Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a family favorite, combining savory ground beef with melted cheese and a zesty enchilada sauce. They are simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Delicious cheesy filling that everyone will enjoy
- Can be customized with your favorite toppings and sauces
A Family Favorite
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are sure to become a go-to recipe for your family. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and flavorful enchilada sauce creates a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.
Whether it's a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these enchiladas are versatile enough for any occasion. They can be served as a comforting dinner or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party. Plus, they reheat well, making them an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas is their adaptability. You can easily switch out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian version. The choice of cheese is also up to you; try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings. Beyond the classic sour cream and cilantro, consider adding diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of lime juice to elevate the flavors. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a dish that suits your family's preferences.
Tips for Perfect Enchiladas
To ensure your enchiladas roll up easily without tearing, warm the tortillas slightly before filling them. This makes them more pliable and less likely to break. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for about 30 seconds, or you can briefly heat them in a dry skillet.
If you're making these enchiladas ahead of time, consider assembling them without baking, covering them tightly, and refrigerating until you're ready to cook. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
Gather all your ingredients and get ready to make these delicious enchiladas!
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat, then stir in the enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce. Take a tortilla, fill it with the beef mixture and a handful of cheese, then roll it up tightly.
Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and jalapeños on top.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas!
Nutritional Information
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas provide a hearty meal packed with protein thanks to the ground beef and cheese. A serving typically contains a good balance of carbohydrates from the flour tortillas and fiber if you choose to add veggies like bell peppers or beans into the filling.
Keep in mind, the nutritional values can vary significantly based on your ingredient choices. Opting for low-fat cheese or whole-wheat tortillas can make this dish a healthier option while still maintaining its delicious taste.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to cover them with foil in a preheated oven so they heat evenly without drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Freezing is also an option! You can easily freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and they can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure everything is heated through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Yes! Assemble the enchiladas and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra time.
→ What toppings can I use?
You can top them with sour cream, avocado, green onions, or any of your favorite toppings!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Created by: Piper Andrews
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Enchiladas
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat, then stir in the enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce. Take a tortilla, fill it with the beef mixture and a handful of cheese, then roll it up tightly. Place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and jalapeños on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 24g