Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas, cut in halves; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: World Flavor Essentials

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Enchilada Bake for my family! The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and it’s a dish that guarantees empty plates and satisfied smiles. Each layer is packed with savory ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, creating a warm and comforting meal. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! I can put it together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:57:35.577Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was blown away by how simple and flavorful it turned out. I used a blend of spices that elevated the ground beef, and the enchilada sauce gave it a delightful tanginess. It was a hit with the family, and now it’s part of our regular dinner rotation!

One tip I found invaluable is to let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving. It allows the layers to set and makes slicing much easier. Plus, the flavors meld even more, making each bite deliciously satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich layers of ground beef and cheese
Zesty flavors of enchilada sauce
Easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Layering

When it comes to Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, the way you layer your ingredients can greatly affect the final outcome. Starting with a base of tortillas not only provides structural integrity but also helps absorb some of the moisture from the beef and sauce, creating a delightful balance. Make sure to cover every inch of the dish with beef and cheese to ensure every bite is as flavorful as the last. It's the layering that gives the dish its enticing presentation and varied texture.

I recommend arranging the tortillas in a slightly overlapped fashion, which can help create a crisp edge as they bake. If you cut your tortillas into halves and arrange them in an overlapping pattern, they will meld beautifully together. You can also experiment with adding a sprinkle of cheese between each layer; this creates additional gooeyness and flavor that elevates the whole dish. Don't skip the foil during the first baking phase, as it traps steam, helping to melt the cheese evenly.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

This Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, however, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking so it can come to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly without any cold spots.

If you're looking to store leftovers, simply let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. The bake will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze portions for up to two months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to preserve moisture. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating to restore that bubbly, golden look.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

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

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to making this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Add the enchilada sauce and mix well.

Layer the Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the tortilla halves on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture on top, then sprinkle with half of the cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef, and cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and enjoy your meal!

Now your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to tweak this recipe for dietary preferences, there are plenty of simple substitutions you can make. For a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef without sacrificing too much flavor. Just make sure to season it well to compensate for any reduction in richness. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, consider adding black beans, lentils, or sautéed mushrooms as a protein source, while still enjoying the heartiness of the dish.

Cheese selection offers room for creativity as well—while cheddar or a Mexican blend works perfectly, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or vegan cheese for dairy-free needs. Keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so your choice may affect the final texture. Don’t forget to adjust any spices if you change the protein or cheese to maintain a balanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, consider serving it with fresh sides like a crisp green salad or some seasoned corn on the cob. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of lime juice on top just before serving can add a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness. Sliced avocados or guacamole also pair beautifully, adding creaminess that complements the savory heartiness of the bake.

For those who love a little crunch, tortilla chips sprinkled alongside the dish are a great way to add texture. You could even transform the leftovers into a delightful lunch by turning them into enchiladas; simply roll the filling in new tortillas, lay them side by side in a baking dish, cover with enchilada sauce, and bake until bubbly. This adds versatility to now-weekly staples!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and is a leaner option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to cover it well and use it within 2 months for the best quality.