Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I flipped open my fridge, a half-empty jar of chunky salsa caught my eye, sparking a flash of inspiration. With just five simple ingredients, these 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas promise to transform your weeknight dinner routine into a quick and homely affair. This dish not only packs a delightful punch of flavor but also celebrates the beauty of home-cooked meals—perfect for families or anyone eager to break free from the fast-food trap. Imagine crispy, cheesy enchiladas bubbling in the oven, their warm aroma filling the kitchen as you gather your loved ones around the table. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s as adaptable as it is delicious—are you ready to get rolling? Why Are These Enchiladas So Special? Simplicity at Its Best: With only five ingredients, creating these beef enchiladas is a breeze, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Endless Adaptability: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken or even black beans to suit any dietary preferences. Family-Friendly Delight: These enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table, transforming picky eaters into satisfied diners. Flavor-Packed Comfort: Bursting with savory beef and zesty salsa, each bite is a warm hug of flavor—perfect for cozy dinners. Quick to Assemble: In just 15 minutes, you can prep this scrumptious meal, allowing you more time to unwind with your family. Pair it with sides like Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete feast or explore more delicious ideas with Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for a creative twist on your dinner lineup! Beef Enchiladas Ingredients • Discover the essentials for your beef enchiladas! For the Filling Ground Beef – The heart of your enchiladas; feel free to swap with ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter meal. Chunky Salsa – Adds a delightful kick and moisture; you can use homemade salsa or diced tomatoes as alternatives. For the Sauce Red Enchilada Sauce – Gives depth and keeps the enchiladas moist; try green enchilada sauce for a unique flavor twist. For the Wraps Tortillas (Flour or Corn) – Encase the filling; flour tortillas provide a soft bite, while corn tortillas offer a traditional touch. For the Topping Thick Cut Shredded Cheese – Adds creamy goodness and flavor; any favorite cheese blend works, but thicker cuts melt beautifully. With these simple ingredients, your beef enchiladas are just a meal away! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Enchiladas Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your beef enchiladas to golden perfection. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, such as a 9×13 inch baking dish and a skillet, to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the chunky salsa, ensuring it is evenly distributed with the beef. This step infuses your beef enchiladas with delicious flavor. Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish Once the beef mixture is ready, take your 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom. This layer helps to keep the enchiladas moist while baking. It also adds a rich flavor base, ensuring that every bite of your beef enchiladas is packed with savory goodness. Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas Take a tortilla and fill it generously with the beef and salsa mixture, then roll it tightly and place it seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly side by side. The tortillas should embrace the filling beautifully, setting the stage for the final bake. Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese Pour the remaining enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas, ensuring each one is covered. To finish, sprinkle a thick layer of shredded cheese on top. As the cheese melts during baking, it will create a deliciously gooey and golden crust. This step makes your beef enchiladas even more irresistible. Step 6: Bake the Enchiladas Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the enchiladas are bubbly and hot. After this, carefully remove the foil and allow them to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, transforming the cheese into a melty, delightful topping. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve your beef enchiladas hot, adorned with garnishes like sour cream or guacamole if desired. The visual of golden enchiladas with melted cheese will entice your family, making this hearty dish a cherished favorite at your dinner table. Storage Tips for Beef Enchiladas Fridge: Store leftover beef enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results. Freezer: Assemble beef enchiladas but do not bake; cover them tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Reheating: For reheating, place enchiladas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through for a delightful meal any night! Storage Tip: To keep enchiladas fresh and flavorful, ensure they are wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. Enjoy the comforting taste of home with your delicious beef enchiladas! Expert Tips for Beef Enchiladas Choose the Right Tortillas: Flour tortillas provide a soft and chewy texture, while corn tortillas lend a traditional touch and flavor. Experiment to find your favorite! Avoid Soggy Enchiladas: To prevent soggy tortillas, cover them with sauce just before baking. This keeps them crispy and delicious! Watch the Sodium: Be cautious with sodium levels, especially when using store-bought salsas and enchilada sauces; consider low-sodium options for a healthier dish. Prep Ahead: Assemble your beef enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze. This makes for a quick, easy weeknight meal! Customize Your Filling: Don’t hesitate to add ingredients like black beans or diced veggies to the beef filling for added flavor and nutrition; get creative with your enchiladas! Make Ahead Options These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner with less effort during busy weeknights! You can fully assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, for longer storage, you can freeze the assembled enchiladas for up to 3 months. To maintain their quality, be sure to cover them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chilled enchiladas directly for about 30-35 minutes, or if frozen, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This means you can enjoy delicious beef enchiladas with minimal fuss! Beef Enchiladas Variations & Substitutions Feel free to let your creativity shine while crafting these delicious enchiladas with these delightful modifications! Chicken Swap: Use shredded chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter alternative. It’s just as tasty and adds a different layer of flavor. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian dish. This option is packed with protein and will please everyone at the table. Low-Carb Twist: Opt for low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps to create a healthier version of enchiladas without sacrificing flavor. You’ll still enjoy every cheesy bite! Cheese Variance: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavor combinations. Each type brings its own wonderful taste profile—feel free to get adventurous! Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the beef mixture for a spicy kick. This not only amps up the heat but also enhances the overall flavor. Fresh Toppings: Enhance with fresh toppings like cilantro, diced avocado, or sliced green onions for added freshness. Bringing in that lovely crunch makes each bite a treat! Salsa Customization: Try different salsas, like pineapple or tomatillo salsa, to change the flavor profile completely. The sweetness of a pineapple salsa can elevate the dish beautifully. Fusion Inspiration: For a fun twist, consider serving your enchiladas alongside a side of Korean Ramen with Grilled Beef for a delightful cultural fusion of flavors. It’s a fun way to step out of your comfort zone while savoring tasty meals. With these simple variations and substitutions, you can enjoy the delightful experience of homemade beef enchiladas tailored to your taste buds! What to Serve with 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas There’s nothing quite like a cozy meal of enchiladas, and pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dining experience to new heights. Mexican Rice: This fluffy, seasoned rice complements the enchiladas beautifully, soaking up any extra sauce while adding a satisfying texture. A sprinkle of cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness. Refried Beans: Rich and creamy, refried beans offer a deliciously hearty side that balances the savory flavors of the enchiladas. They provide a delightful contrast in texture, making each bite an adventure. Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, guacamole brings a cooling contrast to the warm, cheesy enchiladas. Scoop it generously on top for a burst of flavor and a beautiful green accent. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and slightly smoky, grilled corn adds a delightful crunch to your plate. Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with chili powder for an extra kick! Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a refreshing tang that complements the spices of the enchiladas perfectly. It’s a classic pairing that never fails to impress. Fiesta Salad: A crisp salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado drizzled with lime vinaigrette brightens your meal. The fresh veggies add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the enchiladas. Homemade Salsa: Serve a side of zesty salsa for an extra kick and enhance the flavors of your dish! Chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro create a vibrant, fresh topping. Horchata: This sweet and refreshing cinnamon rice drink is perfect for cooling down after indulging in the savory enchiladas. Its creamy texture makes it a family favorite! Churros: For a sweet finish, serve warm churros with chocolate dip. Their crispy exterior and soft inside make them an irresistible dessert to end the meal on a delicious note. 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ingredients for my enchiladas? Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, look for a lean option with minimal visible fat. If using salsa, opt for one that has fresh ingredients and no added sugars. For the tortillas, check for freshness—aim for those without dark spots or tears. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you might substitute ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken. How do I store leftover beef enchiladas? Very! To store your leftover beef enchiladas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes for the best texture. Can I freeze my beef enchiladas? Absolutely! To freeze your beef enchiladas, assemble them but don’t bake. Wrap them tightly with aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe container—this keeps them fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime! What should I do if my tortillas are tearing while rolling? Very! If you’re having trouble with your tortillas tearing, try warming them up in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds before filling. This softens them, making them more pliable and easier to roll without cracking. Another tip is to use Flour tortillas instead of corn if you prefer a softer texture, as they tend to be more forgiving during assembly. Are there any dietary concerns I should consider? Absolutely! If you’re catering to family members with allergies, be mindful of gluten in regular tortillas. Look for gluten-free or low-carb options, such as almond flour tortillas! Also, if you’re worried about sodium levels, opt for low-sodium salsa and enchilada sauce to keep the meal heart-healthy while still delicious. Always check the ingredient labels, especially for processed foods! Delicious Beef Enchiladas: Quick, Easy, and Family-Friendly No ratings yet These beef enchiladas are a quick, easy, and family-friendly dish that transforms your weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 enchiladasCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 pound Ground Beef Can be substituted with ground turkey or shredded chicken.1 cup Chunky Salsa Homemade salsa or diced tomatoes can be used as alternatives.For the Sauce1 cup Red Enchilada Sauce Green enchilada sauce can be used for a unique twist.For the Wraps8 pieces Tortillas (Flour or Corn) Flour tortillas provide a soft bite; corn tortillas have a traditional touch.For the Topping2 cups Thick Cut Shredded Cheese Any favorite cheese blend works well. Equipment Large skillet9x13-inch baking dish Method Cooking StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and equipment.In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add ground beef. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in chunky salsa.Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.Fill tortillas with the beef and salsa mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle thick shredded cheese on top.Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.Let sit for a few minutes before serving with optional garnishes like sour cream or guacamole. Nutrition Serving: 1enchiladaCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesFor a delicious weeknight meal that your family will love, these beef enchiladas are a fantastic option. Experiment with fillings and toppings to find your perfect combination. 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