Ground Beef Enchiladas

If you’re seeking a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further than ground beef enchiladas. These delicious rolled tortillas stuffed with savory ground beef and smothered in rich enchilada sauce are sure to delight your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or preparing a weeknight meal, these enchiladas are a wonderful option that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground beef enchiladas are not only delicious but are also incredibly versatile. They are perfect for busy weeknights since they can be prepared ahead of time and are always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that is satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, enchiladas can be customized to suit different tastes, add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients to make it your own.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchiladas

To prepare a scrumptious batch of ground beef enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:

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

Filling Ingredients

The filling is the heart of your enchiladas, and it’s important to add the right herbs and spices to create that rich, comforting flavor. The combination of cumin and chili powder will give your ground beef an excellent depth of flavor. You can also add cooked black beans or pinto beans for added texture and fiber.

Sauce Ingredients

If you’re short on time, opting for store-bought enchilada sauce is a convenient choice. However, making your own enchilada sauce can elevate your dish, allowing you to control the flavor and spiciness. Don’t forget to top your enchiladas with cheese – it’s the crowning glory that makes the dish irresistibly gooey and delicious.

Ingredient Notes

If you’re looking for healthier alternatives or family-friendly substitutions, consider the following:

• Ground Beef: You can replace ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter option. For vegetarian enchiladas, use lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of both.
• Tortillas: If you want to lower the carbs, consider using whole wheat tortillas or zucchini slices.
• Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Enchilada Sauce: If you want a tangy twist, substitute part of the enchilada sauce with a little lime juice or vinegar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to create your delightful ground beef enchiladas? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1 – Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season the beef mixture with cumin and chili powder, stirring to combine thoroughly. Remove from heat.

Step 2 – Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). To assemble the enchiladas, pour a small amount of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Take a tortilla, fill it with the ground beef mixture, and sprinkle some shredded cheese on top. Roll it up tightly, placing seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 3 – Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the top, making sure to cover all tortillas evenly. Sprinkle additional cheese on top for that cheesy goodness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill your tortillas; this can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking.
2. Warm Tortillas: Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them more pliable for rolling.
3. Customize Your Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika, chipotle powder, or even a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
4. Let Them Rest: Allow the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking to make cutting and serving easier.
5. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor profile. Fresh cilantro as a topping adds a beautiful finish.

Flavor Variations

If you want to switch things up, consider these fantastic flavor variations for your ground beef enchiladas:

1. Spicy Chicken Enchiladas: Replace ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken and add jalapeños for heat.
2. Veggie Enchiladas: Use a mix of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian option.
3. Mole Enchiladas: Swap the enchilada sauce for a rich mole sauce for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
4. Breakfast Enchiladas: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a delightful twist that’s perfect for brunch.
5. Tex-Mex Style: Mix in diced green chilies, black olives, and corn for a fun Tex-Mex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef enchiladas make for a hearty meal, but they pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving with:

• Mexican rice or Spanish rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• Fresh guacamole and chips
• A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
• Sliced avocados or pico de gallo for fresh toppings

Storage and Freezing Instructions

To store leftover enchiladas, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3–5 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each enchilada securely in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen enchiladas can last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	15g
Fiber	3g
Protein	20g
Sodium	700mg

FAQ About Ground Beef Enchiladas

Final Thoughts

Ground beef enchiladas are a fantastic dish that can bring joy to any meal. Bursting with flavor and easily customizable, they are perfect for families and gatherings alike. By following the simple recipe outlined above, you can create a delicious batch of enchiladas your loved ones will treasure. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking, these enchiladas are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!