Name: Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 8 flour or corn tortillas (enchilada size); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Chopped cilantro; Sliced black olives; Sour cream; Diced green onions; Jalapeños

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If you’re looking for a quick and comforting dinner that the whole family will devour, look no further than Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals. With minimal prep, a short ingredient list, and maximum flavor, it’s no wonder this dish has become a household favorite across America.

These cheesy beef enchiladas are packed with savory seasoned ground beef, smothered in rich red enchilada sauce, and blanketed in layers of melty cheese. No complicated techniques here—just pure, delicious Tex-Mex comfort food. Plus, if you’re curious about the cultural origins of enchiladas, this authentic Mexican enchiladas guide provides wonderful context.

The recipe is not only simple but also freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal planning. If you like to prep ahead, learning how to freeze casseroles properly can ensure your enchiladas stay fresh and flavorful when you’re ready to bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Full of cheesy, beefy flavor
Kid-friendly and perfect for picky eaters
Freezer-safe for batch cooking
Totally customizable with endless topping and filling options

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best ground beef enchiladas, you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups enchilada sauce (red, mild or spicy)
8 flour or corn tortillas (enchilada size)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Toppings:

Chopped cilantro
Sliced black olives
Diced green onions
Sour cream
Jalapeños

How to Make Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

This recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a no-fuss dinner. Here’s how to pull it off:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the beef and onions together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and mix well.
Warm your tortillas so they’re easier to roll. You can microwave them in a damp towel or lightly pan-fry them.
Assemble the enchiladas:
- Spoon beef mixture down the center of each tortilla.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Top with sauce and cheese:
- Pour enchilada sauce over all the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Enchiladas

Warm tortillas prevent cracking when rolling.
Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
Drain excess fat from ground beef to avoid soggy enchiladas.
Don’t drown the tortillas in sauce—just enough to coat is perfect.
If you like a crispy top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes.

Variations to Try

There are many ways to make this dish your own:

Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a spicy enchilada sauce.
Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or shredded chicken for a leaner version.
Add veggies: Sneak in bell peppers, corn, or spinach.
Try different cheeses: Pepper jack, queso fresco, or a Mexican blend.
Make it breakfast-style: Add scrambled eggs and chorizo to the filling.

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Freezing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make-ahead: Assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freeze: Prepare enchiladas fully but don’t bake. Cover with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
To bake from frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge or bake from frozen at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, covered.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Enchiladas

Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are rich and satisfying, so simple sides work best. Try these:

Mexican rice
Black beans or refried beans
Corn salad or elote (Mexican street corn)
Chips and guacamole
Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Enchilada)

Calories: ~370
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sodium: 950mg
Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion size.

FAQs About Ground Beef Enchiladas

Can you make enchiladas without enchilada sauce?
Yes! Use salsa, tomato sauce, or a homemade mix of broth, spices, and tomato paste.

What cheese is best for enchiladas?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are great choices. Use what melts well.

Can I use flour tortillas for enchiladas?
Absolutely! While corn tortillas are more traditional, flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll.

How do you keep enchiladas from getting soggy?
Don’t oversaturate with sauce and avoid overfilling the tortillas.

Can enchiladas be frozen before baking?
Yes. Assemble, cover, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen or thaw and bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are one of those rare dishes that check all the boxes: simple, comforting, family-approved, and customizable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to please.

So grab your skillet, prep those tortillas, and enjoy a cheesy, satisfying meal that might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to sprinkle on those toppings and share your creation with others—it’s comfort food at its finest.