There’s something magical about the aroma of cheesy ground beef enchiladas wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to family gatherings where laughter and good food filled the air. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, these enchiladas are easy to whip up and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish brings comfort and joy. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
These cheesy ground beef enchiladas are a game-changer for any home cook. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying option for busy nights. The rich flavors of seasoned beef and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas create a taste explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these cheesy ground beef enchiladas. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: The star of the show! Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the flavor.
Chili powder: This spice gives the enchiladas their signature warmth and color.
Cumin: A hint of earthiness that complements the beef beautifully.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Enchilada sauce: A rich, tangy sauce that ties everything together. You can use store-bought or homemade.
Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, they wrap around the filling perfectly.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey goodness that melts into a delicious topping.
Sour cream: A creamy dollop on top adds a cool contrast to the spicy enchiladas.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian twist, black beans work wonderfully as a filling. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
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How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring these cheesy ground beef enchiladas to life! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake your enchiladas, giving them that perfect bubbly cheese topping.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat; we want the filling to be flavorful, not greasy!
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Next, stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. These spices are the secret to that mouthwatering flavor. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove the skillet from heat. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now!
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom. This will keep the enchiladas from sticking and add extra flavor to the base.
Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
Now comes the fun part! Take a flour tortilla and place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture and 2 tablespoons of cheese in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this for all the tortillas until the dish is filled.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they’re well-coated. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This is where the magic happens—who doesn’t love a cheesy topping?
Step 7: Bake the Enchiladas
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s hard to resist peeking in!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the enchiladas cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro, if desired. Now, dig in and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Tips for Success
Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Warm the tortillas slightly before filling to make them more pliable.
Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s the star of the show!
Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Experiment with toppings like avocado or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great for browning the beef.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any oven-safe dish will do.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing and breaking up the beef.
Measuring cups: Handy for portioning out ingredients.
Variations of Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Spicy Enchiladas: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce for a fiery kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables for a hearty meatless meal.
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas: Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and tasty alternative.
Southwestern Twist: Mix in corn, black beans, and diced bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful filling.
Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini or eggplant slices instead of tortillas for a lighter, low-carb option.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the richness of the enchiladas.
Rice and Beans: Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
Drink Pairing: A cold cerveza or a refreshing margarita pairs perfectly with the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas and assemble them in the baking dish. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans, lentils, or even sautéed mushrooms for a hearty filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They make for a quick and delicious lunch!
Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they’re heated through.
What toppings can I add to my enchiladas?
The possibilities are endless! Consider adding sliced avocado, jalapeños, or fresh salsa. A sprinkle of green onions or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors. Enjoy customizing your dish!
Final Thoughts
Cooking cheesy ground beef enchiladas is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The joy of rolling those tortillas, the aroma filling your kitchen, and the smiles around the table make it all worthwhile. This dish is a celebration of flavors and comfort, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas bring everyone together. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every cheesy bite. Trust me, once you serve these, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!
A delicious recipe for cheesy ground beef enchiladas that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (15 ounces) enchilada sauce
8 flour tortillas (8-inch)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
To assemble the enchiladas, place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture and 2 tablespoons of cheese in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the enchiladas cool for 5 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and cilantro, if desired.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use black beans for a vegetarian version.
