5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas: A Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner. When life gets busy, a simple, delicious dinner is a lifesaver. These 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights when you need to get a meal on the table fast. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe delivers all the flavor of traditional enchiladas without the fuss. Packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and a rich enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite.

I’ve made these enchiladas countless times, and they’re always a hit. My family loves the cheesy, saucy filling, and I love how easy they are to prepare. They’ve become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

Essential Ingredients

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor.
• Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, it adds rich, savory flavor.
• Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable, they’re perfect for rolling.
• Shredded Cheese: Thick-cut Mexican cheese blend melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
• Chunky Salsa: Adds texture and a burst of flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.

Season the Beef:

Stir in 1 cup of chunky salsa and 1 cup of enchilada sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

Spread ½ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Fill each flour tortilla with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

Repeat until all the tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish.

Top with Sauce and Cheese:

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheese.

Bake:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

Let the enchiladas cool slightly, then garnish with chopped cilantro, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

I’ve always loved how versatile this recipe is. The combination of savory beef, tangy enchilada sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. My family often requests these enchiladas, and they’re a hit at casual gatherings.

Variations and Adaptations

Chicken Enchiladas:

Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken.

Vegetarian Option:

Use black beans or sautéed vegetables as the filling.

Cheese Enchiladas:

Skip the meat and double up on the cheese for a vegetarian version.

Spicy Twist:

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

What to Serve with Beef Enchiladas

Mexican Rice:

A classic side that pairs perfectly with enchiladas.

Refried Beans:

Creamy and comforting, they’re a great addition.

Guacamole and Chips:

For a fresh, crunchy side.

Corn Salad:

A light and refreshing option.

Tortilla Chips and Salsa:

Perfect for scooping up any extra sauce.

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Leftovers and Storage

Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Final Thoughts. These 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are a celebration of simple, delicious flavors. The savory beef, tangy sauce, and melted cheese come together in a way that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, they’re sure to impress.

I’ll never forget the first time I made these enchiladas. The smell of baking cheese and spices filled the kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love cooking. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create something truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas for a more traditional enchilada. They might be a bit more delicate to work with, so warm them well before rolling.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like onions, bell peppers, beans, or corn to the ground beef mixture.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?

Warm the tortillas before rolling them. This will make them more pliable and less likely to tear.