If you are craving a comforting, richly flavored Mexican-inspired meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender, spiced ground beef with a luscious homemade enchilada sauce, wrapped in warm flour tortillas and topped with melting Monterey Jack cheese, it promises to deliver a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, these enchiladas are always a crowd-pleaser that bring everyone back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe comes down to a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create layers of deliciousness. Each item plays a crucial role, from the spices that give depth to the beef, to the fresh onion and garlic that brighten the filling, and the cheese that binds everything with gooey goodness.
- Onion powder, 1 teaspoon: Adds a mellow, savory undertone to the spice mix without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic kick that’s essential in Mexican cooking.
- Cumin powder, 1 Tablespoon: Brings earthy, nutty warmth that complements the beef beautifully.
- Paprika, 1 Tablespoon: Offers a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and a vibrant red hue.
- Dried oregano, ½ Tablespoon: Adds herbal fragrance and balances spices with a subtle tang.
- Olive oil, 3 Tablespoons plus 1 Tablespoon: Used for cooking and making the roux; it gives richness without heaviness.
- All-purpose flour, 3 Tablespoons: Creates the base for a smooth thickened enchilada sauce.
- Chicken stock, 2 cups: Provides a savory liquid foundation for the sauce, enriching its body.
- Canned tomato sauce, 1½ cups: Adds a silky texture and tang that balances the spices.
- Salt, ¼ teaspoon and Pepper, ½ teaspoon: Essential for seasoning and elevating all flavors.
- Minced garlic, 1 teaspoon: Fresh garlic brightens the ground beef mixture.
- Small white onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and crunch to the filling.
- Can of diced green chilies, 4 ounces: Brings gentle heat and a burst of color.
- Ground beef (85% lean), 2 pounds: The hearty protein base that makes these enchiladas filling and flavorful.
- Flour tortillas (burrito-size), 8 large: Perfectly sized to hold the filling and roll up easily.
- Monterey Jack cheese, 2 cups freshly grated: Melts smoothly, creating a rich, gooey topping that pulls the dish together.
- Cilantro (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens each bite.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
Start by combining onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and dried oregano in a small bowl. This spice blend forms the backbone of your enchilada flavor, perfectly seasoning both the sauce and the beef. Setting it aside now lets you use it quickly as you move between steps.
Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil and stir in the flour to create a smooth paste. Cooking it for about a minute develops a nutty base. Next, whisk in half a cup of chicken stock to form a thick sauce, then gradually add the remaining chicken stock, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of your spice mix. Increase heat and cook for several minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens into a luscious, velvety finish. Set aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the beef.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the minced garlic and finely chopped onion for about 2 minutes to soften and release fragrance. Stir in the diced green chilies and the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Sprinkle in the remaining spice mix and let it cook for another couple of minutes until the beef is fully cooked and seasoned through. Pour roughly ¼ cup of the enchilada sauce into the skillet, letting it mingle with the beef for 2 more minutes before removing from heat. This keeps the filling moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor from below. Lay each flour tortilla flat, placing a generous amount of beef filling along the lower third, then roll it tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and snugly rolled. Drizzle the remaining sauce evenly over the top, then scatter the grated Monterey Jack cheese generously, creating a golden cheesy blanket that will melt beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish and bake for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting. Then, remove the cover and bake for another 10 minutes to achieve a bubbly, slightly browned cheese topping. Pull the enchiladas out, let them rest just a few minutes, and they are ready to serve piping hot and irresistibly cheesy!
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe to a vibrant dinner centerpiece. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce and cheese. Other fabulous options include a dollop of sour cream, slices of ripe avocado, or a few rings of pickled jalapeños for a tangy, spicy bite.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, serve your enchiladas with easy and complementary sides. Mexican rice or a zesty cilantro-lime rice adds color and texture, while refried beans or black beans bring additional protein and creaminess. A crisp green salad or fresh corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder can balance the richness with crunch and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to surprise your guests, try making mini enchilada cups by rolling the filling in smaller tortillas and baking them in a muffin tin for individual servings. Alternatively, layer the ingredients in a casserole style without rolling for a ‘deconstructed’ enchilada bake that’s equally delicious and perfect for family-style meals. Adding colorful garnishes right before serving turns this humble dish into a fiesta on the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld overnight, making them perfect for a next-day meal that requires minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to make enchiladas ahead for busy nights, assemble and freeze them before baking. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to ensure thorough heating and melty cheese.
Reheating
Reheat your enchiladas in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes, though the oven method preserves the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be used if you prefer a more traditional flavor or need a gluten-free option; however, be sure to warm them first to prevent cracking while rolling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative. Adjust the spices slightly to maintain depth of flavor, and your enchiladas will be just as satisfying.
How spicy is this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe?
The recipe offers a moderate spice level thanks to the green chilies and spices, but nothing too fiery. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or jalapeños if you like a kick.
Can I prepare the enchilada sauce earlier in the day?
Certainly! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This also helps deepen the flavors. Just reheat gently before assembling the enchiladas.
What cheese works best if I can’t find Monterey Jack?
While Monterey Jack is ideal for its meltiness and mild taste, mozzarella or a mild white cheddar can be good substitutes in a pinch. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well without overpowering the other flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes that brings people together effortlessly. With its rich sauce, perfectly spiced beef filling, and gooey cheese topping, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close for weeknight dinners or festive occasions alike. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite in your home!
Print
Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Ground Beef Enchiladas are a flavorful and hearty Mexican-inspired dish featuring a savory enchilada sauce, seasoned ground beef, soft flour tortillas, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines aromatic spices, a rich homemade sauce, and melty cheese baked to perfection for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 Tablespoon paprika
- 1/2 Tablespoon dried oregano
Enchilada Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 ½ cups canned tomato sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Ground Beef Filling
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 small white onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 2 pounds 85% lean ground beef
- All remaining Spice Mix from above
Assembly
- 8 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 2 cups freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese
- Cilantro, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, cumin powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly and set aside for later use.
- Make the Enchilada Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 3 tablespoons flour to form a paste and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Chicken Stock: Whisk in ½ cup of chicken stock immediately, which will create a thick, smooth paste. Gradually add the remaining 1.5 cups chicken stock, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the prepared spice mix. Whisk continuously to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Sauce: Increase heat to medium-high and cook the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes, whisking frequently until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm while preparing the filling and assembling the enchiladas.
- Cook Ground Beef Filling: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking for about 2 minutes until softened. Stir in diced green chilies and ground beef, breaking apart the meat as it cooks. Add the remaining spice mix and cook for another 2 minutes until the beef is fully browned.
- Add Sauce to Beef: Pour approximately ¼ cup of the prepared enchilada sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Place a portion of the beef filling along the lower third of each flour tortilla. Roll the tortillas up tightly and lay them seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas and filling are used.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the top thoroughly with 2 cups of freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake Enchiladas: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute the flour tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, but they may be more delicate to roll.
- Adjust the level of chili heat by choosing mild or hot diced green chilies depending on your preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal the next day.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of sour cream or crema before serving.
- Make sure not to overcook the cheese in the oven to avoid it becoming too brown or rubbery.
