Main Dishes

Ground Beef Enchiladas

Name: Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream and cilantro for serving (optional)

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Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delightful and hearty dish that pays homage to the comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine. With layers of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and a zesty enchilada sauce wrapped in soft flour tortillas, this recipe promises to be a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gathering with friends, these enchiladas come together quickly and are sure to impress.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 550
Protein: 35 grams
Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Fat: 25 grams
Fiber: 7 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Ground Beef Enchiladas

Making Ground Beef Enchiladas is a fantastic way to bring vibrant flavors to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. The savory ground beef mixed with onions, garlic, cumin, and black beans offers a rich filling that is perfectly complemented by the melted cheese and zesty enchilada sauce. Plus, they are customizable—add your favorite toppings like sour cream or fresh cilantro for an extra touch. This recipe is not only satisfying but also easy enough for beginner cooks, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas

Creating these enchiladas is straightforward, beginning with the preparation of the filling and culminating in a bubbling dish of cheesy goodness. Follow the steps below to bring this delicious recipe to life!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
8 flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Sour cream and cilantro for serving (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for the enchiladas once assembled.
Step 2: Sautéing

In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Mixing

Stir in 1 cup of enchilada sauce, the rinsed black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined—this step infuses all the ingredients with flavor.
Step 4: Assembling

Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, then roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Once all tortillas are rolled, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Step 5: Baking

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 6: Serving

Serve hot, and top with sour cream and fresh cilantro if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas

Ground Beef Enchiladas are perfect for serving at casual family dinners or fun gatherings. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad to create a well-rounded meal. When entertaining, consider setting up a taco bar so guests can customize their enchiladas with different toppings, such as jalapeños, guacamole, or diced tomatoes.

How to Store Ground Beef Enchiladas

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.

Expert Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Enchiladas

For added flavor, use ground beef that’s 80/20 for a balance of flavor and juiciness.
Experiment with different types of cheese—Monterey Jack enhances the dish with a creamy texture.
Don’t skimp on the enchilada sauce! It keeps the tortillas moist and adds a punch of flavor.
If you prefer spicier enchiladas, opt for hot enchilada sauce or add diced green chilies to the filling.
Ensure the enchiladas are rolled tightly to prevent them from unrolling during baking.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize these enchiladas to suit your tastes! Consider substituting the ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also use corn tortillas instead of flour if you desire a gluten-free alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I prevent my enchiladas from drying out?
To keep enchiladas moist, generously cover them with enchilada sauce before baking and cover them with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking if they seem to brown too quickly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or a mix of mushrooms and black beans can be great alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian dish.
Can I make these enchiladas spicy?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños to the filling or use a spicy enchilada sauce to kick up the heat.
What should I serve with Ground Beef Enchiladas?
A side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad goes perfectly with these enchiladas. Don’t forget toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa!

Conclusion

Ground Beef Enchiladas are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with satisfying flavors and comforting textures. Their ease of preparation ensures that delicious homemade enchiladas can be a reality any night of the week. So grab your ingredients, get your family involved, and enjoy the wonderful taste of this classic dish. Happy cooking!