Simple Beef Enchiladas
Creamy, flavorful beef enchiladas with melted cheese and a spicy chili sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gatherings with bold Tex-Mex flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain off the fat.
- Add the enchilada mix to the beef according to the package directions.
- In a small amount of oil, quickly fry the corn tortillas until just softened.
- Place the fried tortillas on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Shred the Cheddar cheese.
- Spread 1/3 of the chili in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Place a small amount of the beef mixture and cheese in the center of each tortilla.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- When the dish is full, pour the remaining chili over the top of the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the beef while browning. You can substitute ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option. If you're looking for a spicier kick, try adding jalapeños or using a spicier enchilada mix. For a unique twist, serve these enchiladas with a side of El Dorado Surprise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the enchiladas with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro for added flavor. A side of Mexican rice or refried beans complements the dish well, making it a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider pairing with a simple green salad or your favorite salsa. These enchiladas also pair beautifully with Beef Taco Filling for a Mexican Meal night.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, thawing in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Beef Enchiladas contains roughly 353 calories, with 20g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 353 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. If you prefer, you can also freeze them; just bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they're heated through.
What can I use instead of corn tortillas?
If you don’t have corn tortillas, flour tortillas can be a suitable substitute, though they may have a different texture and flavor. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option. Just be mindful to adjust the frying time as flour tortillas may require less time to soften.
How can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mixture of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, and add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. This will keep the dish hearty and satisfying while catering to vegetarian diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).