Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup sour cream; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake! It’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner, combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients that my whole family enjoys. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you can customize it based on your preferences. I like to use fresh tortillas and my own blend of spices, which takes the flavor to the next level. Plus, it’s all baked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:37.442Z

When I first made this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how delicious it turned out. Using a mix of spices and fresh ingredients really makes a difference in the flavor. I learned that browning the meat and adding onions enhances the overall taste, giving a depth that’s hard to resist.

Another tip I picked up is layering the tortillas properly. Instead of just wadding them up, I lay them flat and add sauces and cheese in between. This ensures that every bite is perfectly cheesy and packed with flavor. It was a hit at our family dinner!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef combined with zesty enchilada sauce
Layers of melted cheese that pull apart beautifully
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

Ingredient Insights

The ground beef is the star of this dish, providing a savory base that complements the spices and sauces beautifully. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease; this will keep your dish from becoming overly oily. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. Make sure to brown the meat thoroughly, achieving a nice sear to enhance the overall taste of the bake.

Corn tortillas give this enchilada bake its signature texture and flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are perfect and don't require any special substitutes. In contrast, flour tortillas can be used if you prefer a softer bite. To prevent tearing, warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds before layering; this helps them become more pliable.

Baking Tips

When layering the ingredients, be mindful of distributing the beef and cheese evenly. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. It can be tempting to overload the layers, but doing so might result in uneven cooking. Stick to the suggested amounts so your bake maintains its structure and you achieve that perfect melty cheese topping.

During the baking process, removing the aluminum foil partway through is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden cheese crust. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes; every oven is different, and you want to catch it before it goes from bubbly to burned. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and starting to brown around the edges for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup sour cream
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for assembly.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Mix in Sauces and Spices

Add the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of the beef mixture at the bottom. Layer 4 tortillas over it, followed by half of the cheese, and then more of the beef mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with tortillas and the remaining cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes, then serve with sour cream and fresh cilantro on top.

Enjoy your delicious and satisfying Ground Beef Enchilada Bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture. You can also use flour tortillas if you prefer
they will add a different texture to the bake.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delightful as a standalone meal, but it can also be served alongside a fresh, crunchy salad or some zesty Mexican rice to round out your dinner. To bring a pop of freshness, consider adding some diced avocado or sliced jalapeños on top when serving. These additions not only enhance the flavors but also add a touch of color to your plate.

For larger gatherings, portion out the Ground Beef Enchilada Bake into individual servings. This makes it easier for guests to help themselves, and you can also pair each portion with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for that gourmet touch. It's a dinner party winner that everyone will appreciate.

Make-Ahead and Storage

The Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is fantastic for make-ahead dinners. You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the bake up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quick servings, although the oven will maintain the cheese's melty texture better. This dish also freezes well; just wrap portions tightly and enjoy them within three months for best quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef with a mixture of beans and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.

→ What side dishes pair well with this bake?

Serve with a side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.