Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe: A Family Favorite

When it comes to comfort food, ground beef enchiladas have a special place in my kitchen. These warm, cheesy, and saucy beauties are a hit every time I make them. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or need something amazing for a casual get-together, this recipe is perfect. Let’s talk about how you can make these delicious enchiladas without breaking a sweat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I have to admit—enchiladas are my go-to when I want something hearty and flavorful. Growing up, my mom used to make a version of these, and I’ve taken her recipe and added my little twists over the years. What I love most is how customizable this dish is. Don’t have ground beef? Swap it for shredded chicken or turkey! It’s like a blank canvas for all your favorite flavors.

Plus, this recipe is super forgiving. If you’re having one of those “I forgot to thaw the meat” kind of days, you can still pull it together with pantry staples. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these mouthwatering ground beef enchiladas:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup canned black beans (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
• 8-10 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, if you prefer)
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh cilantro and diced green onions for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding black beans, toss them in now and mix everything well. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

Here’s where the fun starts! Take a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture down the center. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, then roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

4. Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Make sure they’re all covered—no one likes a dry enchilada! Top with the rest of the shredded cheese.

5. Bake

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing by now, and it’s hard not to sneak a bite right out of the oven (but let them cool a bit first!).

6. Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle some fresh cilantro and diced green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the enchiladas with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or even a simple green salad.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

• Make It Ahead: These enchiladas are perfect for meal prep. Assemble everything the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just bake as directed.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
• Homemade Sauce: If you have time, try making your own enchilada sauce. It’s surprisingly easy and takes the flavor to the next level.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classics, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some heat or a Mexican cheese blend for extra creaminess.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of ground beef enchiladas lies in their simplicity. The flavors are bold yet balanced, and the dish is incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder—less cleanup is always a win in my book!

Every time I make these, my family cleans their plates and goes back for seconds. It’s one of those meals that feels a little special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends.

Pro Tip

Don’t skip the garnishes! A little fresh cilantro or green onion adds brightness to the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and sauce. If cilantro isn’t your thing, chopped parsley works great too.

Final Thoughts

Ground beef enchiladas are more than just a meal; they’re a way to bring people together. Whether it’s a quiet dinner with your family or a lively gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! (Bonus points if you share your own twist on the recipe!)

Happy cooking!