5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious and easy dinner that requires minimal ingredients but packs full flavor, look no further than these 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas. With just five simple ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends and family. These enchiladas combine lean ground beef, salsa, enchilada sauce, tortillas, and plenty of cheese, making them a hit with everyone at the table.

This recipe is not only quick but also incredibly flexible, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s a great base recipe for any level of home cook, and the result is always a cheesy, flavorful dish that’s sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe is super simple to prepare and cooks in just under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight meals or a quick dinner fix.

2. Minimal Ingredients

With only five ingredients, you can whip up this dish without the need for complicated prep or hard-to-find items.

3. Flavorful and Satisfying

The combination of seasoned beef, tangy salsa, rich enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese creates a bold and comforting meal.

4. Kid-Friendly

With a cheesy and familiar flavor profile, this dish is perfect for feeding picky eaters or little ones who enjoy classic flavors.

5. Customizable

You can easily swap out ingredients like ground beef for chicken, add extra veggies, or use a different type of cheese depending on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

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

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option – Replace the ground beef with black beans, refried beans, or sautéed veggies for a meatless version.
2. Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or use spicy salsa to give the enchiladas an extra zing.
3. Cheese Varieties – Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
4. Add More Fillings – You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
5. Lower-Carb – Swap out the regular tortillas for low-carb or gluten-free tortillas to make this dish more suitable for special diets.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the chunky salsa and cook until the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

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

Take each tortilla and add about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture down the center. Top each tortilla with about 1 heaping tablespoon of shredded cheese. Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake the Enchiladas

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the enchiladas are heated through.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overstuff: Be sure not to overstuff the tortillas, as it may cause them to split when baking.
• Prevent Sticking: Spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the enchiladas don’t stick to the bottom.
• Use Fresh Tortillas: If possible, use fresh tortillas for a better texture and flavor. Store-bought tortillas work just fine, though.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve

Serve these 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

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 heated through.

Freezing

These enchiladas freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If microwaving, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for a different flavor.

2. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?

Yes, store-bought enchilada sauce works great for this recipe. You can also use homemade sauce if you prefer.

3. Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with black beans, refried beans, or sautéed vegetables for a meatless version.

4. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

Be sure to warm the tortillas before filling them, and don’t overload them with sauce. Using a good amount of cheese will help the tortillas hold their shape during baking.

5. Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Just be sure to let them cool completely before wrapping and freezing.

6. Can I add more cheese to the filling?

Yes, feel free to add extra cheese inside the tortillas with the meat mixture for a cheesier version.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños, use a spicier salsa, or add chili powder to increase the heat.

8. How do I make these enchiladas milder?

For a milder version, use a mild salsa and mild enchilada sauce, and skip any spicy seasonings.

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

Yes, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas if you prefer.

10. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are the ultimate simple and satisfying meal. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, these enchiladas are sure to impress with their cheesy, savory goodness.

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