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Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

4.5 from 111 reviews

This classic Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic spices, and melted cheddar cheese rolled inside soft corn tortillas and baked to perfection. A comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, served with optional sour cream and fresh cilantro for added creaminess and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
  • 1/2 cup enchilada sauce

Assembly

  • 1012 corn tortillas
  • 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)

Serving Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
  3. Season the Meat Mixture: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, diced green chilies (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors. Add about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce to the beef mixture, stir, then remove from heat.
  4. Prepare the Tortillas: Lightly heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable and prevent cracking when rolled.
  5. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: 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 to prevent sticking.
  6. Assemble the Enchiladas: Take each warmed tortilla and fill it with a generous spoonful of the beef mixture. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and arranged.
  7. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
  8. Bake the Enchiladas: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a slightly crispy cheese topping.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Remove enchiladas from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro if desired for added creaminess and freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • For extra spice, add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
  • Warming the tortillas makes them more flexible and prevents cracking during rolling.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the enchilada sauce is certified gluten-free and use gluten-free tortillas.

Keywords: Ground Beef Enchiladas, Mexican Dinner, Baked Enchiladas, Cheesy Enchiladas, Easy Dinner Recipe