Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a comforting, family-friendly dish packed with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and smothered in rich enchilada sauce. Wrapped in soft tortillas and baked until bubbly, they’re the perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this Tex-Mex classic will become a go-to favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefyellow oniongarlicchili powdercuminpaprikaenchilada saucetomatopastecorn or flour tortillasshredded cheddar cheeseshredded Monterey Jack cheesesaltpepperolive oil

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté chopped onion until soft, about 3 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Add a small amount of enchilada sauce to the beef mixture to moisten it, then remove from heat.

Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, roll up, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, then top with more shredded cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 enchiladas.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or shredded chicken as a leaner protein alternative.
Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and flavor.
Top with sliced olives, jalapeños, or green onions for added garnish.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you prefer a spicier cheese blend.
Make it creamy by adding a spoonful of sour cream into the beef mixture before rolling.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
For microwave reheating, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
You can also freeze enchiladas before baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?

Yes, store-bought sauce works great, but you can also make your own if preferred.

What tortillas work best for enchiladas?

Either corn or flour tortillas can be used. Corn gives a more traditional flavor, while flour tends to be softer and easier to roll.

Why are my enchiladas soggy?

Too much sauce or overbaking can cause sogginess. Use just enough sauce to coat and bake until just bubbly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best cheese to use?

A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts well and gives a nice flavor, but feel free to use your favorite melting cheese.

Are these spicy?

They have a mild kick from the seasoning, but spice level depends on the enchilada sauce and any added toppings like jalapeños.

Can I use leftover taco meat?

Absolutely! It’s a great way to use up leftovers and save prep time.

How do I prevent tortillas from tearing?

Warming them slightly in the microwave or stovetop makes them more pliable and easier to roll.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two dishes to accommodate the extra enchiladas.

What can I serve with these enchiladas?

Great side options include Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a satisfying, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or feeding a hungry crowd. With simple ingredients and flexible options, they’re endlessly customizable and sure to please everyone at the table. Serve with your favorite toppings and sides for a full Tex-Mex experience right at home.