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These Mexican Beef Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food! Packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and smothered in rich tomato sauce, this dish is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you’re serving a quick weeknight meal or hosting a festive dinner party, these enchiladas are sure to delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love Mexican Beef Enchiladas

Authentic Flavor: These enchiladas taste just like the ones from your favorite Mexican restaurant, with a perfect balance of spices, cheese, and hearty beef. Each bite is rich, satisfying, and bursting with traditional flavors.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together in just one dish!
Customizable Options: Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to your tastes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a party, these enchiladas are always a hit. Everyone will enjoy digging into the cheesy, saucy goodness!
Complete Meal: This one-dish wonder doesn’t need sides, but pairs beautifully with guacamole or a simple salad if desired.

This meat enchiladas recipe tastes very authentic, and goes really well with guacamole! This recipes makes amazing enchiladas that taste exactly the the enchiladas from your favorite Mexican restaurant!

Ingredients for Mexican Beef Enchiladas

Corn Tortillas – The base of every great enchilada, these add authentic texture and flavor.
Ground Beef – Provides a hearty, protein-rich filling with bold seasoning.
Onion – Adds a sweet, savory depth to the beef mixture.
Garlic – Brings a punch of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Tomato Sauce – A rich and tangy base for the enchilada sauce.
Cilantro – Freshens up the filling with a bright, herbaceous note.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
Chili Powder – Adds warmth and a touch of spice to the filling.
Cumin – Gives the filling a smoky, earthy flavor.
Oil – Used to sauté the onion and ensure nothing sticks to the pan.
Salt and Pepper – Season to taste to enhance all the flavors.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Nobody can refuse these delicious tortilla roll-ups stuffed with the seasoned ground beef and topped with melted oozing cheese! This enchiladas recipe is very versatile – it can be easily made on a busy weeknight, but it’s can also be served to a crowd of guests at a Mexican-themed party. People love digging into these cheesy yummy enchiladas – they are so good!

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Mexican Beef Enchiladas

Non-stick Frying Pan – Perfect for sautéing onions and cooking the beef filling without sticking.
8×12 Baking Dish – Holds all the enchiladas and ensures even cooking in the oven.
Microwave – Quickly warms the tortillas, making them pliable for rolling.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures precise measurements for consistent results.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Ideal for stirring the filling and handling the ingredients easily.

These Mexican enchiladas are really easy to make – just put the meat filling inside the corn tortillas, roll the tortillas and put them in a casserole dish, top with tomato sauce and shredded cheese and bake. This is a one-dish meal, making your life so much easier! These enchiladas make a complete meal – no side dish necessary!

How to Make Mexican Beef Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This sets the stage for perfectly baked enchiladas.
Sauté the chopped onion in oil over medium-high heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef, chili powder, and cumin to the pan. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
Stir in minced garlic and half of the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Turn off the heat, then mix in chopped cilantro and some shredded cheese. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Spread a layer of the diluted tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Warm the tortillas in the microwave to make them easy to roll.
Fill each tortilla with a heaping tablespoon of the beef mixture, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the enchiladas, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top, then bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

You can use any kind of ground meat here – the recipe specifies ground beef, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these enchiladas with a side of Best Homemade Guacamole or avocado slices for a creamy, refreshing contrast.
Add a dollop of 2-Ingredient Sour Cream or plain Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Pair with a Fresh Tomatillo Salsa Verde or Homemade Fresh Salsa – Classic Pico de Gallo for a bright, tangy kick.
Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside Simple Mexican Rice or a Fresh Lettuce and Tomato Salad with Parmesan Cheese with a zesty lime dressing.

Tips for Success

Warm the Tortillas: Heating the tortillas in the microwave makes them soft and pliable, preventing cracks when rolling. You can also lightly toast them in a dry pan if preferred.
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro, high-quality ground meat, and a flavorful cheese for the best results. These small details make a big difference in the final taste.
Don’t Skip the Sauce Base: Spreading a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of the baking dish keeps the enchiladas moist and ensures they don’t stick to the dish.
Layer with Love: Be generous with the filling but avoid overstuffing, as it can make rolling difficult. Keep each enchilada snug in the dish for a uniform bake.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the filling if you prefer spicier enchiladas. Keep it mild for a family-friendly version.
Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on the enchiladas as they bake. The cheese should be melted and bubbly but not overly browned. Cover with foil if necessary.
Let Them Rest: Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Shredded rotisserie chicken also works wonderfully and saves time.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is classic, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or even a spicy pepper jack for added heat.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with cooked black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your corn tortillas are certified gluten-free, and double-check the label on your chili powder and tomato sauce.
Low-Carb Alternative: Use low-carb tortillas or zucchini slices in place of corn tortillas for a keto-friendly twist.
Add Spice: For a spicier version, incorporate diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce into the beef filling.
Make it Creamy: Add a layer of sour cream or cream cheese mixed into the filling for a richer flavor.
Switch the Sauce: Swap the tomato sauce for red enchilada sauce, green enchilada sauce, or a homemade salsa verde for a different flavor profile.
Top It Off: After baking, garnish with diced avocado, pickled red onions, or crumbled cotija cheese for added texture and flavor.
Family-Style Casserole: Instead of rolling the enchiladas, layer the tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese like a lasagna for a simplified approach.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing: These enchiladas freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating in the Oven: For best results, reheat in a preheated 350°F oven. Cover with foil to retain moisture and heat for 20–25 minutes or until warmed through.
Reheating in the Microwave: Heat individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, for 2–3 minutes, or until heated evenly.
Make Ahead Option: Assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with foil, and bake when ready to serve. You may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

What’s the best way to prevent tortillas from cracking?

Heating the tortillas before filling them is key. A quick 30-second warm-up in the microwave or a light toast in a dry skillet will make them pliable and easier to roll without breaking.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly. Choose smaller flour tortillas for easier rolling, and adjust the baking time as needed.

What should I serve with beef enchiladas?

While they’re a complete meal on their own, these enchiladas pair wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, Mexican rice, or a fresh green salad. For a festive spread, add some tortilla chips and queso dip!

Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?

Yes, these enchiladas freeze very well. For best results, wrap them tightly or store them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven for best results, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

To turn up the heat, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. You can also use a spicy cheese blend or drizzle hot sauce over the enchiladas before serving.

What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar?

Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. For a more traditional touch, try queso fresco or cotija cheese as a garnish.

Other Easy Beef Recipes

Easy Ground Beef Stir Fry – One Pan Dinner – A quick and flavorful stir fry made with tender ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Crispy Air Fryer Beef Ribs – Juicy beef ribs seasoned to perfection and cooked in the air fryer for a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Homemade Beef Teriyaki Recipe – A deliciously sweet and savory teriyaki beef dish, perfect for serving over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Pressure Cooker Beef and Vegetable Soup – A hearty and comforting soup filled with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, ready in no time.

Jamaican Beef Patties in the Air Fryer – Flaky pastry stuffed with spiced beef filling, cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer for an easy, authentic treat.

Instant Pot Tender Roast Beef Recipe – Succulent roast beef cooked in the Instant Pot until melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfect for family dinners.

Cheesy BBQ Beef Casserole with Mashed Potatoes – Layers of barbecue-flavored beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese baked into a comforting casserole.

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