5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients? These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are the answer! With just five simple ingredients, you can create a savory and satisfying dish that will please the whole family. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, red enchilada sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas makes every bite packed with flavor. It’s easy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Ingredients

You only need five ingredients to make these enchiladas—perfect for anyone who wants a tasty meal without a lot of fuss.

2. Quick and Easy

From browning the beef to baking the enchiladas, this recipe takes under an hour to make, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.

3. Flavorful

The combination of chunky salsa, red enchilada sauce, and melted cheese creates a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s sure to hit the spot.

4. Family-Friendly

This simple and hearty dish is great for everyone, from picky eaters to those with adventurous tastes. The cheesy filling and soft tortillas make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

5. Customizable

You can easily add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños, and adjust the heat with mild or spicy salsa, depending on your preferences.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef
• Chunky salsa
• Red enchilada sauce
• 8-inch tortillas
• Borden Cheese Thick Cut Shredded Four Cheese Mexican (about 2 cups)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Try adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: For more heat, use a spicy salsa or add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version of these enchiladas.
• Cheese Options: Use any type of shredded cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses.
• Toppings: Top your enchiladas with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and return the meat to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the chunky salsa. Heat through, then remove from the heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Pour about half of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas according to the package directions to make them more pliable and easier to roll.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Add about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture to the center of each tortilla. Top with a heaping tablespoon of cheese. Tightly roll up each tortilla and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the enchiladas are heated through.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: Be sure not to overfill the tortillas with the beef mixture, or they may be difficult to roll and could spill open.
• Adjust the Heat: Use mild salsa if you prefer a less spicy dish, or opt for a spicy salsa if you want to add some heat to the enchiladas.
• Don’t Skip the Foil: Wrapping the baking dish in foil helps to keep the enchiladas moist and prevents the tortillas from drying out.
• Use Fresh Tortillas: For the best texture, use soft, fresh tortillas. You can also use flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference.

How to Serve

Serve your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas with the following sides:

• Mexican Rice – A side of fluffy, seasoned rice complements the flavors of the enchiladas perfectly.
• Refried Beans – A classic side dish that adds extra creaminess and richness to the meal.
• Guacamole and Sour Cream – Add a dollop of sour cream or some fresh guacamole to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Chopped Cilantro and Lime Wedges – Garnish your enchiladas with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, zesty finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

These enchiladas freeze well! To freeze, allow the enchiladas to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, cover the enchiladas with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

2. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade enchilada sauce, you can easily substitute it in this recipe.

3. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas will work well for this recipe, but you may need to warm them slightly to make them more pliable.

5. How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

Use a spicier salsa or add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a hotter kick.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any shredded cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, if you don’t have a Mexican cheese blend.

7. How can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with black beans or a mix of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version of this dish.

8. Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

9. How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy?

Make sure to warm the tortillas before assembling the enchiladas, and be sure not to overfill them.

10. How can I add more flavor to the beef mixture?

Feel free to add seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder to the beef for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, simple, and packed with flavor! With just five easy ingredients, you can have a cheesy, savory meal on the table in no time. Customize the dish to suit your taste, add a few toppings, and you’ve got a family-friendly dinner that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for later, these enchiladas will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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