Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious, comforting Mexican dish that features rolled tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, topped with a rich and flavorful enchilada sauce, and finished with melted cheese. This recipe combines savory ground beef with a medley of spices, resulting in a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, these enchiladas deliver a burst of flavor in every bite, making them a crowd favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this ground beef enchilada recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. The savory beef is seasoned with classic Mexican spices, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste. It’s an easy recipe to whip up on a busy weeknight, requiring minimal prep and cook time. Plus, it can easily fit into a family-friendly lifestyle, accommodating picky eaters while still satisfying those who appreciate bold flavors. The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a perfect candidate for meal prepping!
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your ground beef enchiladas, consider these useful tips and tricks:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the flavor of your filling and sauce.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Opt for a good quality cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
- Soften Tortillas: Briefly warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
- Layer the Sauce: Pour a bit of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish before placing the rolled tortillas to prevent sticking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making ground beef enchiladas, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the Beef: Cook the ground beef until just browned; overcooking can lead to a dry filling.
- Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolled; always warm them up first.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t be shy with your spices! Taste as you go to ensure your filling is flavorful.
- Skipping the Sauce: Ensure you generously coat the enchiladas with sauce before baking for added moisture and flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love to meal prep, here are some make-ahead tips:
- Prepare the Filling: You can cook and season the ground beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Assemble Ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas completely, cover them tightly with foil, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze them, assemble the enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Recipe Variations
This ground beef enchilada recipe can be customized in several ways:
- Protein Swaps: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with green enchilada sauce or mole for a different flavor profile.
- Cooking Methods: Try cooking them in an Instant Pot or slow cooker for a different approach to this classic dish.
How to Serve
To serve your ground beef enchiladas, place them on a large platter, drizzle with extra enchilada sauce, and top with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. Pair with a side of Mexican rice and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider serving these enchiladas with a refreshing margarita or a crisp, chilled Mexican lager. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a lime-infused sparkling water can complement the flavors beautifully. For side dishes, traditional Mexican rice and refried beans work wonderfully. If you have a sweet tooth, finish the meal with churros or tres leches cake.
How to Store
Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A large skillet for cooking the ground beef.
- A baking dish (9×13 inch) to assemble and bake the enchiladas.
- A spatula or wooden spoon for mixing and rolling.
- Aluminum foil to cover the dish while baking.
If you don’t have a baking dish, any oven-safe casserole dish can work just as well.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs:
- Vegan: Use plant-based ground meat and cheese alternatives.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free; just ensure any cheese or sauces used do not contain nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
To make the most of seasonal ingredients, consider:
- Spring: Use fresh asparagus or zucchini in the filling.
- Summer: Add fresh corn or diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a unique twist.
- Winter: Use hearty greens like kale or spinach in the filling for added nutrition.
Cost Breakdown
Here’s an estimated cost breakdown for the ingredients:
- Ground beef: $4.00
- Tortillas: $2.00
- Cheese: $3.00
- Enchilada sauce: $1.50
- Spices: $1.00
- Total cost: Approximately $11.50, serving 4 people, that’s about $2.88 per serving. For budget-friendly swaps, consider using more beans and less meat to reduce costs.
Kitchen Hacks
Here are a few kitchen hacks to streamline the process:
- Quick Chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop onions and garlic for the filling.
- Easier Cleanup: Line your baking dish with parchment paper to make cleaning up a breeze.
- Tortilla Warming: Instead of microwaving tortillas one at a time, wrap a stack in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds to warm them all at once.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef for the ground beef.
How long do I need to bake the enchiladas?
Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Can I make the sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade enchilada sauce can elevate the dish even more. Simply blend tomatoes, garlic, onion, chili powder, and cumin for a fresh sauce.
What can I do if my enchiladas are dry?
If they come out dry, make sure to cover them with foil while baking to retain moisture and add extra sauce on top before serving.
How To Make ground beef enchilada recipe
Ground Beef Enchilada
Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious, comforting Mexican dish that features rolled tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, topped with a rich and flavorful enchilada sauce, and finished with melted cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: sour cream, cilantro, or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine, then remove from heat.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
- To assemble, take a tortilla, add a spoonful of the beef mixture, and sprinkle with cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Once all tortillas are rolled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite garnishes.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 1443Total Fat 38gSaturated Fat 16gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 145mgSodium 629mgCarbohydrates 201gFiber 9gSugar 4gProtein 68g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef enchiladas are a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table. They are not only delicious but also incredibly adaptable, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So roll up those tortillas, dig into the rich flavors, and enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
