Ground Beef Enchiladas

Few dishes can rival the comfort and flavor of a homemade plate of Ground Beef Enchiladas. Imagine soft, warm tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It’s a meal that brings people together and feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or preparing a dish to impress guests, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The perfect blend of spices and savory ingredients makes these enchiladas irresistible.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add ingredients to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or celebrations.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these flavorful enchiladas:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Ground beef	1 lb
Medium onion, chopped	1
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Enchilada sauce (red or green)	1 can (10 oz)
Diced green chilies (optional)	1 can (4 oz)
Ground cumin	1 teaspoon
Chili powder	1/2 teaspoon
Paprika	1/2 teaspoon
Salt and pepper	To taste
Corn tortillas	10–12
Shredded cheddar cheese	2 cups
Sour cream (optional)	1/2 cup
Fresh cilantro (optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Filling

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Once the beef is about halfway cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onion is soft and the beef is fully browned.
• Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

2. Season the Filling

• Add the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and diced green chilies (if using) to the beef mixture.
• Stir well to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Pour in half of the enchilada sauce and mix until the filling is evenly coated.

3. Soften the Tortillas

• Lightly heat each corn tortilla in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable. This prevents cracking when you roll them.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place a scoop of the beef filling in the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with a small amount of shredded cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

5. Top and Bake

• Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, spreading it evenly to coat them.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
• Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas

• Choose the Right Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can use flour tortillas for a softer texture.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more chili powder or use hot enchilada sauce for extra heat.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers, spinach, or black beans for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Cheesier: Layer additional cheese between the enchiladas for a gooey, cheesy dish.
• Prevent Sogginess: Don’t overfill the tortillas, and bake immediately after assembling.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350–400 kcal
Protein	20 g
Carbohydrates	22 g
Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	10 g
Sodium	800 mg

Serving Suggestions

These enchiladas pair wonderfully with:

• Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that complements the enchiladas.
• Refried Beans: Adds extra protein and richness to the meal.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with avocado and lime vinaigrette balances the rich flavors.
• Chips and Guacamole: Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

FAQs About Ground Beef Enchiladas

1. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate them, then bake when ready.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Store the enchiladas in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. What’s the best way to reheat enchiladas?

Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or shredded chicken are great alternatives that work just as well.

5. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables.

6. What’s the difference between red and green enchilada sauce?

Red enchilada sauce is made with red chilies and has a smoky, slightly sweet flavor, while green sauce uses green chilies and tomatillos for a tangy, fresh taste.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe is the perfect way to bring bold, authentic flavors to your table. From the savory beef filling to the melted cheese and rich enchilada sauce, every bite is a taste of comfort and joy.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat your family and friends to a homemade meal they won’t forget. Don’t forget to share your experience or customize the recipe to make it your own. Happy cooking!

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