated through and bubbly.
