These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a tasty treat! They feature soft tortillas filled with seasoned beef and gooey cheese, all smothered in zesty sauce. Yum!
Making these enchiladas is a breeze! I love rolling them up and watching the cheese melt as they bake. Plus, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy with some sour cream on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use any ground meat according to your preference. Turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option. You could also use a meat substitute for a vegetarian version!
Onion: Yellow or white onions are great for adding flavor. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or even green onions can substitute. For a milder taste, skip the onion altogether!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional for enchiladas, but corn tortillas can be used if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just be sure to warm them up first to prevent cracking!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend will give a nice flavor. For a healthier choice, you can use reduced-fat cheese.
Enchilada Sauce: You can use store-bought sauce for convenience. If you prefer homemade, blend canned tomatoes, chili powder, and garlic for a quick version. Hot salsa can also substitute for a kick!
How Do I Make Sure My Enchiladas Don’t Fall Apart?
To keep your enchiladas intact and maximum flavor, handling the tortillas is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave for about 10 seconds. This softens them and prevents tearing.
- Don’t overfill them; around 1/4 cup of the beef mixture is perfect for rolling.
- Be sure to roll them tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. This helps keep them together while baking.
Also, a generous layer of sauce on top will keep everything nice and moist while baking!
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 (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup enchilada sauce, plus extra for topping
For Assembling:
- 8 flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas cook evenly.
2. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it’s softened, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef and minced garlic to the pan. Cook this mixture, breaking up the beef as you go, for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s browned and cooked through.
3. Spice It Up:
If there’s any excess grease in the skillet, drain it. Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning along with about 1 cup of the enchilada sauce. Mix it all together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper if needed.
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
Once the filling is ready, remove the skillet from heat. Spread out your flour tortillas on a clean flat surface for easy assembly.
5. Fill the Tortillas:
Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Top with around 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese. Roll up each tortilla tightly, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go, and place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sauce It Up:
Pour any remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Then, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top to create a cheesy layer.
7. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
8. Serve:
Take the enchiladas out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on the side.
Now dig in and enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas!
FAQs about Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative, and you can even use shredded rotisserie chicken for a faster prep. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or a veggie crumble.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make These Enchiladas Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and roll the enchiladas the night before. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the sauce and cheese, and then bake according to the recipe instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Enchilada Sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce on hand, you can use salsa or a homemade sauce of blended tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!
