Name: Easy Beef Enchiladas for Busy Nights - 5 Ingredients Only
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (or ground turkey or shredded beef); 1 cup Chunky Salsa (mild or medium variety); 1 can (10-ounce) Red Enchilada Sauce (or green enchilada sauce); 8 pieces Tortillas (8-inch) (flour or corn tortillas); 8 ounces Borden® Thick Cut Shredded Four Cheese Mexican (or any blend of Mexican cheese)

In the middle of a hectic week, you might find yourself in a mini crisis—what’s for dinner? That’s where my 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas come to the rescue! These delightful wraps require minimal effort but deliver a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With tender tortillas embracing a savory beef filling and topped with melty cheese and zesty enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are not just easy to whip up, but they also make cleanup a breeze. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile: whether you prefer beef, turkey, or even a veggie twist, the variations are endless. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dig into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why are these Beef Enchiladas a must-try?

Simplicity Made Delicious: Whipping up these beef enchiladas is a breeze, requiring only five ingredients that you likely have on hand. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef, zesty salsa, and melty cheese creates a flavor that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Versatile Options: Swap in shredded chicken or a veggie mix for a tailored spin that suits your dietary needs. Looking for more inspiration? Check out my Cheesy Ground Beef for a cheesy delight or my Ground Beef Enchiladas for another quick dinner idea! Quick Cleanup: With just one baking dish to wash, you’ll have more time to relax after dinner. Comforting and Satisfying: Treat your family to a warm meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate!

Beef Enchiladas Ingredients

• Make these easy Beef Enchiladas with pantry staples!

For the Filling

Lean Ground Beef – This is the main protein source; for a lighter option, try swapping in ground turkey or shredded beef.
Chunky Salsa – Adds great flavor and moisture; choose a mild or medium variety based on your spice preference.

For Assembly

Red Enchilada Sauce (10-ounce can) – Provides moisture and enhances overall flavor; consider using green enchilada sauce for a twist.
Tortillas (8-inch, 8 pieces) – These hold everything together; flour tortillas give a soft texture, while corn tortillas offer a traditional taste.

For Topping

Borden® Thick Cut Shredded Four Cheese Mexican (8-ounce package) – Adds a creamy and cheesy layer; any blend of Mexican cheese works wonderfully too.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for ensuring that your beef enchiladas bake evenly, developing a delightful golden-brown top as they cook. Grab your trusted baking dish to have it ready for the next steps.

Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned. You’ll know it’s done when there’s no pink left and the meat is starting to sizzle. Drain any excess grease to keep your enchiladas from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients
Stir in the chunky salsa into the cooked beef, letting their flavors meld together. Simmer the mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the beef takes on a vibrant color and the aroma becomes inviting, which means it’s time to move to the next step.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread a thin layer of red enchilada sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will prevent sticking and add an extra layer of flavor, setting the stage for your beef enchiladas. Ensure the base is evenly coated for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take one tortilla at a time and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center. Sprinkle a small amount of cheese on top before rolling the tortilla tightly. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish, fitting them snugly together to maximize the flavor.

Step 6: Add More Sauce and Cheese
Once all enchiladas are rolled and in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle the leftover cheese generously across the surface. This layer will create that deliciously melty topping that everyone loves on beef enchiladas.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes; the enchiladas are done when the sauce is bubbly. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a lovely brown crust on the cheese, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Allow your beef enchiladas to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling time helps the cheese set a bit and makes them easier to serve. When you’re ready, plate them up and add any desired toppings, such as sour cream or fresh cilantro, for an extra burst of flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness with less stress! You can prepare the beef filling and assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the ground beef with salsa, then roll them up in tortillas, but instead of baking, cover and refrigerate. To maintain quality, store the enchiladas in an airtight container; this prevents them from getting soggy. When you’re ready to serve, pour enchilada sauce on top and bake directly from the refrigerator, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through. Enjoy the flavors of your quick beef enchiladas without the last-minute rush!

Storage Tips for Beef Enchiladas

Room Temperature: Leftover beef enchiladas should not be left out for more than 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Fridge: Store enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered dish at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezer: Beef enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Assemble without baking, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Bake from frozen at 350°F for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Reheating: For optimal results, reheat in the oven for a crispy texture or in the microwave for convenience, covering to retain moisture.

Beef Enchiladas: Fun Variations Await

Feel free to play around with these beef enchiladas; let your creativity shine!

Chicken Swap: Replace ground beef with shredded chicken for a lighter take. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Turkey Twist: Ground turkey makes for a healthier alternative while keeping the flavor rich and satisfying.
Saucy Switch: Try using green enchilada sauce instead of red for a fresh flavor profile that surprises the taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Add black beans, corn, or spinach to the beef mixture for a delightful nutritional punch. The added texture and flavor really elevate the dish.
Cheese Delight: Experiment with different cheese blends, like pepper jack for a spicy kick, or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Tortilla Variety: Mix it up with both flour and corn tortillas—each offers a unique texture and taste experience.
Heat it Up: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the filling for those who enjoy a fiery bite. It’s all about that personalized kick!

As you explore these delightful variations, remember that every twist helps create a meal that’s just right for your table. For more ideas, don’t miss my High Protein Enchiladas for a nourishing twist or check out the classic Ground Beef Enchiladas that everyone raves about!

What to Serve with 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these savory enchiladas with delightful sides and complementary flavors.

Spanish Rice: This fluffy rice dish infused with spices pairs perfectly, absorbing the rich enchilada sauce. A bowl of vibrant Spanish rice adds a colorful touch to your meal.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans provide a satisfying contrast to the chewy enchiladas. Together, they create a well-rounded protein-packed dinner.
Fresh Guacamole: The cool, creamy texture of guacamole offers a refreshing contrast to the warm enchiladas. Plus, the vibrant flavors bring an extra layer of zest to each bite.
Chopped Salad: A crisp salad with greens, tomatoes, and a tangy lime dressing helps balance the richness of the dish. The freshness of the salad rounds out the meal beautifully.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy richness that complements the spices in the enchiladas. It’s the perfect finishing touch that cools down the heat.
Pineapple Salsa: The sweet and spicy notes of pineapple salsa provide a burst of flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the savory beef.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime over the enchiladas enhances their flavor with a zesty brightness. It’s a simple addition that can make a big difference!
Classic Margarita: For an adult beverage, a refreshing margarita pairs well, complementing the bold flavors of the enchiladas. It adds a festive vibe to your dinner table.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, these sweet, crispy treats are the perfect way to end a satisfying meal. They bring a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to balance the savory main course.

Expert Tips for Beef Enchiladas

Prevent Soggy Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a firmer texture or bake covered with foil before removing it to let excess moisture escape.
Freezing Advice: Assemble the enchiladas without baking if you plan to freeze them. Bake from frozen for 15-20 extra minutes at 350°F.
Ensure Cheese Perfection: Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to achieve a deliciously golden-brown cheese topping on your beef enchiladas.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter version and try green enchilada sauce for a different twist.
Mix-In Ideas: Boost nutrition by adding black beans or spinach to the beef mixture, enhancing both flavor and health benefits for your family.

5 Ingredient Quick & Easy Beef Enchiladas Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right tortillas?
Absolutely! For these beef enchiladas, I recommend using 8-inch flour tortillas as they lend a soft texture that wraps beautifully around the filling. However, if you’re looking for a traditional approach, corn tortillas work just as well and provide a firmer bite. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas may need a quick dip in hot oil before filling to prevent tearing!

How should I store leftover enchiladas?
Very! To ensure your beef enchiladas remain fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 3 days to maintain flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in a covered dish at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes.

Can I freeze beef enchiladas, and how?
Certainly! To freeze beef enchiladas, assemble them in your baking dish without baking. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or wrap in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the freezer, unwrap, and bake from frozen at 350°F for an additional 15-20 minutes, adjusting the time based on your oven’s performance.

What should I do if my enchiladas are soggy?
Oh no! If you find your beef enchiladas are soggy, it could be due to excess moisture. To combat this, make sure to drain any grease from the ground beef and avoid overfilling the tortillas. Additionally, using corn tortillas or covering the baking dish with foil for the initial baking period can help reduce moisture retention. Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to allow for browning and crisping.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! These beef enchiladas incorporate several dietary options. If you or anyone in your family has a gluten allergy, consider using gluten-free tortillas. For dairy sensitivities, swapping out the cheese with a dairy-free alternative could work. Always consult your family’s needs, and feel free to customize the solution to match everyone’s preferences!

How can I spice up these enchiladas?
Looking to add a little kick? You might try using a spicy salsa or add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. Another idea is to sprinkle some chili powder or cumin into the beef while it cooks. This slight adjustment can elevate the flavors and provide an extra burst of flavor that your family will love!