Ground Beef Enchiladas

Name: Ground Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 1 jalapeño (seeds and membrane removed, finely diced); 2 pounds ground beef (I use 90/10); 4½ ounces green chiles (canned); 3¼ cups enchilada sauce (divided); 6 large flour tortillas (8-9 inches); 8 ounces cheddar cheese (shredded); 8 ounces Pepper Jack cheese (shredded)

Homemade enchilada sauce adds bold flavor to these ground beef enchiladas. The whole family will love this easy, comforting dish.

Serve with Miracle Whip coleslaw, or a house salad for a satisfying meal.

white casserole dish of baked enchiladas garnished with cilantro.

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This post was originally published in March 2019 and has been completely updated with process steps, tips, FAQs, and new photos.

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Recipe Highlights
Ingredient Notes
How to Make Beef Enchiladas
Recipe FAQs
More Enchilada-Inspired Recipes
📖 Recipe Card
💬 Comments

Recipe Highlights

Easy to prepare. Just a handful of ingredients are required.
Homemade enchilada sauce adds deep, bold flavor.
Full of comfort food vibes.
For a Mexican-inspired spread, pair these with taco cream cheese dip and cilantro lime rice. Serve ice cream sundae nachos for a sweet finish.

We love Tex-Mex food in our house, and these ground beef enchiladas are a family favorite. The incredible aroma is sure to have your family running to the dinner table!

Ingredient Notes

Ground beef: I use a 90/10 blend. 85/15 is okay, but I think an 80/20 mix is too fatty for this recipe. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used.
Jalapeños: One jalapeño brings a touch of heat without being overpowering. If you aren't a fan of spice, try a poblano. They are mild and provide great flavor.
Enchilada sauce: I love using homemade enchilada sauce, which comes together with pantry staples and elevates the flavors in this dish. You will need a double batch of this homemade sauce. In a pinch, canned enchilada sauce can be a good substitute.
Cheddar and Pepper Jack cheeses are my go-to. Monterey Jack is another excellent option. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
Tortillas: Both flour and corn tortillas can also be used.

See the recipe card for complete instructions and ingredient amounts.

How to Make Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Cook the onions and jalapeños in olive oil until soft and translucent. Transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook completely, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Drain the excess fat.

Ground beef combined with onions, jalapenos, and green chiles.

Step 3: Add the onions and jalapeños back to the skillet along with the green chiles.

Ground beef mixture with enchilada sauce added.

Step 4: Stir in the enchilada sauce. Simmer while charring the tortillas.

Filling tortillas with cheese and beef mixture.

Step 5: Fill each tortilla with a couple of spoonfuls of the beef mixture and some shredded cheese. Roll up.

Step 6: Add a thin layer of enchilada sauce to the bottom of the casserole dish and place the tortillas seam-side down in the dish.

Casserole dish of enchiladas covered with sauce and cheese before baking.

Step 7: Top the enchiladas with sauce and the rest of the cheese.

Step 8: Bake at 375℉ for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Recipe FAQs

How do I keep beef enchiladas from turning soggy?

Lightly charring the tortillas before rolling gives them some texture and helps them from becoming soggy. Additionally, if preparing the enchiladas ahead of time, wait to cover them with sauce until right before baking.

Are enchiladas better with flour or corn tortillas?

While corn tortillas are more traditional, it is a matter of preference. Corn tortillas lend a distinct corn flavor. Feel free to use whatever you love.

Can you make enchiladas without frying the tortillas?

Absolutely! Before rolling the enchiladas, char the tortillas over an open flame or on a griddle. This adds texture, enhances their flavor, and helps prevent the tortillas from turning soggy once assembled.

How do I store and reheat beef enchiladas?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Heat individual portions in the microwave. To reheat the casserole, cover and bake at 350℉ until warm throughout.