Name: Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 8 flour or corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish

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If you’re searching for an irresistibly hearty, flavor-packed dinner that’s sure to win over friends and family, Beef Enchiladas are the answer. This beloved Mexican-inspired dish wraps tender, perfectly seasoned ground beef in warm tortillas, nestling them in rich red enchilada sauce and tons of melty cheese. It’s pure comfort and celebration in every bite, whether served at a cozy family dinner or a lively get-together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Beef Enchiladas comes from its straightforward, familiar ingredients that work together to deliver bold flavor and irresistible texture. Each one brings something special to the party: rich beef, aromatic spices, and gooey cheese—all tied together with vibrant sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this classic at home:

Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 for the right balance of juiciness and flavor.
Olive oil: Helps sauté the onions, bringing out sweetness and depth.
Onion (diced): Adds aromatics and a gentle crunch that melds into the savory beef mixture.
Garlic (minced): Gives those unmistakable warm, bold base flavors.
Diced green chilies (canned): Lend a mild heat and southwestern flair.
Chili powder: The heart of classic enchilada seasoning—don’t skip it!
Ground cumin: Layers in earthy, smoky complexity.
Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness that complements the beef beautifully.
Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and spice.
Flour or corn tortillas: Choose your favorite; corn is classic, but flour gets extra soft and flexible.
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts into a gorgeous, golden, bubbly top layer.
Red enchilada sauce: The saucy heart of the dish—use homemade or a good-quality store-bought version.
Fresh chopped cilantro: A finishing pop of color and garden-fresh flavor.

How to Make Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in half a cup of enchilada sauce, swirling to coat the bottom. This saucy bed prevents sticking and infuses those first bites with mouthwatering flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion and cook for three to four minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about thirty seconds—your kitchen will already smell amazing.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef directly into the skillet, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. Let it brown evenly for about six to eight minutes until no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat if needed; this keeps your Beef Enchiladas from getting greasy.

Step 4: Season and Stir

Sprinkle in the diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to make sure the beef soaks up all those robust flavors. Sauté the mixture for another two minutes, then remove from heat—you’re ready to assemble!

Step 5: Assemble the Beef Enchiladas

Ladle about a quarter cup of the beef filling across the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with a touch of shredded cheese. Roll each one up snugly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat until all the filling and tortillas are used—they should fit cozily in the pan like a savory puzzle.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the rest of the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure every bit is nicely coated. Sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top for that signature oozy, golden effect.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for twenty minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional ten minutes until the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbling, and irresistibly golden. Let the Beef Enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking so they set up just right.

How to Serve Beef Enchiladas

Garnishes

Nothing completes Beef Enchiladas quite like the right garnish! Scattering freshly chopped cilantro over the hot, cheesy surface wakes up the flavors and adds that signature pop of color. For extra indulgence, finish with a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa, or slices of creamy avocado.

Side Dishes

Bring the full Tex-Mex experience to your table by pairing your Beef Enchiladas with classic sides. A mound of cilantro-lime rice, scoops of refried beans, or crunchy chips with homemade guacamole all complement the main dish. Even a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your Beef Enchiladas extra special, try serving them family-style straight from the baking dish at the table—it’s inviting and perfect for sharing. Alternatively, plate them individually, topped with colorful garnishes, or slice them into smaller portions for a festive appetizer platter at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftover Beef Enchiladas? Lucky you! Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors develop even more overnight, so the next-day leftovers are incredibly delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the enchiladas and cover tightly (before baking), then freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed—dinner prep made effortless!

Reheating

For best results, reheat Beef Enchiladas in a covered baking dish at 350°F until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover with a damp paper towel to keep the tortillas soft and prevent drying.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas are traditional for Beef Enchiladas and offer a slightly different texture and flavor. Warm them before rolling to prevent tearing, or blend flour and corn tortillas for variety.

How spicy are these enchiladas?

These Beef Enchiladas are generally mild, as the green chilies and chili powder bring gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. For more kick, choose a spicier enchilada sauce or add chopped jalapeños to the filling.

What cheese works best for enchiladas?

A Mexican blend cheese melts beautifully and offers a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and more. Cheddar works well on its own too; for a stretchier, more authentic finish, mix in some Oaxaca or mozzarella.

Can I add beans or corn to the filling?

Yes! Black beans or sweet corn make fantastic mix-ins, adding extra flavor, texture, and nutrition. Just fold them in with the beef after browning and seasoning.

Can I make Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble everything and refrigerate, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes Beef Enchiladas a terrific option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something deeply satisfying about pulling a hot, bubbling pan of Beef Enchiladas from the oven—it’s comfort and joy in one irresistible meal. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend or two, and give this recipe a try. Your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you!

Beef Enchiladas Recipe

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4.7 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Beef Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Flavorful ground beef, warm spices, and gooey cheese wrapped in tortillas and baked to perfection, topped with enchilada sauce and fresh cilantro.

Ingredients

Scale

For the beef filling:

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For assembly:

8 flour or corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
2 cups red enchilada sauce
Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook. Add ground beef, breaking it apart and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Add green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Assemble the enchiladas: Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each tortilla with beef mixture and cheese, roll up, and place seam-side down in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas, top with cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.