If you have a craving for warm, comforting Mexican flavors, then you absolutely must try this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe. It’s packed with a rich, savory filling that’s a perfect balance of seasoned ground beef, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, all wrapped snugly in soft tortillas and smothered with melted cheese and tangy enchilada sauce. This dish brings together colorful ingredients and bold flavors that make every bite a celebration. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends, these enchiladas will quickly become a trusted favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward yet essential for crafting the layers of flavor and texture that make these Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe truly irresistible. Each component plays a special role, from the protein-packed beef to the creamy, melted cheese and the bright enchilada sauce that ties it all together.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty base that delivers rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and subtle punch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps soften onions and prevents sticking.
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with bold and spicy Mexican flair.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Adds moisture and subtle acidity.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the filling juicy and tender.
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides creamy texture and boosts fiber.
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Sweet bursts that brighten every bite.
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce, divided: Essential saucy component for richness and vibrant color.
- 8 medium flour or corn tortillas: Wrap everything up with your choice of texture and flavor.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided: Melts perfectly to create gooey, golden tops.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, optional: Adds freshness and a pop of green for garnish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste: Enhances and balances all the savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to round out the taste profile.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then throw in the finely chopped onion. Cook it gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic for just 30 seconds—this quick step unlocks its incredible flavor without burning it. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. If there’s any excess grease, drain it carefully. Now, the magic happens: sprinkle in the taco seasoning, pour in tomato sauce and beef broth, then mix in black beans, corn, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly and meld the flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s heating up, spread half a cup of enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep your enchiladas moist and saucy from the start. Lay out each tortilla and spoon roughly one-third cup of the beef mixture down the center. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little shredded Mexican blend cheese inside for extra melty goodness. Roll each tortilla up tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish, arranging them close but not overcrowded.
Step 3: Top and Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one gets its fair share of that vibrant, flavorful sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top to create a bubbly, golden crust during baking. Pop the dish into the oven uncovered and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly with a slight golden hue. Let your enchiladas rest for about 5 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro over the top adds a refreshing, herbaceous touch and a burst of color that makes the dish pop. You can also offer lime wedges for guests to squeeze over their enchiladas to add a bright citrusy zing that pairs wonderfully with the rich filling. Sour cream or a dollop of guacamole can add creamy contrast that balances the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe pairs fabulously with simple sides like a crisp green salad or Mexican rice to absorb any extra sauce. Refried beans also make a hearty companion, boosting protein and fiber while keeping your meal authentically Mexican. For some crunch, consider serving with tortilla chips and fresh salsa on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual get-together, serve these enchiladas family-style in the baking dish so everyone can help themselves. Alternatively, for a plated presentation, slice individual enchiladas in half at a diagonal and fan them out on colorful plates. Add a drizzle of crema or a sprinkle of queso fresco for a beautiful, gourmet touch that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These enchiladas store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Leftovers often taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to mingle. Just keep any garnishes separate until serving to maintain their freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas by wrapping the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, making this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe a fantastic option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw frozen enchiladas overnight in the fridge for best results. Warm them covered in a 350-degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power to avoid drying out the edges.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas give a more authentic texture and flavor for Mexican dishes. Just warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
How spicy is this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe?
This recipe is mildly spicy thanks to the taco seasoning, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a spicier taco mix if you like a bit more kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative while keeping all the other ingredients the same.
What cheese works best for enchiladas?
A shredded Mexican blend is perfect because it melts well and combines several cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for rich flavor and gooey texture.
Is it possible to prepare enchiladas ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about the simple joy of a well-made Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe. This dish brings together flavors and textures that feel both festive and familiar, perfect for sharing around the table with people you love. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s not only delicious but also versatile and satisfying. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these enchiladas, they’ll become your go-to meal every time you want comfort with a bold Mexican twist.
Print
Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Ground Beef Enchiladas are a hearty and flavorful Mexican casserole featuring lean ground beef simmered with beans, corn, and homemade or store-bought taco seasoning, wrapped in tortillas, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and baked to bubbly perfection. This easy family dinner offers a satisfying balance of protein, veggies, and cheese with a deliciously saucy finish.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Enchiladas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce, divided
- 8 medium flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) to prepare it for baking the enchiladas.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Cook ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Add seasonings and simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, beef broth, black beans, corn, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and all flavors meld together.
- Prepare baking dish: Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble enchiladas: Spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla, sprinkle a little shredded cheese over the meat, then roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the assembled rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top for a bubbly, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes out of the oven to firm up slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef mixture before simmering.
- Corn tortillas provide a more traditional flavor and are a great gluten-free option, though flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll.
- You can assemble the enchiladas in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on busy days.
