Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A deliciously easy recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas for a comforting meal everyone will love.
This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dish that pleases the whole family.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory beef flavor wrapped in soft tortillas
- Generous amounts of melted cheese for that gooey goodness
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night of the week
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to quick and satisfying dinners, Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a top contender. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef with melty cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Not only do they deliver on taste, but they also come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent.
This recipe is incredibly versatile too! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients. Want a little heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Prefer a vegetarian option? Substitute the beef with black beans or lentils. The possibilities are endless, and each variation is sure to please.
Tips for Perfect Enchiladas
To ensure your enchiladas come out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, warm your tortillas before filling them. This makes them more pliable and prevents them from tearing while you roll them up. You can heat them in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for a few seconds.
Additionally, don’t skimp on the cheese! A generous layer on top not only adds flavor but also creates that irresistible gooey texture that enchiladas are known for. Opt for a mix of cheeses if you want to experiment—pepper jack, Monterey jack, or even a hint of mozzarella can take your dish to the next level.
Serving Suggestions
Once your enchiladas are baked to perfection, it’s time to think about serving. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy contrast that balances the spiciness of the dish. Fresh chopped cilantro can brighten the flavors, while sliced jalapeños give an extra kick for those who love heat.
For a complete meal, consider pairing your enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. The freshness of a salad can complement the richness of the enchiladas beautifully, making for a well-rounded dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Add Seasonings
Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce and mix well.
Assemble the Enchiladas
Place a tortilla on a flat surface, spoon some of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese in the center, then roll it up tightly. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Bake
Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade enchiladas!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Each serving of Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas provides a hearty source of protein from the beef and cheese, along with carbohydrates from the tortillas. The addition of vegetables, such as onions or peppers, can enhance the nutrient profile even further, offering vitamins and minerals.
If you're watching your calorie intake, consider using lean ground beef or substituting with ground turkey for a lighter option. Additionally, using whole wheat tortillas can increase the fiber content, making your meal more filling and nutritious.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your enchiladas is simple. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the quality of the cheese and the texture of the tortillas.
For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled, unbaked enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months. When you're ready to bake them, there's no need to thaw—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ What can I substitute for enchilada sauce?
You can use salsa or make a homemade sauce with tomatoes and spices.
→ Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ Are these enchiladas freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to eat.
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
A deliciously easy recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas for a comforting meal everyone will love.
Created by: Sophia Lane
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Enchiladas
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce and mix well.
Place a tortilla on a flat surface, spoon some of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese in the center, then roll it up tightly. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g