There’s something incredibly satisfying about warm, cheesy beef enchiladas smothered in rich sauce.
This recipe brings together tender seasoned beef, soft tortillas, and melted cheese for a cozy, family-friendly meal.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and flavorful – Seasoned beef with classic Mexican spices.
Cheesy and saucy – Loads of melty cheese and rich enchilada sauce.
Family favorite – Kids and adults alike love this comforting dish.
Quick to assemble – Ready in under 40 minutes.
Versatile – Use flour or corn tortillas based on preference.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Lean ground beef – keeps it hearty but not greasy.
Flour or corn tortillas – soft wraps for filling.
Enchilada sauce – store-bought or homemade for convenience.
Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese – melts beautifully.
Onion and garlic – aromatics that boost flavor.
Cumin and chili powder – classic spices for authentic taste.
Sour cream – perfect creamy topping.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
Don’t overfill tortillas to prevent tearing.
Warm tortillas slightly before rolling to make them more pliable.
Pour enchilada sauce evenly to coat all tortillas well.
Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
How to Make Beef Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until onions are translucent and beef is browned, about 5–7 minutes.
Add minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Spoon the beef mixture evenly onto each tortilla.
Roll tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure each is well covered.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese generously over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
What to Serve It With
Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
Refried beans or black beans
Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips
A crisp green salad with lime dressing
Sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro as garnish
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican blend cheese.
Include black beans or corn in the filling for texture and nutrition.
Top with sliced avocado or fresh pico de gallo before serving.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
This dish freezes well—freeze before baking for up to 2 months, then bake from frozen with an extra 10–15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce from scratch?
Yes, a simple tomato-based enchilada sauce with chili powder and spices works great.
Are flour or corn tortillas better?
Both work well—flour tortillas are softer while corn add a traditional flavor and texture.
Can I prepare enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, bell peppers, corn, or zucchini make great additions.
How do I keep tortillas from tearing?
Warm tortillas in the microwave wrapped in a damp towel to soften before rolling.
Final Thoughts
These beef enchiladas are the perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and comforting.
Easy to prepare but packed with flavor, they make weeknight dinners special without the fuss.
Once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for any taco night or family meal.
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Brown ground beef and onions in a skillet over medium heat until onions are translucent.
- Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
- Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll, and place seam-side down in dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and cheese melts.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/beef-enchiladas/
Notes
