Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: International Culinary Magic

When it comes to comforting meals, I absolutely love making a hearty Ground Beef Enchilada Bake. The combination of spiced beef, warm tortillas, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. I enjoy crafting this dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in, as it's both satisfying and easy to prepare. My secret lies in using a zesty enchilada sauce and a blend of spices that elevate the flavors, making every bite a delight. This recipe is a surefire way to impress your loved ones while keeping your kitchen cleanup minimal.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:21:36.000Z

From the moment I decided to try my hand at a Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, I knew I was in for a treat. Preparing the filling with a mix of onions, garlic, and a variety of spices creates a rich, aromatic base that fills my kitchen with irresistible scents. This step is crucial, as it ensures that every layer is packed with flavor, which I find elevates the entire dish.

Over the years, I've perfected my technique for layering the tortillas and beef. Instead of simply stacking them, I slightly overlap each tortilla, allowing them to crisp and hold their shape when baked. Adding a generous amount of cheese on top not only creates a beautiful golden crust but also adds that melty goodness everyone loves. I can’t recommend this method enough!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy and savory beef filling bursting with flavor
Creamy melted cheese that brings everything together
Simple preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using 80/20 ground beef strikes a perfect balance between flavor and juiciness, ensuring your beef remains tender throughout the baking process. I recommend using freshly chopped onions and garlic; their aromatic properties elevate the overall taste of the dish significantly. A good enchilada sauce is essential as it adds depth and moisture, so choose one that suits your heat preference, whether store-bought or homemade.

Corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas, offering a delightful texture that holds up well during baking. If you prefer a gluten-free alternative, try substituting with gluten-free tortillas available at most grocery stores. While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor, experiment with other cheese blends for unique taste profiles. Mexican blends often bring a delightful spiciness, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. The choice of cheese can dramatically influence the overall flavor of your bake.

Baking Technique Tips

For perfectly assembled enchiladas, layering techniques are key. Start by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake. When overlapping the tortillas, aim for half coverage to maximize the beef and cheese layers, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on the layering process—three layers typically yield the best mix of textures and flavors without sacrificing structural integrity once sliced.

When baking, covering the dish with aluminum foil initially traps steam, helping the cheese melt uniformly and preventing browning too quickly. During the last ten minutes of baking, removing the foil allows the cheese to bubble and turn golden. If your cheese isn’t melting as desired, you can place the dish under the broiler for a minute or two, but watch closely to avoid burning. This technique adds a crispy, delightful finish and intensifies the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your enchilada bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.

Assemble the Bake

In a baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce. Place 4 tortillas on the bottom, overlapping them slightly. Layer half of the beef mixture, followed by a third of the cheese. Repeat with another layer of tortillas, beef, and sauce. Finish with the remaining tortillas, sauce, and cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or diced green chiles to the beef mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered with foil. Simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking. If you'd like to prepare it further in advance, feel free to freeze it. Cover the assembled bake tightly with plastic wrap and foil; it can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly when cooking from frozen.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the beef and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, consider serving it with a fresh salad of mixed greens lightly dressed in lime vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad balances the rich, gooey layers of the dish beautifully. Additionally, a side of guacamole or homemade pico de gallo can elevate the dining experience, adding vibrant freshness with every bite.

If you want a kick, have some jalapeño slices or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat. This recipe also lends itself well to customizable toppings—sour cream and shredded lettuce could be fantastic additions. Let your guests personalize their servings for a festive touch at gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, shredded chicken or turkey work well as alternatives to ground beef.

→ What can I substitute for tortillas?

You can use flour tortillas or even zucchini slices for a low-carb option.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the bake and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover enchilada bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.