
Nothing hits the spot like a bubbling pan of beef enchiladas blanketed with melted cheese and rich red sauce This recipe turns everyday ground beef and a few simple extras into a family dinner that disappears fast
I first made these enchiladas for a family movie night and they were such a hit the requests have never stopped The aroma filling the kitchen guarantees everyone will show up hungry
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Choose fresh beef with good marbling for maximum flavor and juiciness
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling go for fresh and firm onions
- Garlic: Fresh cloves give a stronger flavor than pre minced jars
- Taco seasoning: Use your favorite packet or make your own for full control of spice
- Tomato paste: Brings rich body to the filling look for deep red concentrate without additives
- Diced green chiles: These give a mild tangy heat check the can date for freshness
- Red enchilada sauce: The key to great enchiladas use a quality brand or homemade for best results
- Corn tortillas: Authentic texture and flavor heat them before rolling to prevent tearing
- Mexican cheese blend: Pre shredded is convenient but freshly shredded melts even better
- Toppings: Sour cream avocado pico de gallo cilantro lettuce green onions cotija cheese or hot sauce Put out a toppings bar so everyone can serve up their favorite combo
Step by Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium high heat cook the ground beef until well browned breaking up with a spoon as it cooks Remove the beef to a bowl and drain any excess fat
- Soften the Aromatics:
- Add a bit of oil to the skillet and sauté the diced onion over medium heat for about 4 minutes until translucent Add garlic and cook just 30 seconds until fragrant
- Combine and Simmer the Filling:
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet Add taco seasoning tomato paste diced green chiles and the required water as instructed on your seasoning packet Simmer gently until the mixture thickens and the water is absorbed Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Take a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and spread half a cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom to prevent sticking and flavor each bite
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Place a warmed corn tortilla on your work surface Add one third cup beef filling in a line down the center Top with a quarter cup of cheese Roll tightly and arrange seam side down in the baking dish Repeat with the rest of the tortillas
- Sauce and Cheese Blanket:
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the assembled tortillas Sprinkle with the rest of the cheese so every corner is covered
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and everything is bubbling and golden Serve piping hot
- Top and Serve:
- Dish out the enchiladas and load up with your favorite toppings Enjoy every saucy cheesy bite

There is something magic about letting everyone pick their own toppings I always pile on extra cilantro and pico de gallo at the table Once my youngest helped sprinkle cheese on top and proudly declared himself the cheese boss for all future dinners
Storage Tips
Leftover enchiladas store well in the fridge in a covered dish for up to three days For longer storage freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to three months To reheat just cover with foil and warm gently in the oven so the cheese stays melty Use the microwave for a super quick lunch fix
Ingredient Substitutions
Switch up the filling by adding black beans refried beans or leftover rice If you prefer a different meat ground turkey or even shredded chicken work just as well Flour tortillas can be used in place of corn if needed Try green enchilada sauce for a tangier kick or fold in chopped spinach for some sneaky greens

Serving Suggestions
Pair these enchiladas with Mexican rice cilantro lime rice or a simple side salad A side of chips and salsa guacamole or fresh grilled corn completes the meal For extra flair add a drizzle of crema or a sprinkle of cotija cheese before serving
Cultural Context
Enchiladas trace back centuries in Mexican cuisine Originally simple tortillas filled with fish or beans they evolved region by region into the saucy cheesy versions enjoyed today The beauty is in the adaptability every family and cook adds their own twist making each pan unique
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep corn tortillas from tearing?
To prevent corn tortillas from breaking, warm them in a dry pan or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them more flexible.
- → What toppings work well with this dish?
Popular toppings include sour cream, fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, diced avocado, shredded lettuce, cotija cheese, and sliced onions.
- → Can I add beans or rice to make it heartier?
Yes, black beans, refried beans, or rice can be added to the beef filling to bulk up the dish and enhance its texture.
- → Is it possible to use green sauce instead?
Absolutely. Swap red enchilada sauce for green if you prefer a different flavor profile or want to change things up.
- → What cheese is best for a melty topping?
A Mexican blend of cheeses melts beautifully, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites for extra flavor.