Ground Beef Enchiladas

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a cheesy, saucy, and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish that comes together in under an hour. Made with seasoned ground beef, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and plenty of cheese, this family favorite is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Top them with your favorite taco fixings for a customizable and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser because they’re simple to make yet full of bold flavor. The seasoned beef is wrapped in tortillas, smothered with rich enchilada sauce, and baked with loads of cheese until golden and bubbly. They’re freezer-friendly, perfect for make-ahead meals, and versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste with customizable toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• White onion

• Taco seasoning

• Water

• Soft taco-size tortillas (flour or corn)

• Enchilada sauce

• Marbled cheddar cheese, shredded

Optional toppings: sour cream, pico de gallo, diced avocado, diced green onions

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

3. Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir until combined and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.

4. Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

5. Place about ⅓ cup of beef mixture and ¼ cup cheese down the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

6. If any beef mixture remains, sprinkle it over the top.

7. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over tortillas, spreading to cover completely. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove from oven, top with your favorite garnishes, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 enchiladas and serves about 8 people. Total time is approximately 50 minutes, including prep and baking.

Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian version.

• Try green enchilada sauce instead of red for a tangy twist.

• Add sautéed peppers, corn, or black beans to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

• Mix up the cheese with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.

• Drizzle with hot sauce or salsa verde for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick option. To freeze, prepare enchiladas but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 40–45 minutes covered, then uncover and bake 5 minutes more.

FAQs

Can I use flour or corn tortillas?

Yes. Flour tortillas are softer, while corn tortillas hold up better in the sauce. You can also use a blend if available.

Do I put enchilada sauce inside the tortillas?

No. The sauce goes on top of the tortillas to avoid soggy enchiladas.

Can I make enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble them, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What toppings go best with enchiladas?

Sour cream, avocado, pico de gallo, salsa, green onions, or shredded lettuce are great options.

Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Yes. Freeze before baking for up to 3 months, then bake directly from frozen.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or spicy enchilada sauce.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend melts beautifully too.

How do I keep tortillas from tearing?

Warm them briefly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable before rolling.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, but homemade seasoning allows you to adjust salt and spice to your liking.

What can I serve with enchiladas?

Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or grilled corn make great side dishes.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a go-to weeknight dinner packed with flavor and comfort. With seasoned beef, melty cheese, and rich enchilada sauce, they deliver everything you love about Tex-Mex cooking in one dish. Whether you make them fresh or freeze ahead for later, these enchiladas will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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