There’s something absolutely irresistible about Beef Enchiladas – that magical combination of tender beef, gooey cheese, and vibrant, zesty sauce rolled up in soft tortillas. This recipe captures everything I love about classic Tex-Mex: savory spiced meat, a gentle kick of green chiles, and a bubbling blanket of cheese. Whether you’re hoping for a cozy weeknight meal or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, Beef Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food that gets everyone gathered around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I adore most about making Beef Enchiladas is how every ingredient shines yet works together for the richest flavor and texture. You’ll find no filler here—just the simple, colorful staples that make this dish a favorite.
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Go for 80/20 for more flavor, and make sure to break it up well as it browns for the best filling texture.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Adds a bit of richness, helping the onions and beef get perfectly golden.
- Small Onion, diced (1): Essential for that subtle sweetness in every bite.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Bring out bold, aromatic undertones by letting it sizzle with the spices.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp): Adds earthiness and that classic Mexican warmth.
- Chili Powder (1 tsp): Infuses the filling with vibrant color and gentle heat.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 tsp): Don’t skip this—it delivers a subtle smokiness that takes the beef to a new level.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Just enough to balance and intensify every flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): A little bite goes a long way.
- Diced Green Chiles, canned (4 oz): For a pop of tangy brightness—these make the dish sing!
- Red Enchilada Sauce, canned (15 oz): Store-bought works well, but homemade is fantastic if you have time.
- Flour Tortillas, 8-inch (8): Soft and pliable, simply perfect for stuffing and rolling. Substitute corn for a classic, gluten-free version.
- Shredded Cheddar or Mexican Blend Cheese (2 cups): Don’t be shy here—cheese is the golden crown!
- Fresh Cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkling some on top adds color and a burst of herbal freshness.
- Sour Cream & Sliced Jalapeños (optional, for serving): Creamy and spicy finishes—optional, but highly recommended for serving.
How to Make Beef Enchiladas
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get out your trusty skillet. Pour in the olive oil and set the pan over medium heat. Add your diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and glossy. This step builds the savory base that flavors the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef directly to the pan with the onions. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon, until no pink remains—usually about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, drain it off so the filling doesn’t get greasy.
Step 3: Spice Things Up
Now stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for just one minute to toast the spices and wake up their flavors, stirring constantly so nothing burns. This stage is when your kitchen starts to smell incredible!
Step 4: Add Green Chiles and Sauce
Pour in the diced green chiles and a quarter cup of your enchilada sauce. Give everything a gentle mix until the beef mixture is coated and smells outrageously good. Take the pan off the heat so you don’t overcook the beef.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a half cup of enchilada sauce across the bottom. This little pool prevents sticking and ensures every bite is saucy and flavorful.
Step 6: Fill and Roll the Tortillas
Scoop a generous amount of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with some cheese, and roll tightly. The tighter you roll, the easier your Beef Enchiladas will hold their shape when serving. Place each roll seam side down in the dish.
Step 7: Finish with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the rest of the enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas and top with the remaining cheese. This ensures a gorgeous golden cap once baked—so satisfying to pull from the oven!
Step 8: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and give them 5 to 10 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling with tempting golden spots. Just let them cool slightly before serving—you don’t want to lose any filling in your excitement!
How to Serve Beef Enchiladas
Garnishes
Add the finishing touch with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a few sliced jalapeños for a creamy-spicy combo. Each brings coolness, color, and freshness to balance the rich filling of Beef Enchiladas.
Side Dishes
Pair your Beef Enchiladas with fluffy Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crunchy cabbage slaw to create a well-rounded, festive meal. A side of guacamole and tortilla chips is always a crowd favorite, too!
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the enchiladas in half for a party platter or stacking them atop a bed of greens for a deconstructed beef enchilada salad. For special occasions, serve with mini lime wedges and vibrant radishes for extra zing and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. Beef Enchiladas keep well for up to three days and taste nearly as delicious reheated—the flavors only deepen overnight.
Freezing
These are wonderfully freezer-friendly! Assemble the Beef Enchiladas in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap before baking, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat the enchiladas covered in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a speedy lunch. Add a touch more cheese before reheating for an extra melty topping!
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas offer a classic flavor and a gluten-free twist. Warm them a bit before rolling to prevent cracking.
How spicy are these Beef Enchiladas?
This recipe is pleasantly mild, but you can easily ramp up the heat by choosing hot enchilada sauce or adding chopped chipotle peppers.
What’s the best cheese for Beef Enchiladas?
I love a Mexican blend or sharp cheddar, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella are also deliciously melty options. Try mixing cheeses for more depth!
Can I prepare Beef Enchiladas ahead for a crowd?
Definitely—assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and store in the fridge. When it’s go-time, simply bake as directed. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Do I need to cover the enchiladas while baking?
Yes, start covered to keep them moist, then finish uncovered for that classic cheesy, bubbly top. This two-step bake means perfect texture every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something satisfying and guaranteed to impress, you have to give these Beef Enchiladas a try! They’re hearty, packed with flavor, and truly a dish made for sharing. Gather your favorite people and let the good times—and big flavors—roll!
Print
Beef Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 enchiladas
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Beef Enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing Mexican favorite, filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and flavorful spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
For Assembly:
- 1 (15 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- sour cream and sliced jalapeños (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Saute the beef: In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and ground beef until browned. Add spices and green chiles.
- Assemble: Fill tortillas with beef mixture and cheese, roll up, and place in a baking dish.
- Bake: Pour enchilada sauce over the filled tortillas, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve with optional sour cream and jalapeños.
Notes
- You can use corn tortillas for a more traditional version.
- For a spicier dish, add chipotle peppers or hot enchilada sauce.
- These enchiladas also freeze well before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
