These delicious ground beef enchiladas are a quick and tasty meal you can have ready in just 30 minutes! Packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and soft tortillas, they’re a perfect combination of hearty and comforting flavors that everyone will love. The simple ingredients come together fast, making this dish a go-to option for busy weeknights.
I love making these enchiladas when I need something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Cooking the beef with a blend of spices gives it a nice kick, and wrapping it all up in tortillas before baking makes the cheese gooey and melty—just the way I like it. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding whatever toppings or sides you prefer. I often sprinkle a bit of fresh cilantro or squeeze some lime on top for an extra touch.
One of my favorite ways to serve these is with a simple side salad or some rice and beans. It turns a fast meal into a filling dinner that feels special without any fuss. If you’re looking for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t take forever to make, these beef enchiladas are definitely a winner in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein and flavor base. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you want more richness, use beef with a bit higher fat content.
Black Beans: They add texture and extra heartiness. If you prefer, substitute with pinto beans or skip them for a simpler dish.
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought sauces save time and work well here, but homemade adds a fresh, deep flavor. You can also try green salsa (salsa verde) for a different twist.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and flexible, perfect for rolling. Corn tortillas work too but warm them well to avoid cracking.
Cheese: Cheddar melts nicely, but Mexican cheese blends (like Monterey Jack or queso quesadilla) add creaminess and mild flavor. Use shredded cheese for quicker melting.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in the Beef Filling?
The key is to properly cook and season the ground beef with good aromatics and spices. Here’s how:
- Sauté onions first until they’re soft to build a sweet, savory base.
- Add garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Brown the beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces for even seasoning.
- Add taco seasoning with a splash of enchilada sauce to coat the meat, enhancing flavor and moisture.
- Mix in black beans carefully; heat through without over-stirring to keep texture.
Season to taste with salt and pepper, and don’t rush this step – well-seasoned beef makes the whole dish shine.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions evenly.
- Baking dish (9×13 inch works well) – roomy enough to fit all the rolled enchiladas and bake them evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – lets you break up the ground beef and stir ingredients without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – handy for adding precise amounts of seasoning and sauce.
- Microwave-safe plate or skillet – to warm tortillas so they roll easily without tearing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter protein choice that still absorbs spices well.
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers or corn with the beef for added sweetness and crunch.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick melted into the filling.
- Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the seasoning for a deeper, smoky flavor experience.
Delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
For Assembly:
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8-10 flour tortillas (6-8 inch size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
For Topping:
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Other:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, giving you a total ready time of 30 minutes. It’s perfect when you want a quick and comforting meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and no longer pink, around 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef, add ½ cup enchilada sauce, and mix well to coat the meat. Gently stir in black beans and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Assemble the Enchiladas
Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce (about ¼ to ⅓ cup) onto the bottom of a baking dish. Warm tortillas briefly in the microwave or on a dry skillet to make them easier to roll. Spoon about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, top with a handful of shredded cheese, then roll tightly. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish, lining them up side by side.
3. Bake and Serve
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese generously on top. Bake uncovered in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro before serving.
Enjoy these cheesy, flavorful enchiladas with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?
Yes! Corn tortillas work well, but warm them briefly before filling to prevent cracking when rolling. You might also want to lightly fry them for extra softness.
Can I Make These Enchiladas Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and cover the baking dish, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them a few extra minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftover Enchiladas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! You can add sautéed peppers, corn, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if preferred. Just adjust seasoning as needed.
