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Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas

These ground beef enchiladas are a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights. By browning the beef properly, warming the tortillas, and using a well-seasoned sauce, you can avoid sogginess and create delicious, cheesy enchiladas that everyone will love.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 12 flour tortillas 6-inch size
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
  • Optional toppings: sour cream
  • Optional toppings: guacamole
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Spoon
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off excess fat.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in tomato sauce, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel) to make them more pliable. This prevents cracking when rolling.
  5. Assemble the Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
  7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
  8. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.

Notes

For best results, use a thicker enchilada sauce to prevent sogginess. Warming the tortillas before rolling is crucial for preventing cracks. You can also lightly fry the tortillas in oil for a more crispy texture. Leftover enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. For a spicier flavor, add more cayenne pepper or use a hotter variety of green chilies.