These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are like a warm hug on a plate! Filled with tasty beef, beans, and plenty of cheese, they are smothered in rich sauce.
Picture this: a cheesy delight that makes weeknight dinners easy and fun. I love serving these with a side of crispy chips—perfect for scooping up leftovers (if there are any)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best to avoid extra grease. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer plant-based, try using lentils or a meat alternative.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, white beans or pinto beans work just as well. You can also skip them entirely for a beefier enchilada.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic and offers great flavor. I love mixing it with Monterey Jack for a nice melt. If you want it lighter, use reduced-fat cheese or a vegan cheese blend.
Enchilada Sauce: A can of red enchilada sauce is super convenient. If you’re up for it, making your own sauce can elevate the dish. You can also use green sauce for a different flavor.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Rolled Enchiladas?
The key to rolling your tortillas without tearing is to warm them first. Just put them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or lightly pan-fry them in a dry skillet until soft. This makes them flexible and easier to roll.
- After warming, place the filling in the center, leaving space on the edges.
- Fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the bottom up tightly.
- Place seam side down in your baking dish to keep them closed.
With practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Happy rolling!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and salsa for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty enchilada recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake the enchiladas!
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once it’s nice and cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This gives your beef a lovely flavor!
4. Spice It Up:
Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper for some extra flavor. Then, add the black beans and 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This helps keep the enchiladas from sticking and adds flavor!
6. Fill the Tortillas:
Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until they’re soft and pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle a little of the shredded cheese over the mixture. This helps keep the filling moist!
7. Roll Them Up:
Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly and place it seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with all the tortillas until they’re all filled and tucked away!
8. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring each one is covered well. Then, sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese evenly across the top for that gooey finish.
9. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for extra freshness. Serve them warm with sides of sour cream, jalapeños, and salsa if desired.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy ground beef enchiladas!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour?
Yes, corn tortillas are a great gluten-free alternative! Just make sure to warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking. If they break, you can dip them in the enchilada sauce before filling for added flavor and moisture!
How Can I Store Leftover Enchiladas?
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container and separated, if possible. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Ground Beef?
If you’d like to switch it up, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative such as lentils or textured vegetable protein. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste!
Can I Make These Enchiladas Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, include diced jalapeños in the beef mixture or use a spicy enchilada sauce. You can also serve them with pickled jalapeños or a spicy salsa on the side for an extra kick!
