Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a plate of homemade ground beef enchiladas fresh out of the oven. The combination of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a rich enchilada sauce wrapped in warm corn tortillas is simply irresistible. Whether you choose red or green sauce, each bite is packed with bold, satisfying flavors that transport you straight to a cozy family dinner.

These enchiladas are incredibly versatile add black beans or corn for extra texture, spice them up with jalapeños, or top them with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. They’re the perfect weeknight dinner, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household. Serve them with rice, guacamole, or a crisp side salad for a well-rounded, delicious meal!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen, optional)

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and/or Monterey Jack)

• 8-10 corn tortillas

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for cooking

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. If using black beans and corn, add them in and mix well. Remove from heat.

5. Lightly coat the bottom of a baking dish with enchilada sauce.

6. Lay out a tortilla, spoon in the beef mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat for all tortillas.

7. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with extra cheese.

8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings

Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas – A Flavorful and Comforting Meal

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can match the heartwarming appeal of enchiladas. Originating from Mexico, this beloved dish has found its way into kitchens worldwide, becoming a favorite among families who enjoy bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and satisfying textures. These Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both rich in flavor and easy to prepare.

The Origins of Enchiladas

Enchiladas date back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where corn tortillas were a staple food. Early versions of enchiladas were much simpler corn tortillas dipped in chili sauce and eaten with minimal fillings. Over time, as the dish evolved with Spanish influence, ingredients like meat, cheese, and various sauces were incorporated, transforming enchiladas into the flavorful dish we know today. Today, enchiladas are enjoyed in a variety of ways, with fillings ranging from chicken and beef to beans and vegetables, all smothered in a delicious sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.

• Customizable: While this version features ground beef, you can easily swap in chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative.

• Rich and Savory: A perfect balance of spices, melted cheese, and a tangy enchilada sauce makes every bite irresistible.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Enchiladas store well and taste even better the next day, making them a great option for leftovers.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The beauty of enchiladas lies in the quality and combination of ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep the dish flavorful without excess grease. If you prefer a healthier alternative, ground turkey or shredded chicken works just as well.

• Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditionally used in enchiladas because they hold up well to the sauce. If you prefer a softer texture, flour tortillas are also a great choice.

• Enchilada Sauce: A high quality enchilada sauce is key to achieving deep, rich flavors. You can use store-bought sauce for convenience or make your own at home using tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic, and a touch of cumin.

• Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates a gooey, melty topping. Feel free to experiment with queso fresco or a spicier pepper jack for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

To complete your enchilada meal, consider pairing it with some traditional Mexican-inspired sides:

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice makes the perfect complement to enchiladas, soaking up any extra sauce.

• Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, refried beans add extra protein and richness to your plate.

• Guacamole and Salsa: A fresh, zesty salsa or a creamy guacamole can lighten up the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the cheesy enchiladas.

• Sour Cream and Fresh Herbs: A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions add a cool, tangy finish.

Tips for Making the Best Enchiladas

• Warm the Tortillas: Before filling and rolling, lightly heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. This makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking.

• Don’t Overfill: While it may be tempting to stuff each tortilla with a generous amount of beef and cheese, too much filling can make the enchiladas difficult to roll and prone to breaking apart.

• Layer the Sauce Evenly: Coat the bottom of your baking dish with a thin layer of enchilada sauce before adding the rolled tortillas. This helps prevent sticking and ensures every bite is full of flavor.

• Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps the enchiladas absorb moisture and become tender. Removing the foil towards the end allows the cheese to brown and bubble to perfection.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the best things about enchiladas is that they taste just as good (if not better) the next day! If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: If you want to freeze them, place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish in plastic wrap and foil. Enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Enchiladas: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

• Creamy Enchiladas: Mix a bit of sour cream or cream cheese into the filling for a richer, creamier texture.

• Vegetarian Enchiladas: Replace the beef with black beans, mushrooms, or a mix of roasted vegetables for a meat-free version.

• Green Enchiladas: Swap the red enchilada sauce for a green tomatillo-based sauce for a tangy twist.

Why These Enchiladas Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a solo meal prep session, these Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a fantastic choice. They offer a balance of indulgence and nourishment, with protein packed beef, hearty tortillas, and a generous amount of cheese. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize the ingredients make them a go-to meal for both novice and experienced home cooks.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that delivers on both flavor and comfort, these Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are the perfect choice. With their rich history, versatility, and ease of preparation, they are a staple that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you enjoy them as a weeknight meal or serve them for a special occasion, their satisfying taste and hearty ingredients will surely make them a favorite in your kitchen.