Name: Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 8 flour or corn tortillas; 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Sour cream, for topping

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The comforting aroma of cheesy, saucy, beef-filled tortillas baking in the oven is something I can never resist. These ground beef enchiladas are hearty, flavorful, and the kind of dish that turns any evening into a cozy gathering. Each bite combines juicy seasoned beef, melted cheese, and rich enchilada sauce wrapped in warm tortillas—it’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to please.

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick and doesn’t require complicated steps, yet the result feels like a restaurant-worthy meal. I can easily prepare it on a weeknight, but it also works beautifully when I’m hosting guests. The flavors are bold and satisfying, and I like that I can adjust the spice level depending on my mood. These enchiladas are also versatile—I’ve swapped proteins and toppings before, and they still taste amazing.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb lean ground beef
8 flour or corn tortillas
2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Sour cream, for topping

Directions

I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef with diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions turn translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
I stir in the garlic, cumin, and chili powder, letting everything cook for another minute.
I spoon some of the beef mixture into each tortilla, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
I pour enchilada sauce over the tortillas, then sprinkle plenty of shredded cheese on top.
I bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, with each person enjoying two enchiladas. Prep time takes around 15 minutes, and bake time is about 25 minutes, so in under 40 minutes I have a warm, satisfying meal on the table.

Variations

I like swapping the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey when I want something lighter. Sometimes I add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. For spice lovers, jalapeños or hot sauce make a great addition. When I’m craving freshness, I top the finished dish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices.

storage/reheating

When I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer using the oven at 350°F until warmed through—it keeps the tortillas from getting soggy. If I’m in a hurry, the microwave works fine too, though I cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make ground beef enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the enchiladas earlier in the day, cover them, and refrigerate until I’m ready to bake. I just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

What can I substitute for ground beef in enchiladas?

I sometimes use shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.

How do I keep my enchiladas from getting soggy?

I make sure not to over-soak the tortillas in sauce before baking. Adding the sauce just on top works best for me.

Can I freeze enchiladas?

Yes, I freeze them before baking by wrapping the dish tightly. When I’m ready to cook, I bake them straight from the freezer, adding about 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

What toppings go well with ground beef enchiladas?

I love topping mine with sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or even pickled jalapeños for extra zing.

Conclusion

Making ground beef enchiladas always feels like a celebration in my kitchen. They’re warm, cheesy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner gathering, I know this recipe never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table.