These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a warm hug on a plate! With seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas, they’re simply mouthwatering.
They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy nights. I like serving them with a big dollop of sour cream on top—because who doesn’t love extra creaminess? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the enchiladas their hearty flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well too. You could also use lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option!
Taco Seasoning: A seasoning packet simplifies things, but you can easily make your own blend with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. It allows more control over spice levels. I find homemade tastes fresher!
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but if you want a homemade version, blend some tomatoes, chili powder, and spices! For a milder sauce, use tomato sauce mixed with a bit of broth.
Cheese: Cheddar is a great melter, but feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. I love adding a sprinkle of cotija cheese on top for extra flavor!
How Can I Prevent Soggy Enchiladas?
A soggy enchilada is a common issue, but it’s easy to avoid with a few tips. First, warm the tortillas before rolling them. This keeps them pliable and prevents cracking.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas; about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture is perfect.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This helps keep the bottom of the tortillas from getting too soggy.
- When baking, ensure your sauce and cheese cover the top. This helps the enchiladas steam properly without making them mushy.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked and delicious enchiladas every time!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
For the Enchiladas:
- 8 flour tortillas (6-8 inch size)
- 1 cup (240 ml) enchilada sauce, plus extra for topping
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- chopped cilantro
- sliced jalapeños
- diced tomatoes
- sliced black olives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of preparation time and 20-25 minutes of baking time, so you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes total to enjoy these delicious enchiladas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Filling:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and softened.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep things light.
3. Add Flavor:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma. Then sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, pour in 1/2 cup of water, and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Combine with Cheese:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese. This will add a delicious creamy texture to your beef filling!
5. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla, then roll them up tightly.
6. Assemble the Enchiladas:
Place each rolled tortilla seam side down in the baking dish, snugly packed together. Once all are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Then sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese over everything, giving it that cheesy goodness!
7. Bake and Serve:
Bake the enchiladas in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top your enchiladas with sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, tomatoes, or olives—whatever your heart desires! And voilà—enjoy your cheesy, hearty enchiladas!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, and the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make These Enchiladas Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or chopped veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Just season them well with taco seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Reheat Leftover Enchiladas?
To reheat leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.
What Should I Serve with Enchiladas?
These enchiladas go well with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with guacamole or tortilla chips for a fun twist!
