These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are perfect for a cozy dinner! Filled with tasty beef, cheese, and wrapped in soft tortillas, they’re both filling and delicious.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness bubbling on top? I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro—yum!
Making these enchiladas is a breeze! Just cook the beef, roll it up with cheese, and bake. Easy peasy and a crowd-pleaser every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for less fat or swap it for turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using black beans or lentils instead.
Enchilada Sauce: A can of red enchilada sauce makes it easy! If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade sauce with tomatoes, chili powder, and spices is a tasty alternative. For a milder flavor, look for green enchilada sauce.
Cheese: I love using cheddar for its sharp flavor. You can mix in Monterey Jack or queso blanco for a creamier texture. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese or skip it altogether for a lighter filling.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll, but corn tortillas add authentic flavor. If gluten-free, ensure your corn tortillas are labeled gluten-free for safe eating!
How Do I Properly Assemble My Enchiladas?
Assembling enchiladas can feel tricky, but with a little practice, it’s simple! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, heat the tortillas a bit. This makes them easier to roll without tearing. A microwave works great if you wrap them in a damp paper towel.
- Next, spoon a good amount of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Roll them up tightly, making sure to tuck the filling in as you go. Place them seam-side down in the baking dish to keep them secure!
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully assembled enchiladas ready to get topped and baked! Enjoy the cooking process!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tortillas:
- 8 flour or corn tortillas (6-inch)
For the Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
- Sliced jalapeños (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, making a total of about 40 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything until the beef is nice and browned, and the onions are soft—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any extra fat from the pan.
3. Add Flavor:
To your skillet, mix in the enchilada sauce, optional diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 3-5 minutes so all the flavors come together. Yum!
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spread a small amount of the enchilada sauce mixture at the bottom of the greased baking dish. This step keeps the tortillas from sticking.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
Gently warm your tortillas to make them easier to roll. A quick 20-30 seconds in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel does the trick!
6. Assemble the Enchiladas:
Take each tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto the center. Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese, then carefully roll it up tightly. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish.
7. Top with Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over all the rolled tortillas. Don’t forget to sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top to make it extra cheesy!
8. Bake:
Now, pop the dish in the oven without covering it. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is all gooey and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top if you’d like. Serve with sour cream and jalapeño slices on the side for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy ground beef enchiladas!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Enchilada Sauce?
No problem! You can use salsa or even make a simple homemade sauce with crushed tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin as a replacement. Just season to your taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of water before microwaving for moisture!
Can I Freeze Enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze them! Before baking, wrap the assembled enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just remove from the freezer and bake from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
