Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

If you’ve been hunting for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting, satisfying, and ridiculously easy to make, Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are about to win you over. Imagine tender tortillas wrapped around a zesty beef filling, smothered in a rich, tangy enchilada sauce, and baked under a blanket of gooey, golden cheese. The scent that wafts through your kitchen as they bubble away in the oven? Pure magic.

I’ve made this dish on busy weeknights when the clock is ticking, for casual Friday dinners with friends, and even as part of a holiday buffet. Each time, the reaction is the same: empty plates, happy sighs, and requests for seconds. And the best part? They’re as simple to make as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

There’s a reason Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are one of the most requested dinners in my kitchen.

  • Simple prep, big flavor – We’re talking about one skillet for the beef, one baking dish, and minimal chopping.
  • A perfect flavor balance – Savory ground beef with cumin and chili powder, tangy sauce, creamy melted cheese.
  • Versatility in every bite – Swap the protein, change up the cheese, go mild or bring the heat.
  • Crowd-pleasing magic – From picky kids to spice-loving adults, these enchiladas never disappoint.
  • Personal favorite memory – The first time I made them, I underestimated how much my friends could eat. I thought two enchiladas each was enough. Let’s just say I learned that making a double batch is never a bad idea.

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Enchiladas

To make the ultimate cheesy beef enchilada recipe, you’ll need:

  • Lean ground beef – Rich flavor without too much grease.
  • Flour tortillas – Soft and pliable, but you can use corn tortillas for gluten-free beef enchiladas.
  • Enchilada sauce – Store-bought or homemade, red or green.
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese – Or a blend for creamy and melty cheese heaven.
  • Onion – Diced for that sweet, savory base.
  • Garlic – Minced for aromatic punch.
  • Cumin & chili powder – Classic Mexican seasoning.
  • Sour cream – A cool topping to balance the heat.

Full measurements and step-by-step directions are in the printable recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

Step 1 – Preparation Phase

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. Get all your ingredients ready so you can move smoothly from stovetop to oven.

Step 2 – Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of lean ground beef with a diced onion for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned and the onion turns translucent.

Step 3 – Add the Seasonings

Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp cumin, and 1 tsp chili powder. Cook for one more minute to bloom the spices and fill your kitchen with that savory Mexican flavor.

Step 4 – Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into each tortilla, roll it up snugly, and place it seam-side down in your baking dish.

Step 5 – Layer the Sauce and Cheese

Pour 2 cups of enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure every inch gets coated. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheese.

Step 6 – Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7 – Serve and Enjoy

Top with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if you want an extra kick.

Additional Notes and Flavor Variations

  • For weeknight Mexican meals, make the filling ahead of time and refrigerate until dinner.
  • Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or lentils and black beans for vegetarian Mexican comfort food.
  • Make them kid-friendly Mexican food by using mild enchilada sauce and reducing chili powder.
  • For gatherings, turn this into a crowd-pleasing beef dish by doubling the recipe.
  • Want to avoid soggy tortillas? Lightly fry them in a bit of oil before filling.

Chef’s Helpful Tips for the Best Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

  • Don’t overcook the beef – you want it tender and juicy.
  • Use a generous hand with the cheese for that creamy, melty finish.
  • If making gluten-free beef enchiladas, use warmed corn tortillas to prevent tearing.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F to keep them from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble them earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate. Bake right before serving.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even seasoned lentils all work beautifully.

How do I keep enchiladas from getting soggy?

Lightly fry the tortillas before filling to create a barrier against the sauce.

Can I freeze them?

Yes. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen with an extra 10–15 minutes.

Serving and Side Dish Ideas

Enchiladas are best served with vibrant sides. Try a perfect side dish for enchiladas like Mexican Street Corn Salad for a pop of color and flavor. Pair them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a Mexican pasta salad with bold flavors like Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

If you’re in the mood for more Tex-Mex comfort, check out these other easy enchilada dinner ideas or vegetarian Mexican comfort food.

Print
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Cheesy beef enchiladas with red sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and diced tomatoes in a white baking dish.

Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas


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  • Author: Jake
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Tender tortillas wrapped around zesty ground beef, smothered in tangy enchilada sauce, and baked under gooey golden cheese – the perfect weeknight Mexican comfort food.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 8 flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. Brown beef and onion in a skillet for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook 1 minute.
  4. Fill tortillas with beef mixture, roll, and place seam-side down in baking dish.
  5. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve with sour cream and toppings of choice.

Notes

Make ahead by assembling earlier in the day, refrigerating, and baking before serving. For gluten-free, use warmed corn tortillas. Lightly fry tortillas before filling to prevent sogginess.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 enchiladas
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
Collage of cheesy ground beef enchiladas topped with sour cream, diced tomatoes, and cilantro in a white baking dish.
Two-photo collage of cheesy ground beef enchiladas topped with sour cream, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.

Final thoughts

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