These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a tasty treat! Made with soft tortillas, seasoned beef, and lots of melty cheese, they make dinner a breeze.
You’ll love how simple they are to whip up. I always make extra so I can enjoy leftovers for lunch. Who can resist a warm, cheesy bite? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef to keep things a bit healthier, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Plant-based substitutes like lentils or tofu also work well if you’re looking for a vegetarian choice!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add great flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder or onion powder can be substituted, but the fresh versions really make a difference.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is easy, but homemade is tastier! Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt if you prefer to make your own seasoning mix.
Tortillas: I love using flour tortillas for their softness, but corn tortillas are a gluten-free option. Just steam them slightly to keep them from cracking when rolling.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but I often mix in Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Feel free to use whatever type of cheese you love!
How Do You Get Perfectly Rolled Enchiladas?
Rolling enchiladas can be tricky if you’re new to it! Here’s how to make it easier:
- Warm your tortillas briefly in the microwave or on a skillet so they’re pliable and won’t crack.
- Don’t overfill! About 1/4 cup of the beef mixture is enough. It keeps everything neat and tight.
- Start from one end, fold over the filling, and roll tightly towards the other end. Place the seam side down in your baking dish to hold it together.
Practice a few times, and soon you’ll be rolling like a pro!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (mild or medium)
- 8 flour or corn tortillas (6-8 inch size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take you about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to bake. So, in about 35 minutes, you will have these delicious enchiladas ready to serve! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make it ready for the enchiladas when you’re done assembling them.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they soften and become fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Season the Beef:
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and about 1/4 cup of water. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. This prevents the enchiladas from sticking to the pan.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
To make them easier to roll, warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or on a skillet for a minute.
7. Assemble the Enchiladas:
Take each tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into the center. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese on top, then roll it up tightly. Place each rolled tortilla seam side down in the baking dish.
8. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once all the tortillas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the sauce.
9. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Add a dollop of sour cream on the side for a delicious touch!
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy ground beef enchiladas!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian dish, try substituting with black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu seasoned with taco spices.
How Do I Store Leftover Enchiladas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh and maintain the texture, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make These Enchiladas Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to bake time if they are cold from the fridge!
What Can I Use Instead of Enchilada Sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use taco sauce, salsa, or make a quick homemade version with crushed tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Just adjust the spice level to your preference!