Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser that combines savory beef, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or planning a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Ground Beef Enchiladas appeal to both kids and adults, making them perfect for family dinners.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Leftover Friendly: These enchiladas taste even better the next day, perfect for meal prepping!
• Satisfying and Hearty: Packed with protein and flavor, this dish will keep everyone full and happy.

Tools and Preparation

To make preparing your Ground Beef Enchiladas easier, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef evenly and allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Baking Dish: Ensures that your enchiladas are baked perfectly while keeping them warm until served.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious blend of savory beef, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

For the Filling

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder

For Assembly

• 8 flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

For Garnish

• Sour cream (for topping)

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Brown the ground beef with the diced onions until they become translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder; sauté everything together for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla.
2. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle with shredded cheese generously.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas!

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground Beef Enchiladas make a delightful main dish that can be served in various ways. You can elevate your meal with tasty toppings and sides to complement the flavors of these enchiladas.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Jalapeños: Sliced jalapeños add an extra kick for those who like it spicy.

Sides

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices pairs perfectly with enchiladas.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty complement to the meal.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado guacamole adds richness and a refreshing taste.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas

Achieving the perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas is easier than you think. With a few simple tips, you can enhance both flavor and texture.

• Boldly season your beef: Using cumin and chili powder will deepen the flavor profile of your filling.
• Lightly fry tortillas: This prevents sogginess and makes them easier to roll.
• Use homemade sauce when possible: Homemade enchilada sauce can elevate the taste significantly compared to store-bought versions.
• Don’t overfill tortillas: This ensures they roll easily without tearing and helps them cook evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Pairing side dishes with Ground Beef Enchiladas enhances your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder for a flavorful side.
2. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds brightness.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for a great appetizer or snack.
4. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed in lime juice complements the rich enchiladas beautifully.
5. Zesty Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and lime creates a nutritious contrast.
6. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables bring color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ground Beef Enchiladas can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong tortillas: Choosing low-quality tortillas can lead to tearing and sogginess. Opt for fresh flour or corn tortillas that will hold up well when baked.
• Overfilling the tortillas: Stuffing too much filling into each tortilla can cause them to burst while baking. Stick to a moderate amount of filling for easier rolling and baking.
• Skipping the sauce: Neglecting to pour enough enchilada sauce over the tortillas can result in dry enchiladas. Make sure to generously cover them before baking for maximum flavor and moisture.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking Ground Beef Enchiladas in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure they bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
• Ignoring toppings: Failing to add toppings like cheese or sour cream can take away from the dish’s richness. Don’t forget to sprinkle cheese on top before baking and consider adding fresh herbs or jalapeños afterward.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Ground Beef Enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Ground Beef Enchiladas

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Ground Beef Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover enchiladas with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place one or two enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes until hot, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add enchiladas, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Ground Beef Enchiladas spicier?

You can add more chili powder or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture before filling the tortillas. Also, consider using spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or any other protein of your choice, such as turkey or tofu.

What sides pair well with Ground Beef Enchiladas?

Consider serving them with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Cornbread also complements this dish nicely!

How do I prevent my enchiladas from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, lightly fry the tortillas in oil before filling them. This creates a barrier that keeps moisture from soaking into the tortillas.

Can I make Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Enchiladas are not only flavorful but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick with traditional flavors or customize them with your favorite ingredients, they are sure to please family and friends alike. Give this recipe a try and explore different variations!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Ground Beef Enchiladas

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (approximately one enchilada per serving) 1x

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Description

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delightful, savory dish that combines seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese wrapped snugly in soft tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these enchiladas are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit various tastes. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. The leftovers are just as tasty, making them ideal for meal prep. Serve them with your favorite toppings and sides for an unforgettable dining experience!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and onions until onions are translucent (5-7 minutes). Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; sauté for another minute.
3. Spoon the beef mixture into each tortilla and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
4. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
5. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg