There’s something magical about the aroma of Ground Beef Enchiladas wafting through the kitchen. The savory scent of seasoned beef mingling with the rich, tangy salsa creates a symphony of flavors that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine biting into a warm tortilla stuffed to the brim with juicy beef, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice—pure bliss.

I can still picture the first time I made Ground Beef Enchiladas for my family. It was during one of those chilly evenings when everyone craved something warm and comforting. Little did I know, this dish would become an instant family favorite, sparking laughter and joy around our dinner table. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, these enchiladas never fail to bring smiles and satisfied stomachs.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You can whip up these Ground Beef Enchiladas in no time, making it perfect for busy nights
- The flavor profile is robust with a delightful kick that will leave you craving more
- Their cheesy, golden-brown finish makes them visually appealing and irresistible
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with different fillings or toppings based on your preference!
I remember my sister’s eyes lighting up when I served these enchiladas for the first time—she declared it “the best thing ever” while trying to grab another helping.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat without sacrificing flavor; it’s key to a hearty filling.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional but flour tortillas work well too; just make sure they’re fresh.
Salsa: Choose your favorite—store-bought or homemade—for that zesty kick; try mild or spicy depending on your crowd.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds creaminess to each bite.
Onion: Sautéed onions lend sweetness and depth; don’t skip this step for maximum flavor!
Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder add warmth; adjust quantities based on your spice tolerance.
For the Topping:
Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances out the spice; feel free to use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brightens up the dish with freshness; sprinkle generously if you’re a fan!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prepare your kitchen by gathering all ingredients before starting; it makes everything smoother.
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown one pound of ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat for a healthier filling.
Add Flavor: Stir in diced onions along with cumin and chili powder until onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes works wonders.
Add Salsa: Mix in two cups of salsa, letting it simmer for about 10 minutes. This melds all those delightful flavors together into one delicious mixture.
Assemble Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle cheese liberally inside before rolling tightly and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
Bake Until Golden: Top rolled enchiladas with remaining salsa and cheese. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—your kitchen will smell divine!
Serve With Style: Once done baking, let them cool slightly before garnishing with sour cream and fresh cilantro. Serve hot alongside extra salsa for dipping!
Enjoy every cheesy bite of these Ground Beef Enchiladas as you reminisce about family gatherings or simply indulge after a long day. Each mouthful promises warmth and satisfaction that fills both belly and heart!
You Must Know
- Ground beef enchiladas are a weeknight wonder; they’re quick, easy, and satisfyingly cheesy
- The blend of spices creates a symphony of flavors that dance in your mouth
- Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them perfect for busy nights when time is tight
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic before adding spices. Prepare your tortillas while the beef simmers, ensuring everything is hot and ready for assembly at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with toppings like avocado or sour cream to elevate your enchiladas.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease; it keeps enchiladas light yet flavorful
- Pre-soaking tortillas in warm sauce prevents tearing and ensures they roll easily
- Don’t skip the cheese topping; it adds melty goodness and elevates every bite!
I remember the first time I made these enchiladas for my friends—they practically licked their plates clean! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoy my cooking so much.
FAQ
Can I make ground beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them in advance and store them covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or lentils work well as tasty alternatives for these enchiladas.
How do I prevent my tortillas from breaking?
Warm the tortillas briefly before filling them; this makes them more pliable and less likely to tear.
Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ground Beef Enchiladas are a comforting classic that combines seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and zesty salsa wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for busy nights or family gatherings, these enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table. With a golden-brown top and customizable fillings, they’re a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups salsa (mild or spicy)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink; drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced onions, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder; cook until onions are translucent.
- Add salsa to the skillet and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Top with remaining salsa and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using taco seasoning instead of individual spices. Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option. To prevent tortillas from breaking, warm them briefly in the microwave before filling.







