Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas – One-Pan Family Favorite!

Creamy Ground Beef Enchiladas for Family Dinners 🌶️🧀🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful meal that will satisfy the entire family, look no further than these beef enchiladas. Also known as ground beef enchiladas or cheesy enchiladas, this dish combines seasoned ground beef nestled in soft tortillas, topped with a rich, creamy sauce, and baked to perfection. Whether you’re a fan of classic Mexican flavors or craving a hearty casserole, these Mexican ground beef casserole inspired enchiladas are sure to become a dinner favorite.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Enchiladas

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Cheesy Enchiladas

Preparing the Ground Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary. Set aside.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spread a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, add some shredded cheese, then roll tightly to enclose the filling.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, mix the enchilada sauce with sour cream until well combined. Pour a thin layer of this creamy mixture at the bottom of the baking dish. Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in an even layer.

Baking to Perfection

Pour the remaining enchilada-sour cream sauce over the rolled tortillas. Top with the remaining shredded cheeses. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

4. Tips for Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or rewarm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For best results, reheat covered to keep the cheesy goodness moist.

5. Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Enchiladas

Pair these beef enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice, a crisp green salad, or tortilla chips with salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro and perhaps a dollop of extra sour cream for added richness. For an extra zest, serve them with slices of lime for squeezing over the top.

6. Variations and Substitutions

If you prefer, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based protein for a healthier or vegetarian version. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or queso fresco. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.

7. Why Choose This Chicken Enchiladas Recipe?

This recipe is beloved for its balance of creamy sauce and flavorful beef filling, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or potlucks. The ease of assembly and baking ensures a comforting meal that’s both quick and satisfying.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Perfect for preparing flavorful fillings ahead of time, making your cooking process effortless.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer: Ideal for mixing and preparing ingredients with ease.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Simplifies dicing onions and garlic, saving prep time.
• King Arthur Baking Ultimate Bread Baker’s Cookbook: Offers additional ideas for side dishes to serve alongside your enchiladas.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these beef enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance, cover them, and refrigerate. Bake them when ready, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Are these enchiladas gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if you use corn tortillas and ensure the enchilada sauce does not contain gluten. Check labels or make your own sauce for full control.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time from start to finish is approximately 45 minutes, including prep, assembly, and baking, making it an efficient weeknight dinner option.

What other fillings can I use?

Try adding black beans, corn, or sautéed peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

These creamy ground beef enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing, cheesy, and flavorful Mexican-inspired dinner that your family will love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a hearty casserole on the table in less than an hour. Experiment with variations and serve with your favorite sides for a complete Mexican feast. Happy cooking!

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