These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a tasty twist on a classic favorite! Stuffed with seasoned ground beef and lots of gooey cheese, they’re perfect for any family dinner.
Every bite of these enchiladas makes me feel warm and cozy. Plus, they’re super easy to make—you just roll, bake, and enjoy! Trust me, leftovers don’t last long at my house! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually choose 80/20 beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for healthier options, ground turkey or chicken works great and has less fat.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are softer, but corn tortillas add a wonderful authentic flavor. If gluten is a concern, opt for corn tortillas or even gluten-free varieties.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you could mix it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that’s suitable for melting.
Enchilada Sauce: I recommend using red enchilada sauce for a rich taste, but you can also make your own or use green sauce if you prefer a different flavor profile!
What’s the Best Way to Keep Tortillas from Tearing?
Warming tortillas before filling them is key to preventing tears. Heat them in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 15-30 seconds. This softens them and makes rolling easier!
- Don’t skip this step—your tortillas will thank you!
- Keep them covered with a kitchen towel as you work to maintain warmth.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Seasoned Just Right?
Seasoning is essential for flavorful enchiladas! Don’t be afraid to taste as you go. Start with the taco seasoning mix, then add salt and pepper gradually. You can even add a pinch of cayenne if you like heat!
- Once the beef is browned, taste a small bit and adjust the seasoning.
- Make sure to mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Enjoy making these enchiladas! They’re simple, cheesy, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix or homemade taco seasoning
- 1 cup (240ml) water
For the Enchiladas:
- 8 flour or corn tortillas (6-8 inch size)
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 can (10 oz/285g) red enchilada sauce
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for prep work and then about 20-25 minutes to bake. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First off, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough when you pop the enchiladas in.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s aromatic.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef! Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, and brown it for about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. Remember to keep an eye on it!
4. Season the Beef:
Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and pour in a cup of water. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens a bit. Don’t forget to taste and adjust with some salt and pepper if needed!
5. Assemble the Enchiladas:
Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce (about 1/3 cup) into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Warm the tortillas in the microwave briefly to make them easier to roll. Stuff each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture, sprinkle some cheese on top, and roll them up tightly. Place each one seam-side down in the dish.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once all the tortillas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
7. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is all melted and bubbly!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if you want a little extra flavor. Serve them hot with sour cream on the side, and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful enchiladas!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning to your taste, as these meats can have milder flavors than beef.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Enchilada Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade enchilada sauce using tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and a bit of garlic powder. Mix these together for a simple substitute!
How Do I Store Leftover Enchiladas?
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for quicker results.
Can I Make These Enchiladas Vegetarian?
Definitely! Just replace the ground beef with a combination of beans, lentils, or chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to keep the flavor hearty and satisfying!
