Beef enchiladas are a savory, satisfying dish that brings together tender beef, warm tortillas, and a rich, flavorful enchilada sauce. This Mexican classic is loved for its bold flavors, comforting texture, and the perfect balance of savory beef and spicy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, hosting a gathering, or craving a hearty meal, beef enchiladas are a go-to choice that never disappoints.
The key to great beef enchiladas is the beef filling. Ground beef is typically sautéed with onions, garlic, and a mix of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, giving it a deliciously savory and slightly smoky flavor. You can also add some diced tomatoes, green chilies, or olives for extra depth and texture. Once cooked, the beef mixture is spooned onto tortillas and rolled up, ready to be covered in a rich enchilada sauce.
The enchilada sauce is what really brings this dish to life. Made from a base of red chilies, tomatoes, garlic, and onions, the sauce is perfectly spiced and full of flavor. It’s typically poured over the rolled tortillas before baking, soaking into them and adding a delicious, tangy, and slightly spicy kick. For an added touch of richness, you can sprinkle cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, on top of the sauce, allowing it to melt and form a golden, bubbly layer.
After baking, the beef enchiladas are ready to be served. You can top them with sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, or even a few slices of avocado for a fresh, creamy contrast to the spiced beef and sauce. These enchiladas are best enjoyed with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a simple salad.
Beef enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing dish that can easily be made in large batches, making them perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. You can also customize the filling to your liking by adding vegetables or using a different protein, like chicken or pork. No matter how you make them, beef enchiladas are always a delicious and hearty meal that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 pieces flour tortillas medium size
- 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 can enchilada sauce approximately 15 oz
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place a portion of the beef mixture and some shredded cheese in each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the enchiladas hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
Nutrition
These were amazing! My family devoured them. Will definitely make again.
This is the best recipe ever!! I made it twice this week! Yummy!
Totally agree! These enchiladas are a game changer! Can’t wait to make them again.
Delicious! I used turkey instead of beef and they turned out fine. Will make again!
I am not a good cook, but this was pretty simple. My kids loved it!
Omg! So good! I added beans and corn too. Recommend!
Too much cheese, like a cheese mountain! I can’t even see the enchiladas!
I like a lot of cheese! You can always use less if you want. It’s delicious that way!
I don’t understand all the fuss. They were good, but I’ve had better. Too cheesy maybe?
Why do you have to cook the beef beforehand? Can’t you just put it in raw? It’s easier that way!
Easy recipe! Used leftover roast beef and it still tasted great. Thanks!
I don’t know about using roast beef. Isn’t that like a whole different recipe? 🤔
Glad you liked it! Using leftovers is such a smart idea. Makes cooking easy!
These enchiladas were a hit at our family dinner! Super easy to make.
I don’t know, looks kinda basic. How do you make it not taste like cardboard? 🤔
So glad to hear that! We had them at our last party and everyone loved too! 😍
Enchiladas are not Mexican food! I don’t know who decided that, but it ain’t right.