If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and comforting meal, these beef enchiladas are just what you need. Packed with savory ground beef, fragrant spices, and melty cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The soft flour tortillas soak up the rich enchilada sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican-inspired dish, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. They’re easy to assemble and can be customized with different fillings and toppings. The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese ensures a gooey, creamy finish that makes these enchiladas truly irresistible.
With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can have these enchiladas ready to serve in under an hour. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, they will quickly become a favorite in your household. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and perhaps a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
Serves: 4-6
Ready in: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8-10 flour tortillas
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- ½ cup sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in ½ cup of enchilada sauce and mix until the beef is evenly coated. Remove from heat.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Fill each tortilla with a portion of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well covered. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a generous dollop of sour cream.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Choices: Try using pepper jack, mozzarella, or queso fresco for a different cheesy twist.
- Sauce Options: Use green enchilada sauce instead of red for a tangy variation.
Tips
- Warm the tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent them from cracking.
- For extra crispiness, lightly fry the tortillas in a dry skillet before filling them.
- Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking to help the flavors meld together.
- Serve with a side of guacamole, pico de gallo, or a simple Mexican salad for a complete meal.
These cheesy beef enchiladas are a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!