Name: Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce (plus extra for topping); 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 8 small flour tortillas; Chopped cilantro; Sour cream (optional)

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Get ready to fall in love with Beef Enchiladas, a weeknight winner that’s as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing! Picture tender tortillas stuffed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, two types of melty cheese, and drenched in a bold, smoky red enchilada sauce. There’s a reason this dish has earned its place on my regular rotation: it’s easy enough for busy nights, impressive enough for guests, and layered with craveable flavor from the first bite to the last.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing complicated here — only everyday ingredients working in perfect harmony to make your Beef Enchiladas shine. Each brings the right dose of flavor, texture, or gooey cheese pull to create a dish everyone will ask for again and again.

Ground beef: Adds hearty, savory richness and is the backbone of this filling.
Onion: Diced finely, it softens with the beef, bringing sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Minced to infuse the meat with irresistible aroma and warm flavor.
Red enchilada sauce: The soul of authentic Beef Enchiladas, bringing bold, zesty spice.
Chili powder: Kicks up the flavor with just the right hint of heat.
Ground cumin: Gives a nutty, earthy undertone that rounds out the spices.
Paprika: Offers gentle smokiness and a pop of color to every bite.
Salt and pepper: Essential basics for perfectly seasoned filling.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding sharp, gooey goodness.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Mild, creamy, and perfect for stretching cheese pulls.
Flour tortillas: Encase the beef mixture and bake up soft and warm.
Chopped cilantro and sour cream (optional): Fresh and tangy finishing touches for serving.

How to Make Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take out a 9×13-inch baking dish, give it a light spritz or brush of oil, and set it aside. A properly greased dish makes it an absolute breeze to serve those piping hot Beef Enchiladas later, without any sticky mishaps.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

This is where the magic begins! In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef and diced onion. Let them cook together, stirring and breaking up the meat for about 6–8 minutes, until the beef is browned and the onions are irresistibly soft. Drain off any extra fat to keep things from getting greasy — you want that flavor, not the extra oil.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce

Sprinkle in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together for a fragrant wave of Mexican-inspired goodness. Pour in about 3/4 cup of your enchilada sauce, then let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. This step allows the beef to soak up every bit of flavor, so your Beef Enchiladas will never taste bland.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese

Remove the pan from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of cheddar and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. The cheese starts to melt, binding everything together and adding that undeniable creamy richness that sets these enchiladas apart.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the center of each flour tortilla, rolling them up snugly. Place each one seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Lining them up keeps them tight and helps them hold their shape once baked — trust me, you’ll love how easy they are to serve!

Step 6: Top and Bake

Pour the rest of your enchilada sauce over the stuffed tortillas, spreading it so every inch is covered. Sprinkle on the remaining cheese for that irresistible golden finish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; then, remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Give your Beef Enchiladas a few minutes to cool once out of the oven. This brief rest helps them hold together for perfect slices. Top with a shower of fresh cilantro and a generous dollop of sour cream, then dive in!

How to Serve Beef Enchiladas

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh, chopped cilantro instantly brightens the whole dish, and a dollop of cool, creamy sour cream balances the spices beautifully. If you’re feeling extra fancy, add sliced ripe avocado, diced red onion, or a quick squeeze of lime for another layer of flavor in every bite.

Side Dishes

Beef Enchiladas make an unforgettable centerpiece, but a few sides can turn dinnertime into a true fiesta. Try classic Spanish rice, a quick black bean salad, or even crisp shredded lettuce with pico de gallo for a fresh crunch. Don’t forget a bowl of tortilla chips and salsa for snacking while you wait!

Creative Ways to Present

To impress, serve individual portions of Beef Enchiladas on colorful plates, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges. Or, try baking in mini skillets for a rustic, restaurant-style feel. For family gatherings, create a topping bar with shredded lettuce, jalapenos, diced tomatoes, and olives so everyone can customize their perfect plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Beef Enchiladas (lucky you!), let them cool completely before covering the baking dish tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as they mingle together!

Freezing

Beef Enchiladas freeze like a dream. Assemble the enchiladas as usual, cover well (plastic wrap and foil work perfectly), and freeze before baking. They’ll be ready whenever you need a low-effort meal. When it’s time, bake straight from frozen, adding a little extra time—or thaw overnight for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place your enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. For quicker leftovers, single portions microwave beautifully too! Add a splash of extra sauce if you want to keep things saucy and moist.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas have a slightly different texture and a classic flavor. If you use them, try warming them first so they’re less likely to crack when rolling—your Beef Enchiladas will still be deliciously authentic.

What’s the best way to avoid soggy enchiladas?

Don’t overdo the sauce inside the tortillas and be sure not to crowd them too tightly in the dish. Baking uncovered for the last few minutes gives you that irresistible cheesy top and prevents sogginess!

Can I make Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate before baking. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven. This trick lets you get a jump on dinner or prep for a party stress-free.

How can I make these spicier or milder?

For more heat, add diced jalapenos, a pinch of cayenne, or a spicy enchilada sauce. For a milder version, simply use less chili powder or opt for a mild sauce—everyone can enjoy Beef Enchiladas their own way!

Can I add veggies or beans to the filling?

Definitely! Stir in black beans, corn, or even finely diced bell peppers for extra flavor, color, and nutrition. These additions play well with the beef and make your enchiladas even heartier.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special joy in sitting down to a bubbling tray of homemade Beef Enchiladas—the colors, aromas, and flavors always bring people together. If you’re searching for a memorable, foolproof dinner, give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite at your table!

Beef Enchiladas Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 10 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (2 enchiladas per serving) 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 seasoned with spices, wrapped in tortillas, smothered in enchilada sauce, and baked to cheesy perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Filling:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce (plus extra for topping)
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Assembly:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
8 small flour tortillas

For Garnish:

Chopped cilantro
Sour cream (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion. Add garlic, spices, and enchilada sauce. Simmer.
Prepare the filling: Remove from heat and stir in cheeses.
Assemble: Spoon beef mixture into tortillas, roll up, and place in baking dish. Top with remaining sauce and cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with cilantro and sour cream, if desired, and enjoy!