These ground beef enchiladas are a tasty treat, packed with juicy meat and covered in a warm, cheesy sauce. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist that cheesy goodness on top. I love to top mine with some extra sour cream and salsa for a little zing. Yum!
Making these enchiladas is so simple! Just fill, roll, bake, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use any ground meat like turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas to make it vegetarian. Ground beef has a rich flavor, but I often use turkey for a lighter option.
Onion and Garlic: If you’re not a fan of onions or need a milder taste, try using shallots instead. For garlic lovers, you can double the amount for an extra punch! Fresh onions and garlic lend an amazing aroma to the dish.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: If you don’t have these on hand, use salsa instead for added flavor. Just make sure it’s mild if you’re serving kids. I’ve also added a splash of lime juice for a fresh twist!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat. A blend of cheeses really boosts flavor and texture in these enchiladas.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using parsley or green onions as a garnish. They add freshness without the strong taste of cilantro which some people find overpowering.
How Do I Ensure My Enchiladas Don’t Fall Apart When Rolling?
Rolling tortillas neatly can be tricky! To make this easier, warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens them, making them flexible without tearing.
- Work with one tortilla at a time, placing the filling in the center.
- Don’t overload; about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of filling works well.
- Fold in the sides as you roll from the bottom up, tucking the filling as you go.
- Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish to keep them secure.
With these tips, your enchiladas will hold their shape and be ready to enjoy! Happy cooking!
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Just enough time for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Mixture:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Once the beef is cooked, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Keep cooking until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step adds a great flavor base!
2. Add the Sauces and Spices:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
3. Preheat the Oven:
While your beef mixture is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s ready for your enchiladas as soon as you prepare them.
4. Assemble Your Enchiladas:
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking. Take a tortilla, spoon a portion of the beef mixture in the center, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Do this for all the tortillas until you’re done!
5. Add the Final Touches:
Once all your tortillas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining beef mixture over the top, making sure it covers everything evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. It’s going to get so cheesy and delicious!
6. Bake and Serve:
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. When it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with sour cream and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your tasty Ground Beef Enchiladas!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey can dry out more easily, so you may want to add a splash of broth or a bit of olive oil to keep it juicy during the cooking process.
What If I Don’t Have Flour Tortillas?
No problem! You can use corn tortillas instead for a gluten-free option. If you go with corn tortillas, heat them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side to make them more pliable before filling them with the beef mixture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like some heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños either in the beef mixture or as a garnish. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling to kick up the spice level!
Can I Make These Enchiladas Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
