Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe | Tasty Mexican Dish

Ever wondered how to make authentic Mexican enchiladas that’ll wow your family? Our ground beef enchilada recipe is the answer! It’s easy to make and combines savory ground beef, melty cheese, and zesty spices for a flavor fiesta in every bite.

This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It has 374 calories per serving, so it’s a satisfying meal without the guilt. Plus, it makes 8 enchiladas, great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for lunch.

Our readers give this recipe a stellar 4.90 rating from 275 votes. It’s easy to see why – each enchilada is packed with 20g of protein and is full of vitamins and minerals. Plus, you can customize it to make it your own!

Key Takeaways

• Quick 30-minute prep and cook time
• High protein content: 20g per serving
• Customizable recipe for different tastes
• Highly rated by readers: 4.90 out of 5
• Perfect for family dinners or meal prep
• Balanced nutritional profile with essential vitamins and minerals

Introduction to Authentic Mexican Enchiladas

Authentic Mexican enchiladas are a favorite in Mexican cuisine. They are made with corn tortillas filled with tasty ingredients, then covered in a spicy chili pepper sauce. Ground beef enchiladas are a popular version, mixing seasoned beef with traditional ingredients.

Making authentic Mexican enchiladas is all about finding the right balance of flavors and textures. The soft tortillas and rich sauce work together to create a delicious meal.

Enchiladas are often served with Mexican rice and refried beans. This combo has been a hit since 2015, offering a mix of traditional tastes and modern ease.

Whether you’re an expert chef or just starting, you can learn to make authentic Mexican enchiladas. With the right ingredients and methods, you can whip up a meal that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table.

Essential Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Creating delicious ground beef enchiladas starts with picking the right ingredients. Let’s look at the key parts that make this dish a hit with families.

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

For top-notch ground beef enchiladas, go for 80% lean ground beef. This mix of meat and fat makes the enchiladas juicy and flavorful without too much grease.

Selecting Quality Tortillas

Corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas, but flour ones work well too. A pack of 10 Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas is ideal for this recipe. They keep their shape under the sauce and fillings.

Enchilada Sauce Options

You can make your own enchilada sauce or buy it. This recipe uses two 10 oz cans of Old El Paso™ Mild Red Enchilada Sauce. For a spicier taste, try their medium or hot sauces.

Cheese Varieties for Enchiladas

Shredded cheddar cheese is a top pick. You’ll need 1 1/2 cups (6 oz) for this recipe. It melts perfectly, giving that cheesy pull everyone loves.

The quality of your ingredients greatly affects the final dish. Pick wisely for the best ground beef enchiladas!

Preparing the Flavorful Beef Filling

Creating a delicious beef enchilada filling is key to this mouthwatering Mexican dish. Start by browning 2 pounds of ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As the meat cooks, add 1 cup of finely diced onion and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic for extra flavor.

Once the beef is cooked through, it’s time to add the ground beef seasoning for enchiladas. Mix in 4 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning, ensuring even distribution. For a zesty kick, squeeze in 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice.

To enhance the texture and taste of your beef enchilada filling, incorporate 1 cup of corn and 1 cup of sliced black olives. For a burst of freshness, stir in ¼ cup of finely chopped cilantro. Finally, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm mixture.

This hearty beef enchilada filling serves 8 people and takes about 32 minutes to prepare. Each serving packs a flavorful punch with 35.7g of protein and 44.0g of total fat, making it a satisfying meal option.

Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Making your own enchilada sauce is easy and adds authentic flavor to your dish. This red enchilada sauce recipe takes just 15 minutes to simmer. It creates a rich, flavorful base for your enchiladas.

Spice Blend for Authentic Flavor

The key to a great enchilada sauce lies in its spices. Mix these enchilada sauce spices for the perfect blend:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Consistency

Start by heating olive oil in a pan. Add flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir in your spice blend and simmer for 15 minutes until it reaches a syrup-like consistency.

Adjusting Heat Levels to Taste

Customize the heat of your sauce by adding cayenne pepper. Start with 1/8 teaspoon and increase to your liking. For a milder sauce, skip the cayenne entirely.

This homemade enchilada sauce recipe yields enough for 8 tortillas, perfect for serving 4 people. It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought sauces. You can control the ingredients and flavors.

Assembling Your Ground Beef Enchiladas

Learning to assemble enchiladas is crucial for a tasty Mexican dish. Begin by warming your corn tortillas so they’re easy to bend. Corn tortillas are best because they’re strong and hold the sauce and filling well.

Next, dip each tortilla in warm enchilada sauce before filling it. This makes sure the flavor spreads out evenly and keeps the tortillas moist during baking. Put 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoned ground beef in the middle of the tortilla. Don’t forget to add some cheese for extra flavor.

Roll the enchiladas tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Put each rolled enchilada seam-side down in a baking dish. This keeps the filling inside and prevents it from leaking out while baking.

• Pour remaining sauce over the rolled enchiladas
• Top with a generous layer of shredded cheese
• Arrange enchiladas in a single layer for even cooking

A recipe can make 8 to 14 enchiladas, depending on how much meat you use in each. You can prepare your enchiladas up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate them. Or, freeze them for up to 6 months, making them perfect for quick weeknight meals.

“Assembling enchiladas is an art that combines tradition with personal flair. The key is in the roll – tight enough to hold the filling, yet gentle enough to keep the tortilla intact.”

Baking Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

Learning how to bake enchiladas is essential for a delicious Mexican dish. The right temperature and timing are key for that perfect melt and crispy edges.

Ideal Oven Temperature and Timing

Preheat your oven to 375°F for the best results. Put your 9×13″ baking dish in the oven for 20-25 minutes. This ensures even cooking and keeps enchiladas from getting soggy.

Achieving the Right Cheese Melt

For that amazing cheese pull, use 3 cups of Mexican cheese blend or cheddar. Sprinkle it over your enchiladas before baking. This cheesy topping adds 57g of protein per serving.

Preventing Soggy Enchiladas

Don’t let your enchiladas get soggy! Use lean ground beef to cut down on grease. Don’t overfill your tortillas for crispiness. Baking without a cover helps too. If edges get too dark, cover with foil.

Remember, baking enchiladas is part of making a great meal. Let your dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps flavors blend and prevents burnt tongues!

“The secret to perfect enchiladas lies in the balance of temperature, timing, and technique.”

With these tips, you’re ready to bake enchiladas like a pro. Try different cheeses and sauces to find your favorite mix.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Make your enchilada meal even better with tasty Mexican side dishes. The right side can take your meal from great to amazing. Let’s look at some delicious options to go with your enchiladas.

Beans and rice are top choices for enchiladas. Chef John’s Refried Beans are made with lard, onions, and Serrano peppers for a smooth, flavorful taste. Serve it with zesty green chile rice for a perfect mix.

For something lighter, a refreshing salad or slaw is great. A crunchy, tangy-sweet salad can balance the enchiladas’ richness. Add avocado, Cotija cheese, and fresh lime juice to a corn salad for more flavor. A cabbage slaw with mashed avocado and lemon juice tastes like guacamole.

Vegetable Options

Veggie sides bring nutrition and color to your meal. A vegetable sauté with minced jalapeños and paprika is full of flavor. For a cooling touch, try Chef John’s Gazpacho. It’s a sweet, acidic tomato soup that goes well with cheesy enchiladas.

Don’t forget about chips, salsa, and guacamole. Serve them as starters or on top of your enchiladas for extra crunch and taste. For a cozy feel, try spicy cornbread to dip in the enchilada sauce.

Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Want to make tasty ground beef enchiladas? Follow our easy step-by-step guide. This recipe makes 8 servings and takes about an hour to prepare and cook.

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook 1 pound of ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic in a large skillet until it’s browned. Drain the excess fat. Then, add your favorite taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin for flavor.

Next, make the enchilada sauce. You can use store-bought or make it with tomato sauce, chili powder, and spices. Warm the sauce in a pan. Dip each tortilla in the warm sauce before filling.

Fill each tortilla with the seasoned beef and some shredded cheese. Roll them up tightly and put them seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the rest of the sauce over the enchiladas and add more cheese on top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices.

This ground beef enchilada recipe is great for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, bake it as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Customizing Your Enchiladas: Variations and Add-ins

Enchiladas can be customized in many ways. You can use vegetable fillings or protein alternatives to make each meal unique. Let’s look at some tasty ways to make your enchiladas your own.

Vegetable Additions for Extra Nutrition

Add more nutrition to your enchiladas with colorful veggies. Try using diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms in your filling. For a hearty and nutritious meal, add spinach or corn. These veggies not only taste great but also give you important vitamins and minerals.

Bean Options for Texture and Protein

Beans are great for adding protein and fiber to enchiladas. Try black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. For a creamier texture, mash the beans before mixing them into your filling. This makes your enchiladas a fulfilling vegetarian choice.

Spice Adjustments for Personal Preference

Adjust the heat in your enchiladas to what you like. Use various chili powders or add fresh jalapenos for more spice. For less heat, use fewer spices or choose a sweeter enchilada sauce. The secret to great enchiladas is finding flavors you enjoy.

Enchiladas are all about being versatile. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your ideal dish. Whether you want a healthier option or something new, these ideas will help you make enchiladas that are uniquely yours.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Planning meals in advance? Our ground beef enchiladas are perfect for make-ahead dinners. You can prep these tasty Mexican treats in the morning and bake them at night. This saves you precious time during busy weekdays.

For short-term storage, assemble your enchiladas and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F for the usual cooking time.

Freezing enchiladas is a great option for long-term meal planning. Here’s how:

1. Assemble enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish
2. Cover tightly with foil
3. Freeze for up to 3 months
4. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking
5. Bake thawed enchiladas as usual

For frozen enchiladas, bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This method ensures your make-ahead enchiladas taste just as delicious as freshly made ones.

Remember, leftover enchiladas should be eaten within 4-5 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Understanding enchilada nutrition is key to enjoying this Mexican favorite while keeping a balanced diet. A typical serving of two beef enchiladas has about 593 calories. It also offers a good 40g of protein, making it a filling meal.

For those looking for healthier enchilada choices, here are some nutritional facts per serving:

To make a lighter version, choose lean ground beef or turkey. Add more veggies to your filling for extra fiber. For a lower-calorie topping, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

This recipe doesn’t have gluten and can be made for grain-free or low-carb diets. You can add beans for more protein or bell peppers for extra nutrients. Just remember, eating in moderation is key to enjoying this tasty dish while keeping a balanced diet.

Pairing Beverages with Your Enchiladas

Choosing the right drinks with enchiladas can make your meal better. Mexican drinks offer many options to match the rich flavors of this dish.

Traditional Mexican Drinks

Authentic Mexican drinks are great with enchiladas. Horchata, a creamy rice drink, balances spicy flavors. Agua fresca, made with fresh fruit, is refreshing. These drinks add to the Mexican dining experience.

Wine and Beer Recommendations

For wine lovers, there are several good options with enchiladas. White wines like Riesling or Viognier have bright acidity and fruity flavors. Red wine fans might like a Zinfandel or Malbec, which go well with the savory beef.

Beer is a top choice for enchiladas. Mexican lagers like Modelo Especial or Corona Extra are favorites. These beers clean the palate between bites, making the meal taste better.

Non-Alcoholic Pairing Options

If you don’t want alcohol, try iced tea with lime or sparkling limeade. These drinks have a zesty kick that goes well with the dish. Fruit-infused water is also a light, refreshing choice that won’t overpower the meal.

Whether you like traditional Mexican drinks, wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options, there’s a perfect match for your enchiladas. Try different drinks to find your favorite and make your Mexican meal better.

Troubleshooting Common Enchilada Issues

Mastering enchilada cooking tips can take your Mexican dishes to the next level. Let’s tackle common issues that home cooks face.

Soggy enchiladas are a frequent problem. To avoid this, don’t over-sauce them. Use about 1 cup of sauce at the bottom and 2-3 cups on top. Corn tortillas work best because they keep their shape when rolled. Fry them for 10 seconds on each side before rolling to make them stronger.

Torn tortillas can mess up your dish. The solution? Don’t overfill them. Use only 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla. This stops them from tearing and leaking. If your enchiladas are too dry, add more sauce before baking, but be careful not to overdo it.

Uneven cheese melting is another issue. Cover the dish with foil for the last few minutes of baking. This keeps the heat in, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly. For an extra boost of flavor, try this trick with canned sauce:

Combine these ingredients for a tastier enchilada. With these tips, you’ll be fixing enchilada problems like a pro in no time!

Cultural Significance of Enchiladas in Mexican Cuisine

Enchiladas are a big part of Mexican food culture. They have a long history, going back to the Aztec and Mayan times. The Mayans first made enchiladas by wrapping fish in corn tortillas.

The word “enchilada” comes from the Spanish word ‘enchilar,’ which means ‘to add chili pepper to’. This shows how important chili peppers are in Mexican food. After Mexico became independent from Spain in 1821, enchiladas became a key part of the country’s food identity.

Today, enchiladas come in many styles, each with its own special ingredients. They have become popular in the U.S. since the early 1900s. People love them for their flexibility and the many ways they can be made.

Enchiladas have made their way around the world, from Paris to Austin. They show how food can bring people together. Like Latin American empanadas, enchiladas mix indigenous and Spanish flavors in a unique way.

Whether you like the cheesy Tex-Mex kind or the traditional enchiladas suizas from Mexico City, they’re always a hit. Enchiladas have traveled from ancient times to today, proving that food can bridge cultures and create shared memories.