Beef Enchiladas
17 Comments
Posted: 04/02/24
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This easy dinner recipe is always a hit with the family! Easy Beef Enchiladas have soft tortillas filled with ground beef, cheese and green chiles that are covered with enchilada sauce and more cheese.
These are my favorite simple ground beef enchiladas that are super kid-friendly. They have a green chile beef filling and are topped with lots of enchilada sauce and cheese. They’re always a family favorite.
It’s not my only enchiladas recipe, of course, so if you’re looking for other ideas, you have to try my shrimp enchiladas and creamy chicken enchiladas, too! Make this a super quick dinner and even as a great make-ahead freezer meal. Everyone loves cheesy beef enchiladas, and you’re going to love how easy they are to make!
Why You Will Love This Easy Recipe
- When I say these are easy, I mean it – you only need five ingredients! Super easy to make and even keep the ingredient on hand to make them whenever you want.
- The green chiles add so much flavor to these ground beef enchiladas. These are restaurant quality enchiladas!
- You only need 15 minutes of prep time to make this easy dish. The total time is about an hour, but most of that is just bake time!
- Serve these enchiladas with all of your favorite enchilada toppings like sour cream, avocado, lettuce, and tomatoes.
Ingredients Needed
- Ground beef – You can also use ground turkey if you prefer. I do recommend using lean ground beef so that the enchiladas are not too greasy.
- Red enchilada sauce – Use your favorite store bought sauce or make homemade enchilada sauce. This is an easy way to control the level of “heat” in your enchiladas too.
- Canned diced green chiles – I buy the mild chiles for the kiddos, but you can use the spicy ones for some heat.
- Soft taco shells – I use 6-inch flour tortillas, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Or use shredded Mexican blend cheese. Remember getting a block and shredding it yourself is always going to have the best result.
Products Needed
How to Make Beef Enchiladas
Preheat the oven to 375°F and coat a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Brown the ground beef in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and then drain off the excess grease.
Add a 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce to the meat mixture along with the green chiles. Stir to combine.
Spread a 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce in the prepared baking dish.
To make the enchiladas, spoon 1/4 cup of the beef mixture down the center of a tortilla. Top it with one tablespoon of shredded cheese. Wrap the tortilla around the filling and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the rest of the tortillas.
Pour the rest of the sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake the beef enchiladas for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are hot and bubbly. Cool them at room temperature for five minutes before serving.
Add Your Favorite Toppings!
I have all the topping ideas for you! Here are some we love
- Serve them with some homemade salsa, green salsa, or pico de gallo. Add some chips on the side for dunking!
- Add a dollop of guacamole or top them with some diced avocado.
- We love them with a spoonful of sour cream.
- Add some chopped fresh cilantro for garnish or try some diced jalapenos.
- Add some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced red onions, or sliced green onions!
Variations
There are many ways to customize enchiladas to suit individual preferences. Here are a few variation ideas:
- Chicken Enchiladas: Simply substitute the beef with shredded chicken for a lighter option.
- Turkey Enchiladas: Use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or ground turkey for a leaner alternative to beef.
- Pork Enchiladas: For a more tender and juicy filling, swap ground beef for shredded pork.
- Cheesy Enchiladas: Add extra cheese to the filling or sprinkle it on top for a more indulgent dish.
- Spicy or Mild Enchiladas: Adjust the heat level by using more or less chili powder or adding jalapeños or other peppers.
- Green Enchilada Sauce: Use green enchilada sauce instead of red for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
Mix and match these ingredients to create endless combinations of flavors and textures. Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to find your perfect enchilada recipe.
Recipe FAQs
What are Beef Enchiladas?
The origins of beef enchiladas can be traced back to Mexico, where they were traditionally made with corn tortillas and a spicy chili sauce. Over time, this tex mex version of the dish has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and preparation methods, making it a favorite in many different cultures.
Today, beef enchiladas are enjoyed all over the world and can be found in many restaurants and homes. They are a great option for a quick and easy meal that is both flavorful and satisfying.
What kind of beef should I use for enchiladas?
Ground beef is the most common type of beef used in enchiladas, but you can also use shredded beef or steak. Just make sure the beef is cooked and mixed with the green chiles before adding it to the tortillas.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are more traditional in Mexican cuisine and can add a different flavor and texture to the enchiladas.
What kind of cheese should I use for beef enchiladas?
The most common cheese used in beef enchiladas is cheddar or a Mexican blend of cheeses. You can also use monterey jack, queso fresco, or any other cheese that you like. The more cheese, the better and fresh grated cheese will be more melty and gooey than pre-shredded!
Can I make beef enchiladas without cheese?
Yes, you can make beef enchiladas without cheese. Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you have a dairy allergy or intolerance. You can also try out a variety of dairy free cheese options on the market.
Pro Tips!
- Warm the tortillas before filling: This will make the tortillas more pliable and easier to work with. You can warm them in the oven or on a stovetop griddle.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas: It can be tempting to stuff the tortillas full of beef filling, but this can make them difficult to roll and can cause them to fall apart. Instead, use a moderate amount of filling and roll the tortillas tightly.
- Use plenty of sauce: The sauce is what gives the enchiladas their signature flavor.
Make Ahead & Storage Instructions
You can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance to bake later. If you do this, you may need to add some more enchilada sauce on top before they go in the oven. The tortillas will absorb it, so add a little more so they’re nice and saucy!
Place any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container and they will keep well for up three to four days in the fridge.
You can also freeze this dish! Make the ground beef enchiladas according to instructions, but don’t bake them. Wrap the baking dish in plastic wrap or foil and then place in the freezer. When you are ready to bake, just preheat the oven and pop in as normal. You will likely need to add on a few minutes of cook time.
The whole family will love when you make this beef enchilada recipe! The flavors are great and it’s so easy you’ll want it in your permanent dinner rotation. Enjoy!
More Mexican-Inspired Comfort Food
My family LOVES Mexican food so if yours is like mine, you need to try these recipes, too!
- Crock Pot Pork Carnitas is a really easy way to make this classic dish! Use the carnitas to make tacos, burritos, or nachos.
- Taco Casserole is a hearty dinner that’s great for a weeknight dinner!
- Use your slow cooker to make the best Crock Pot Chicken Tacos!
- Instant Pot Taco Soup is so easy to make and will warm you up on a cold day.
- Mexican Rice is super simple and a great side dish for taco night.
Did you make this? If you snap a photo, please be sure tag me on Instagram at @julieseatsandtreats or #julieseatsandtreats so I can see your yummy treat!
Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Quick and easy ground beef enchiladas topped with red enchilada sauce and cheese!
Video
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 19 ounce can red enchilada sauce
- 4.5 ounce can chopped green chiles
- 10 soft taco shells 6 inches each
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- In a nonstick skillet cook ground beef over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through. Drain grease off beef.
- Stir ½ cup enchilada sauce and chopped green chiles into ground beef.
- Spread ½ cup enchiladas sauce evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread ¼ cup of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla then sprinkle with about 1 Tablespoon of cheese. Wrap tortillas tightly around the filling. Place seam side down in the baking dish.
- Top with remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
Can you make them ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance to bake later. If you do this, you may need to add some more enchilada sauce on top before they go in the oven. The tortillas will absorb it, so add a little more so they’re nice and saucy! How long do leftovers keep?
Store them in an airtight container and they will keep well for up three to four days in the fridge. What else can you add to enchiladas?
You can add black beans, pinto beans, or other beans that you like. Add chopped cilantro to the filling or diced veggies like onions and bell peppers. Just keep in mind, the more you add the more enchiladas you’ll get!
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance to bake later. If you do this, you may need to add some more enchilada sauce on top before they go in the oven. The tortillas will absorb it, so add a little more so they’re nice and saucy! How long do leftovers keep?
Store them in an airtight container and they will keep well for up three to four days in the fridge. What else can you add to enchiladas?
You can add black beans, pinto beans, or other beans that you like. Add chopped cilantro to the filling or diced veggies like onions and bell peppers. Just keep in mind, the more you add the more enchiladas you’ll get!
Nutrition Information
Calories: 642kcal (32%), Carbohydrates: 48g (16%), Protein: 36g (72%), Fat: 33g (51%), Saturated Fat: 16g (100%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 13g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 109mg (36%), Sodium: 1870mg (81%), Potassium: 451mg (13%), Fiber: 4g (17%), Sugar: 11g (12%), Vitamin A: 1204IU (24%), Vitamin C: 11mg (13%), Calcium: 425mg (43%), Iron: 6mg (33%)
Linda says
Can I make these and freeze and if I can should I just put it together and freeze or cook and then bake we really love this dish.
Sarah Hill says
While I haven’t tried it myself, it depends on your personal preference! Often I find that people prefer to freeze uncooked enchiladas, then bake them just before serving. This preserves the texture of the enchiladas, whereas freezing cooked enchiladas often results in soggy or rubbery tortillas.
Louree says
First time to try making enchiladas in years.This recipe made I so easy. I like that any meat can be used and even switch to green enchilada sauce. I did dice onions (about 2/3 of a large one) and added them in with the meat. For a topping I used sour cream, olives and lettuce. It was so good and filling. I have enough meat mixture for tomorrow night, already cooked. So it will be easy to put it together and make more. I will also make some rice as a side dish. I also can use Salsa for part of the topping.
Sarah Hill says
So glad you are enjoying this yummy recipe! Thank you so much for commenting and rating!
WENDY says
HOW WOULD I CONVERT THIS TO A CROCK POT? WANT TO MAKE BUT NO OVEN.
Courtney says
I have not made these in a crock pot. Sorry to hear you don’t have an oven!
Drew says
So easy to make and cooking goes quick
Courtney says
Great to hear! Thank you for rating this recipe! 🙂
Cindy says
Love the Pro Tips for these yummy enchiladas, they step up my cooking skills! Thank you!
Courtney says
Thank you!
Alyssa says
I can’t wait to try this beef enchilada recipe. It is so nice that you don’t need a ton of ingredients and I always love a meal that you can prepare the night before.
Courtney says
👍🏼 agreed!
Camden Rusincovitch says
I’m so happy to find a beef enchiladas recipe that includes chiles! They’re some of my favorites, I can’t wait to make these.
Brittany says
Beef Enchiladas with only 5 ingredients are so easy to whip up when I’m not sure what I want to cook for dinner. These items are easy enough to keep on hand all the time and my family never turns down Mexican food!
Cynthia Rusincovitch says
Never thought to heat the tortillas before filling beef enchiladas. (oops!) This was so much easier than how I have made them in the past. I love them but usually just ate them in Mexican restaurants because of the hassle. Thanks for the tip!
Kristen Yard says
My family LOVED these beef enchiladas! I used gluten free tortillas and it still came out perfectly! 10/10 recommend!
Allison LeBus says
Is it okay to use corn tortillas instead of flour