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 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Inspiration

I love making this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake when I want a hearty meal that's quick to prepare. The combination of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and cheesy goodness intertwines perfectly to create a comforting, satisfying dish. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe delivers both in flavor and presentation. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time and reheat, making it ideal for meal prep. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:34.509Z

When I first made Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, I was surprised by how the layers of flavor developed in just one dish. I seasoned the beef with a touch of cumin and chili powder, enhancing the flavor profile. The trick is to use fresh tortillas instead of chips for better texture and a delightful bite. I also love adding black beans for protein!

This dish not only offers warmth on a chilly evening but brings smiles around the table. Baking it until bubbly and golden makes the cheese stretch beautifully as you serve it. I recommend adding fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef infused with rich enchilada flavors
Melted cheese topping that is irresistibly gooey
A complete meal in one dish, making cleanup a breeze

Getting Started

The foundation of the Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is a solid mixture of seasoned ground beef, which gives the dish its hearty flavor. To achieve the best taste, it's crucial to brown the meat in a skillet over medium heat, allowing the beef to develop a nice crust before draining off excess fat. This not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the dish from becoming greasy. I recommend using lean ground beef (around 80/20) for a good balance of richness without excess oil.

Incorporating onions and garlic is essential for building depth. The onions should be softened before adding the garlic, as garlic cooks much faster and can burn easily if added too soon. I recommend sautéing the onions until they turn translucent and fragrant, usually around 5 minutes. This step lays the groundwork for a robust flavor profile that will elevate your enchilada bake.

Layering for Success

When layering your ingredients, it’s important to ensure that the tortilla strips are evenly distributed to prevent any dry spots. Cutting the tortillas into strips rather than using whole ones allows for better coverage and increased texture throughout the bake. This way, each bite will include the soft tortillas that soak up the flavors from the beef and sauce, creating that satisfying, layered experience we crave in an enchilada dish.

After layering, don’t skip the cheese! It’s not just for flavor; cheese is what binds the layers together during baking, creating that gooey, melty top that everyone loves. Using a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack can add a lovely complexity to the flavor. Just be sure to save enough cheese to generously sprinkle on the top layer for a beautiful golden finish.

Serving and Storing

Once it’s out of the oven, let your enchilada bake cool for at least 5 minutes. This resting time helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. A drizzle of fresh cilantro on top not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the flavors nicely. I love serving it with a side of sour cream or guacamole to complement the spiciness of the enchilada sauce—it's a delightful pairing!

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the entire bake and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be aware that the tortillas might absorb more sauce, making it a bit softer, but it still tastes fantastic. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture, avoiding the microwave which can make it soggy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Gather all these ingredients to get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps for an easy Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.

Mix in the Sauce and Beans

Stir in the enchilada sauce and black beans, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help meld the flavors together.

Layer the Ingredients

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips on the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with a cup of cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.

Bake the Enchilada

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips on top before baking. You could also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat. Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side for extra flavor!

Creating Flavor Boosts

To amp up the flavor of the enchilada sauce, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a tablespoon of chipotle in adobo. This will contribute a smoky, spicy note that complements the beef beautifully. Remember, the spice level can be adjusted by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce based on your preferences, and even adding diced jalapeños for an extra kick in the beef mixture works wonders.

You can also experiment with different beans aside from black beans. Pinto beans or kidney beans can be used for a change in flavor and texture. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try using lentils instead, which will provide a similar protein boost without sacrificing the heartiness of the bake.

Meal Prep and Freezing Tips

For those who enjoy meal prepping, this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is perfect for batch cooking. You can prepare multiple trays and freeze them before baking. To do this, assemble the dish in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, increasing the baking time by about 10 minutes if cooking from frozen.

Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave or toaster oven, making it easy to serve on busy weeknights. To maintain the best texture, cover with a damp paper towel when microwaving to keep moisture in, preventing it from drying out. This makes the Ground Beef Enchilada Bake not just a meal, but a versatile option for various occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!

→ Can I freeze this enchilada bake?

Absolutely! Just make sure it's in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, rice, or guacamole to balance the flavors.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

The spiciness can be adjusted by adding less chili powder or using a mild enchilada sauce.