Beef Enchiladas
Hearty corn tortillas rolled around seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, smothered in a rich, homemade red enchilada sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, this Tex-Mex classic delivers bold, smoky flavor in every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Preheat oven and prep the tortillas.
1.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).2.Wrap the 8 corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds until pliable. Set aside. - saute · ~12 min
Cook the beef filling.
1.Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.2.Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.3.Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.4.Add ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, 5-7 minutes.5.Stir in 1 teaspoon chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and half the salt. Cook 1 minute. Remove from heat.TIPDrain excess fat from the beef after browning for a leaner filling. - boil · ~12 min
Make the enchilada sauce.
1.Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.2.Add remaining chili powder and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to bloom the spices.3.Pour in the tomato puree, water, and remaining salt. Bring to a simmer.4.Cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat.TIPBlooming the chili powder in hot oil deepens the color and flavor of the sauce. - assemble · ~8 min
Assemble the enchiladas.
1.Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom of the baking dish.2.Lay a tortilla flat, spoon a line of beef filling down the center, and sprinkle with a pinch of shredded cheddar cheese.3.Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the dish.4.Repeat with all 8 tortillas, arranging them snugly side by side.5.Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top of the rolled enchiladas.6.Scatter the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese over everything.TIPPlacing the enchiladas seam-side down keeps them from unrolling during baking. - bake · ~20 min
Bake until hot and bubbly.
1.Place the dish in the preheated oven.2.Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.TIPFor a golden, slightly crisped cheese top, broil on high for the last 2 minutes — watch closely to prevent burning. - rest · ~5 min
Let the dish rest before serving.
Remove from oven and let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes them easier to plate.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Warm tortillas in a damp paper towel to prevent cracking when rolling.
- 2Drain excess fat from the ground beef after browning for a cleaner, less greasy filling.
- 3Bloom the chili powder in hot oil for 30 seconds to deepen the sauce's color and smoky flavor.
- 4Place enchiladas seam-side down so they hold together during baking.
- 5For a bubbly, golden cheese top, broil on high for the last 2 minutes and watch closely.
- 6Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking so the sauce sets and enchiladas are easier to serve.
Adapt it for your goals.
Chicken enchiladas
Swap ground beef for 500g of shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great) for a lighter, tender filling that still absorbs the spiced sauce beautifully.
vegetarian black beanVegetarian black bean
Replace beef with 1 can of drained black beans and 1 cup of corn kernels for a hearty, fiber-rich vegetarian version with a sweet-savory crunch.
low oilLow-oil
Reduce oil to 1 tablespoon total: sauté onions in a splash of water or broth, and skip blooming the chili powder by whisking it directly into the tomato puree over low heat.
extra spicyExtra spicy
Add 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the beef filling for a smoky, spicy kick that complements the chili powder and cumin.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Protein
Ground beef provides high-quality protein to support muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
Rich in Lycopene
Tomato puree is a concentrated source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
Contains Dietary Fiber
Corn tortillas offer modest fiber to support digestion, especially when paired with beans or vegetables.
Calcium from Cheese
Cheddar cheese contributes calcium for bone health, though enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced meal.
Frequently asked questions
Corn tortillas need to be warm and pliable; microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds just before filling.
