Ground Beef Enchiladas

My culinary journey often resembles a chaotic, delicious explosion, but even I, the self-proclaimed Queen of Kitchen Chaos, must admit, these Ground Beef Enchiladas are a masterpiece. Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, soft corn tortillas, embracing a savory ground beef filling bursting with flavor, all swaddled in a rich, tangy tomato sauce.

The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a cozy kitchen, filled with laughter and the comforting warmth of family. This recipe is my go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a quiet night in—it’s that good.

These Ground Beef Enchiladas boast:

Simple preparation making them perfect for a weeknight meal.

A vibrant, complex flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.

Stunning visual appeal, guaranteed to impress your guests.

Unparalleled versatility—easily customizable to your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option; 1 pound should be perfect.

Corn Tortillas Opt for soft corn tortillas for easy rolling and a traditional enchilada experience.

Onion One medium yellow onion, finely chopped, adds a touch of sweetness and pungency.

Garlic Two cloves of garlic, minced, lend their aromatic punch to the beef mixture.

Canned Diced Tomatoes Use 28 ounces of quality canned diced tomatoes, undrained, for the perfect sauce consistency.

Tomato Paste A couple of tablespoons of tomato paste intensifies the rich tomato flavor in the sauce.

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the sodium content in check and enhance the flavor of the filling.

Chili Powder One to two tablespoons of chili powder depending on your spice preference adds a warm, earthy heat to the dish.

Cumin A teaspoon of cumin adds another layer of warm, earthy flavor that complements the chili powder beautifully.

Oregano A teaspoon of dried oregano provides a fragrant, slightly peppery note.

Enchilada Sauce While you can make your own, store-bought enchilada sauce saves time and works just as well!

Monterey Jack Cheese Shredded Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.

Olive Oil A couple of tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables.

Salt and Pepper Season to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preparing the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Simmering the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assembling the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Fill each corn tortilla with approximately 1/4 cup of the beef mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully coated. Sprinkle generously with shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are heated through.

Step 5: The Grand Finale

Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cheese if desired and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if using.

Step 6: Serving Suggestions

Serve these Ground Beef Enchiladas hot, straight from the oven. They are delicious on their own, or alongside a simple side salad for a complete meal.

These Ground Beef Enchiladas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I guarantee you will become the new star of your next dinner party. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Brown the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon. While the meat simmers, prepare the enchilada sauce and assemble the filling. Finally, bake until bubbly and golden brown, checking for doneness.

Add Your Touch

Spice things up with a dash of your favorite chili powder or cumin. Consider swapping in different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack. Adding sautéed onions and peppers to the filling creates extra deliciousness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Brown the ground beef completely; undercooked beef is a no-no.

Don’t overfill the enchiladas; they’ll burst during baking.

Use a good quality enchilada sauce for the best flavor.

I remember the first time I made these Ground Beef Enchiladas for my family. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured them! It was a total success.

The Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

: A Culinary Adventure

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into the delightful world of Ground Beef Enchiladas! This recipe is designed for even the most kitchen-challenged among us. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Getting Started

: Gathering Your Ingredients

First, let’s assemble our culinary arsenal. You’ll need:

One pound of ground beef, lean or regular, your choice! I prefer lean for a lighter dish but it really comes down to personal preference.

One large onion, finely chopped. Think of it as the orchestra leader of our flavor symphony.

Two cloves garlic, minced. The secret ingredient that elevates the savory profile.

One (10 ounce) can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel is a favorite!), undrained. The fiery tango partner.

One (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce. The smooth, rich base of our delicious enchilada sauce.

One (4 ounce) can of chopped green chilies. This adds some welcome heat.

One teaspoon of chili powder. You can always adjust this to your spice preference. More is more, right?

One teaspoon of cumin. This adds a warm, earthy note, a crucial component of a perfect enchilada sauce.

One-half teaspoon of oregano. A little herbal touch for elegance and depth of flavor.

Salt and pepper to taste. Essential to any good dish.

One (10 ounce) package of corn tortillas. Classic and reliable.

Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese. The glorious, melty topping.

Crafting the Enchilada Sauce

This is where the magic happens. In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Simmer this mixture over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure that all the spices meld harmoniously. Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste it along the way. It should be rich, savory, and slightly spicy – adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Preparing the Filling

: A Symphony of Flavors

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion softens, about 5 minutes. Stir in half of the enchilada sauce and let the flavors mingle and meld.

Assembling the Enchiladas

: A Work of Art

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This is important for easy cleanup later and for preventing sticking. Now, for the assembly:

Take each corn tortilla and fill it with a spoonful of the beef mixture. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process until you’ve used all the tortillas.

Baking to Perfection

: The Grand Finale

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring each enchilada gets a generous coating. Sprinkle generously with the shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is lightly browned. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Ground Beef Enchiladas

: Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas immediately. They are best served hot, fresh from the oven. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if desired. A simple side salad or some Mexican rice would complement this dish perfectly.

Troubleshooting

: Common Issues and Solutions

Remember, even experienced cooks sometimes stumble. Here are a few helpful tips to avoid common issues:

If your enchiladas are dry, add a bit more sauce during baking.

Tortillas breaking? Warm them slightly before filling.

Want a richer flavor? Use homemade enchilada sauce!

This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste. Experiment with different cheeses, spices, or add vegetables for a unique twist each time! Get creative and have fun with it! These enchiladas are a delicious crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Conclusion for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Making these Ground Beef Enchiladas is a fun, rewarding experience, even for beginners. The recipe is adaptable to your taste preferences, whether you prefer mild or spicy flavors, different cheeses, or even vegetarian options. Remember to assemble them carefully for even cooking, and don’t be shy with the cheese! These Enchiladas are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, guaranteed to impress your friends and family with their delicious, comforting flavors. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating these amazing Ground Beef Enchiladas!

Print

FAQs

Can I make these Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Ground Beef Enchiladas are even better the next day. You can assemble them completely and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through. This is perfect for meal prepping or entertaining – less stress, more deliciousness! Pro-tip: If you’re baking them later, don’t add the cheese topping until just before baking to avoid a soggy mess.

What kind of cheese works best for Ground Beef Enchiladas?

Oh, the cheese conundrum! Monterey Jack is a classic choice for its mild flavor and melty texture. Cheddar works well too, adding a sharper bite. For a richer flavor, try a blend of Mexican cheeses like Queso Oaxaca or Queso Asadero. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect cheesy match for your Ground Beef Enchiladas!

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for these Ground Beef Enchiladas?

While the name suggests beef, you can definitely adapt this recipe! Swap the ground beef for a hearty vegetarian substitute like lentils, mushrooms, or even a blend of black beans and corn for a delicious vegetarian version of Ground Beef Enchiladas. Just ensure that you adequately season the filling to compensate for the absence of the beef flavor.

How can I make my Ground Beef Enchiladas spicier?

If you prefer some heat with your Ground Beef Enchiladas, there are many ways to spice things up! Add a diced jalapeño or two to the beef filling, or a pinch of your favorite chili powder. For a smoky kick, try chipotle powder. You can also adjust the amount of your favorite hot sauce once your Ground Beef Enchiladas are ready! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your ideal level of delicious fiery goodness.