Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

Name: Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 8 small flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup enchilada sauce; 1/2 cup sour cream; Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious and simple twist on a classic Mexican dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, they are sure to be a hit!

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:27:42.370Z

Enchiladas are a beloved staple in many households, and this easy recipe combines the heartiness of ground beef with the gooey goodness of cheese. These enchiladas are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

        Why You'll Love These Enchiladas
        Rich and savory beef filling with melted cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal, these Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas shine as a fantastic choice. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they can also be made in just under an hour, making them a great solution for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and simple cooking steps, you can whip up this delicious dish and spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

The combination of seasonings in the beef filling, paired with the gooey melted cheese, creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you're coming home from work or just want a simple meal to prepare with your kids, these enchiladas fit the bill perfectly.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of these enchiladas is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a healthier option. Adding black beans or corn can also introduce new textures and flavors to your dish.

Moreover, the toppings for these enchiladas are limitless. From avocado slices to jalapeños, you can get creative and cater to different taste buds. Consider setting up a toppings bar when serving, allowing everyone to personalize their enchiladas with their favorite condiments and garnishes.

Make Ahead and Freeze

If you're meal prepping or looking to save time, these enchiladas can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. Assemble the enchiladas and before the baking step, cover them tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to have a homemade meal ready in a pinch!

Additionally, these enchiladas can be stored in the fridge for up to three days after baking. Just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch or dinner option, ensuring you still get that gooey, cheesy goodness without the extra effort.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt
8 small flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping

1 cup enchilada sauce
1/2 cup sour cream
Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Add Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On each tortilla, place a portion of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with sour cream and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade enchiladas!

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

To ensure you get the best flavor from your enchiladas, don’t skimp on the seasoning. Taste the beef mixture before assembling and adjust the spices according to your preference. If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for an extra kick.

Another tip is to slightly warm your tortillas before filling them. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear when you roll them up. You can easily warm them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for a few seconds.

Serving Suggestions

These enchiladas pair beautifully with a simple side salad or some seasoned rice. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the enchiladas, providing a refreshing contrast. You can also serve them with Mexican-style rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

For beverages, consider a chilled margarita or a refreshing agua fresca to complement the flavors of the dish. The right drink can elevate your meal experience, making it feel like a festive occasion, even on a regular weeknight!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.

→ Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas and refrigerate them before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I serve with enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.