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Beef Enchiladas Recipe

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4.2 from 7 reviews

This classic Beef Enchiladas recipe features tender, spiced ground beef wrapped in warm tortillas, topped with rich enchilada sauce and a cheesy golden finish. Perfect for a comforting Mexican-inspired meal, it combines bold flavors from cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika with melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. Serve with fresh toppings like cilantro, green onions, avocado, sour cream, and lime wedges for a delicious and satisfying dinner.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce, plus extra for topping

Enchiladas

  • 8 flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Toppings and Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sliced green onions
  • Diced avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked with no pink remaining, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  2. Season the Beef: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Add a splash of enchilada sauce to keep the mixture moist and enhance flavor. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the spices are well blended and the filling is seasoned throughout.
  3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Tortillas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a dry skillet until pliable and easy to roll.
  4. Assemble the Enchiladas: Place a spoonful of the beef filling down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, arranging the rolled enchiladas snugly side by side.
  5. Add Sauce and Extra Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish. Generously sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
  6. Bake the Enchiladas: Bake uncovered in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
  7. Serve with Toppings: Garnish the enchiladas with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced avocado, and sour cream. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for an added zesty finish.

Notes

  • Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option; ensure they are soft to avoid cracking when rolled.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.
  • Leftover enchiladas can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • To make ahead, assemble the enchiladas but wait to add sauce and cheese until ready to bake.
  • For added flavor, consider adding diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef filling.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican