Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas

Name: Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 8 flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; ½ cup sour cream (for serving)

Posted on March 19, 2025

Imagine a plate of sizzling Tex-Mex beef enchiladas fresh out of the oven, oozing with cheese and drizzled with vibrant salsa. The aroma dances through the air as you prepare to indulge in this flavorful fiesta.

Growing up, my family’s Friday night tradition involved taco nights that often turned into an epic showdown of who could pile on the most toppings. But nothing made my heart sing quite like when we switched gears to these unforgettable Tex-Mex beef enchiladas. I can still picture my mom’s laughter as she served them up, claiming they were “just as easy as folding laundry”—a claim I never dared to test.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These scrumptious Tex-Mex beef enchiladas are incredibly easy to whip up any night of the week
With layers of rich flavors and gooey cheese, they are visually appealing and sure to impress your guests
Plus, you can customize them based on your favorite ingredients or what’s left in your fridge

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.

I once made these for a potluck, and they vanished faster than I could say “enchilada.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy filling without all the extra grease.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best here; they’re soft and hold together beautifully when rolled.
Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a rich flavor and melty texture.
Enchilada Sauce: Homemade or store-bought works; just ensure it’s bursting with flavor.
Onion: Fresh onions add sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices give that authentic Tex-Mex kick you crave.
Sour Cream: A dollop on top balances the bold flavors perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until they become soft and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.

Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to your skillet with onions. Cook until no longer pink while breaking it up into crumbles, which should take around 7-10 minutes.

Add Seasonings and Sauce: Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder along with half of your enchilada sauce; stir well until everything is evenly coated.

Assemble Your Enchiladas: Take one tortilla at a time; spoon some beef mixture down the center before rolling it tightly. Place seam-side down in your greased baking dish.

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and cover with shredded cheese. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until everything is heated through and cheese is bubbly.

Enjoying these freshly baked Tex-Mex beef enchiladas will surely elevate any meal. They are perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings where everyone will want seconds (or thirds).

You Must Know

Tex-Mex beef enchiladas are a flavor explosion
The balance of spices and cheese creates a dish that’s comforting and satisfying
Perfect for weeknight dinners, they can be made ahead and are always a crowd-pleaser
Enjoy the aroma of sizzling beef and melting cheese wafting through your kitchen

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef with onions and spices. While it simmers, prepare your tortillas and cheese for assembly. This sequence ensures everything comes together seamlessly for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add beans for extra protein. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick. This personal touch makes each batch uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly rolled enchiladas, warm tortillas briefly in the microwave
This prevents tearing and makes them easier to handle
Don’t skip adding enough sauce; it keeps your enchiladas moist and flavorful throughout cooking
Allow them to rest before serving for better slicing

Sometimes I wonder if my friends come over just for these Tex-Mex beef enchiladas. One time, I made a big batch, and they disappeared before I could even sit down.

FAQ

How do I make Tex-Mex beef enchiladas spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or use hot salsa in the filling for extra heat.

Can I freeze Tex-Mex beef enchiladas?

Yes, wrap individually and store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

What toppings go well with Tex-Mex beef enchiladas?

Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or sliced olives for added flavor.