Beef Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that combines seasoned beef, melty cheese, and flavorful enchilada sauce, all wrapped up in warm tortillas and baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a meal for family dinner or hosting a gathering, these enchiladas are a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
What Are Beef Enchiladas?
Beef enchiladas are made by filling tortillas with seasoned ground beef, rolling them up, and baking them in enchilada sauce with a generous topping of cheese. The dish has layers of flavor, from the zesty enchilada sauce to the seasoned beef filling, and is often served with sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas
To make these delicious enchiladas, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can enchilada sauce (about 15 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- Chopped cilantro and sour cream (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Health Benefits of Beef and Enchiladas
Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins. Paired with the fiber from corn tortillas and the calcium from cheese, this dish provides a hearty, balanced meal that’s rich in nutrients. For a lighter version, you can opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey.
For more comfort food ideas, try this Classic Beef Lasagna for another crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Beef Enchiladas
Follow these easy steps to make your beef enchiladas:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Add the ground beef and taco seasoning, breaking the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove from heat.
Step 2: Fill and Roll the Tortillas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour about 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture into each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and roll them up tightly. Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Enchiladas
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For another flavorful Mexican-inspired recipe, check out these Spicy Southwest Stuffed Baked Potatoes.
Variations of Beef Enchiladas
Here are a few ways to customize this dish:
- Add veggies: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Cheese enchiladas: Make it vegetarian by swapping the beef with beans or simply using more cheese and vegetables.
- Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Best Occasions to Serve Beef Enchiladas
Beef enchiladas are perfect for:
- Family dinners: They’re easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd.
- Parties or gatherings: Serve enchiladas as part of a Mexican-themed meal or buffet.
- Meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze individual portions for quick meals during the week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some tips to ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly:
- Overfilling the tortillas: Be sure not to overstuff the tortillas, or they may break during rolling.
- Skipping the sauce: Adding sauce to the bottom of the dish prevents the tortillas from sticking and helps keep them moist.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the enchiladas during the final minutes to ensure they don’t dry out.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.
2. Can I freeze beef enchiladas?
Absolutely. Prepare the enchiladas without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15–20 minutes to the cooking time.
3. What toppings go best with enchiladas?
Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado for a fresh and delicious finish.
Conclusion
Beef Enchiladas are a classic, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With tender, seasoned beef wrapped in tortillas and smothered in enchilada sauce and cheese, this recipe is a go-to for family dinners, gatherings, or weeknight meals.
For more hearty dinner ideas, try this Creamy Tuscan Chicken for a comforting meal full of flavor.