This hearty ground beef enchiladas recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with savory flavors and topped with melted cheese, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy your cravings for Mexican cuisine. The combination of seasoned ground beef, beans, and a delicious enchilada sauce wrapped in warm tortillas makes this a comforting and delightful dish.
Photos of Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
When preparing this recipe, there are a few ingredients you might not always have on hand. Enchilada sauce is essential for the recipe's authenticity and can usually be found in the international foods aisle. Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese are commonly available, but it's worth checking the cheese section at your supermarket. Additionally, taco seasoning packets are typically found in the spice or Mexican food section.
Ingredients For Ground Beef Enchiladas
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base to the filling.
Garlic cloves: Provides a rich, aromatic flavor to the beef mixture.
Ground beef: The main protein component of the dish, providing a rich and hearty taste.
Pinto beans: Adds texture and an earthy flavor to the filling.
Taco seasoning packet: Enhances the flavor with a blend of Mexican spices.
Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other spices.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Monterey Jack cheese: A mild, creamy cheese that melts beautifully on top of the enchiladas.
Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to balance the Monterey Jack cheese.
Corn tortillas: The base of the enchiladas, providing a traditional texture and flavor.
Enchilada sauce: A rich, flavorful sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
One reader, Harriott Serna says:
These ground beef enchiladas are fantastic! The flavors blend perfectly, and the cheesy topping is irresistible. The recipe is easy to follow and delivers a delicious, satisfying meal. My family loved it, and we'll definitely make it again. Highly recommend!
Key Techniques for Making Ground Beef Enchiladas
How to brown ground beef: Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is no longer pink. How to drain fat: After browning the ground beef, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to remove excess fat, or pour it out carefully. How to simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture gently, allowing it to thicken without boiling. How to heat tortillas: Follow the package directions, which typically involve microwaving or warming them in a skillet until they are soft and pliable. How to roll enchiladas: Place the filling in the center of the tortilla, fold the sides over the filling, and roll it up tightly.
How To Make Ground Beef Enchiladas
Level up your tortilla with these ground beef enchiladas made with a meaty ground beef filling wrapped in a corn tortilla and baked until bubbly.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1onion,diced
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- 1lbGround Beef
- 15ozpinto beans,drained and rinsed, optional
- 1taco seasoning packet
- ½tspcumin
- ¼tspsalt,to taste
- 2½cupsmonterey jack cheese,shredded, or cheddar cheese
- ½cupcheddar cheese,shredded
- 12corn tortillas
- 28ozenchilada sauce
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Brown ground beef, onions, and garlic until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
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Stir in beans, seasonings, ¼ cup enchilada sauce, and ⅓ cup water, and salt. Simmer until thickened.
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Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Heat tortillas according to package directions until soft.
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Place 2 tablespoons of cheese and ⅓ cup beef filling in each enchilada. Roll and place seam side down in the pan.
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Top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheeses. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes uncovered or until cheese is melted and filling is hot.
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Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 858.05kcal
- Fat: 37.85g
- Saturated Fat: 18.77g
- Trans Fat: 1.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.96g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.04g
- Carbohydrates: 80.13g
- Fiber: 16.73g
- Sugar: 11.96g
- Protein: 49.61g
- Cholesterol: 113.85mg
- Sodium: 1629.36mg
- Calcium: 632.66mg
- Potassium: 1376.15mg
- Iron: 7.29mg
- Vitamin A: 141.93µg
- Vitamin C: 9.07mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Enchilada Technique
To ensure your corn tortillas don't crack when rolling, warm them up by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for about 30 seconds. This makes them more pliable and easier to work with.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prepare the filling: Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic in advance and store in the fridge. This will save you time on the day you plan to make the enchiladas.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded monterey jack and cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.
Heat tortillas in bulk: Warm all the corn tortillas at once in the microwave by wrapping them in a damp paper towel. This will make them pliable and save you time.
Opt for canned beans: Use canned pinto beans instead of cooking them from scratch to save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in place of onions for a more subtle taste.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used to reduce the fat content of the dish.
pinto beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans have a similar texture and can be used to add a slightly different flavor profile.
taco seasoning packet - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: Combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt to create a homemade version.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a similar earthy flavor and can be used in place of cumin.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a similar meltability and mild flavor, making it a good substitute.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with colby cheese: Colby cheese has a similar texture and flavor profile to cheddar.
corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used if you prefer a softer texture or if corn tortillas are not available.
enchilada sauce - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can be used as a substitute for enchilada sauce, providing a different but still flavorful option.
Plating and Presentation Ideas
Use smaller portion sizes: Present the enchiladas in smaller, more refined portions to maintain elegance and allow for a more controlled presentation.
Create a vibrant sauce drizzle: Use the remaining enchilada sauce to create an artistic drizzle on the plate, adding visual appeal and enhancing the flavor profile.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing with finely chopped cilantro or parsley, providing a burst of color and a hint of herbaceous aroma.
Incorporate a side salad: Complement the rich flavors of the enchiladas with a light, crisp side salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.
Use high-quality cheese: Ensure the monterey jack cheese and cheddar cheese are freshly grated and of the highest quality for a superior melt and flavor.
Plate with precision: Arrange the enchiladas neatly on the plate, ensuring each one is evenly spaced and the seams are facing down for a clean presentation.
Add a dollop of crema: Place a small dollop of Mexican crema or sour cream on top of each enchilada for a creamy contrast to the spicy filling.
Include a lime wedge: Add a wedge of lime on the side of the plate to provide a fresh, zesty option for diners to squeeze over their enchiladas.
Serve on elegant dishware: Use high-quality, elegant dishware to elevate the overall presentation and make the dish feel more luxurious.
Finish with a sprinkle of spices: Lightly dust the plate with a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to enhance the visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor.
Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need
Oven: Used to bake the enchiladas until the cheese is melted and the filling is hot.
Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef, onions, and garlic.
Spatula: Handy for stirring the beef mixture and ensuring even cooking.
Colander: Useful for draining any excess fat from the browned beef.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring out the cumin, salt, and water accurately.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the enchilada sauce, cheese, and water.
Baking dish: The vessel in which the enchiladas will be assembled and baked.
Mixing bowl: Helpful for combining the beans, seasonings, and beef mixture.
Knife: Needed for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
Can opener: Required for opening the cans of pinto beans and enchilada sauce.
Tongs: Useful for handling the tortillas after they are heated.
Cheese grater: If you are using block cheese, this will be needed to grate the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
Aluminum foil: Optional, but can be used to cover the baking dish if you want to prevent the cheese from browning too much.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for ground beef enchiladas:
- Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and help maintain their texture.
- Refrigerating: Place the cooled enchiladas in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing:
- Wrap the cooled enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets. Then, wrap them in a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped enchiladas with the date and contents, so you can easily identify them later.
- Place the wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Frozen enchiladas can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating from the refrigerator:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the enchiladas from the container or unwrap them from the plastic wrap or foil.
- Place the enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent them from drying out.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Reheating from frozen:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the frozen enchiladas from the freezer and unwrap them from the plastic wrap and foil.
- Place the enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to achieve a crispier top, if desired.
- When reheating, you can optionally top the enchiladas with extra shredded cheese or enchilada sauce to refresh their flavor and appearance.
How To Reheat Leftover Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover them with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the enchiladas from drying out and ensure even heating. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can also reheat the enchiladas in the oven without the foil cover. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas are slightly crispy.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help keep them moist during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. The exact time will depend on the number of enchiladas and the power of your microwave.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the enchiladas and get a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the enchiladas in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a stovetop method, place the enchiladas in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat the enchiladas for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. You can add a splash of water or enchilada sauce to the pan to prevent them from drying out.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the enchiladas until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature before serving.
Interesting Trivia About Ground Beef Enchiladas
A fun fact about this ground beef enchiladas recipe is that enchiladas originated in Mexico, where the practice of rolling tortillas around other food dates back at least to Aztec times.
Budget-Friendly: Making Enchiladas at Home
This ground beef enchiladas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like ground beef, pinto beans, and corn tortillas are affordable and widely available. The use of taco seasoning and enchilada sauce adds flavor without breaking the bank. With a total cost of approximately $15-$20, it serves 4 people generously. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are Ground Beef Enchiladas Healthy or Unhealthy?
This ground beef enchilada recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High in saturated fat due to the ground beef and cheeses
- Refined carbohydrates from the corn tortillas
- Sodium content from the taco seasoning and enchilada sauce
- Lack of vegetables and fiber
However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, such as:
- Protein from the ground beef and beans
- Fiber and nutrients from the pinto beans
- Onions and garlic, which offer some antioxidants and flavor
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use lean ground beef (90% or higher) or substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- Reduce the amount of cheese or opt for low-fat varieties
- Choose whole wheat or sprouted grain tortillas for added fiber and nutrients
- Make your own enchilada sauce to control the sodium content
- Add more vegetables to the filling, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal
- Use Greek yogurt or avocado slices as a topping instead of sour cream for a healthier fat source
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of this classic comfort food while still satisfying your cravings for a flavorful and hearty meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Enchilada Recipe
This ground beef enchiladas recipe is a solid, flavorful choice for a weeknight dinner. The combination of seasoned beef, beans, and melted cheese wrapped in soft corn tortillas creates a comforting and satisfying dish. The use of both monterey jack and cheddar cheeses adds a nice depth of flavor. However, consider adding some fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten up the dish. Overall, it's a hearty and delicious meal that is sure to please.
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Why trust this Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe:
This ground beef enchiladas recipe is a surefire hit, combining the rich flavors of seasoned beef, pinto beans, and a blend of monterey jack and cheddar cheese. The enchilada sauce ties everything together, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for beginners. Trust this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
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