Easy Enchiladas Recipe: A Quick One-Dish Meal for the Whole Family
Enchiladas are one of those comfort food recipes that bring everyone together. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal ahead of time, this easy-to-make enchilada recipe is perfect for families. With flavorful ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melty cheese, these enchiladas are sure to become a regular favorite. Serve with a fresh tossed salad and enjoy a complete, satisfying meal!
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb |
| Tomato paste | 1 can (6 oz) |
| Hot water | 1 3/4 cups |
| Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) | 2-3 cups |
| 10-inch flour tortillas | 6 |
| Fresh lettuce (for garnish) | 1 head |
| Sour cream (optional, for garnish) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 645.2 |
| Fat Content | 25.9 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 11.1 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 73.2 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1383.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 68.5 g |
| Fiber Content | 4.8 g |
| Sugar Content | 5.7 g |
| Protein Content | 33.4 g |
Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the tomato paste, hot water, and any seasonings or sauce mix you prefer (this can be a store-bought enchilada sauce mix or homemade). Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. Set the sauce aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat, then stir in half of the prepared sauce mix and half of the shredded cheese. This will infuse the meat with flavor and melt the cheese into the beef mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon the beef and cheese mixture evenly into each tortilla, making sure to distribute the filling well across each one. Roll up the tortillas, making sure to tuck the ends in so the filling stays inside.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the dish, arranging them neatly in a single layer. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the tortillas, ensuring each one is coated. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the enchiladas are done, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with fresh lettuce, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead: These enchiladas can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven for a quick and easy dinner.
- Customizations: Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture or the tomato sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans, corn, or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian version of these enchiladas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy enchilada recipe is a great one-dish meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. It combines the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy richness of cheese and the tangy goodness of homemade tomato sauce. Plus, it’s simple enough for even beginner cooks to master. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or preparing it in advance for a family dinner, these enchiladas will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Reviews: 24
Average Rating: 5 stars
Perfectly portioned, rich, and delicious—this recipe has earned rave reviews from families everywhere. Give it a try and discover why it’s a true family favorite!
