When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty and satisfying nature of enchiladas. Today, we’re diving into a simple yet delicious recipe for Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. With a savory filling, warm tortillas, and a rich enchilada sauce, this dish is perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it a great choice for busy evenings. Let’s get started!

Why This Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas Stands Out

These Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, they are quick to prepare, taking less than an hour from start to finish. Second, the flavor of the seasoned ground beef combined with the gooey cheese and zesty enchilada sauce creates a taste explosion that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Finally, this recipe is versatile – you can easily customize the filling or toppings to suit your personal preferences.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create these mouthwatering Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:

1.5 pounds of lean ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
12 corn tortillas
3 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or canola oil)
19 ounces red enchilada sauce (1 medium can or 2 small cans)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Freshly chopped cilantro for garnish
Pico de gallo for topping

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:

Large skillet for browning the beef and onions.
Spatula for stirring and serving.
9×13 inch baking dish to assemble the enchiladas.
Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.
Sharp knife for dicing the onion and chopping cilantro.

How to Prepare Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s walk through the steps to make these delicious Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas.

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and onion mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the meat is evenly coated. If you like a little heat, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or chili powder at this stage!

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

In a separate skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Lightly fry each corn tortilla for about 10-15 seconds on each side, just to soften them up. This step helps prevent the tortillas from cracking when you roll them.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take a tortilla, spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto it, and sprinkle with a bit of shredded cheddar cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are assembled in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the enchiladas are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve topped with freshly chopped cilantro and pico de gallo for a burst of freshness.

Seasonal Adaptations

One of the best things about Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas is their adaptability. Here are some seasonal twists you can try:

In the summer, add fresh corn and diced zucchini to the beef mixture.
In the fall, incorporate diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness and texture.
During the winter, swap out the beef for shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
In spring, try adding spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.

If You’re Curious

Wondering about the origins of enchiladas? This classic Mexican dish has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. Traditionally, it consists of rolled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, covered in a chili sauce. The versatility of enchiladas allows for endless combinations, making them a beloved dish across various cultures.

Storage Pro Tips

Got leftovers? No worries! Here are some tips for storing your Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas:

Store any uneaten enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Absolutely! While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas can be used for a softer texture. Just keep in mind that they may not hold up as well when rolled.

What can I substitute for the ground beef?

You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Can I make enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas in advance and refrigerate them for a day before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from the fridge.

How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving.

Creamy Tomato Beef Rigatoni – A creamy, comforting pasta dish that pairs beautifully with a side of enchiladas.
Italian Zucchini Meatball Soup – A flavorful soup that makes a cozy dinner option.
Skillet Beef Stroganoff With Mushrooms Wide Noodles – Another hearty dish that’s easy to whip up on busy nights.

The Takeaway

Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures in every bite. With a simple cooking process and a variety of options for customization, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

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