Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 10 corn or flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack mix); 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: International World Food Collection

I love whipping up this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake on busy weeknights. It's a one-dish wonder that combines all those classic enchilada flavors in a hearty and satisfying way. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tortillas, and gooey cheese, it's a meal that the whole family devours. Plus, it comes together in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for those nights when time is limited but you still want something comforting and delicious.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:33:36.258Z

When I first made this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The combination of spices in the beef filling really enhances the overall flavor, reminding me of my favorite enchiladas from a local restaurant. To keep it simple, I decided to bake it all in one dish, which not only minimizes cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

One tip I found essential is to not overfill the tortillas. It’s tempting to load them up with too much filling, but keeping them lightly packed helps them maintain their shape during baking. The final result is melty, cheesy goodness with perfectly seasoned beef. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting with layers of flavor
Easily adaptable for individual tastes
Minimal cleanup with just one baking dish

Tips for Perfecting Your Enchilada Bake

To ensure your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake has the ideal texture, consider the layering process. I recommend using slightly softened tortillas for easier layering; placing them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds can help. This prevents them from cracking as you assemble the dish. Make sure to distribute the fillings evenly to avoid a dry layer in the middle, which can occur if one ingredient, like cheese, is overly packed.

Another crucial tip is to control the moisture levels in your bake. When adding beans, corn, or cheese, use well-drained ingredients. Excess moisture can make your dish soggy. For canned corn, drain it thoroughly and rinse under cold water. If using frozen corn, opt for thawing and draining it first. These small adjustments help maintain the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your meal.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to cater to different dietary preferences. For a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef, delivering a lighter protein source while still providing a delicious base for the dish. If you're looking for vegetarian alternatives, you can replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, which also add great flavor and texture.

If you're avoiding gluten, corn tortillas are a fantastic choice, but for those sticking to a gluten-free diet, check to ensure your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are also gluten-free. You can also make your own enchilada sauce easily by blending canned tomatoes with chili powder and cumin for a fresh alternative. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility to fit your needs without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful flavor experience!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
10 corn or flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack mix)
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

With these fresh ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a masterpiece!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious bake!

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is cooked through. Drain excess grease.

Season the Beef

Stir in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well combined.

Assemble the Bake

In a baking dish, spread a layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom. Layer 2-3 tortillas, followed by half of the beef mixture, some black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with tortillas and remaining sauce on top.

Bake It

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, slice into squares, and serve hot for a fulfilling meal.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your preferred veggies or beans for extra nutrition. You can also make this dish ahead of time
just assemble it and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure that it heats through completely. I recommend letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to maintain even cooking.

For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. After baking, allow the Bake to cool completely before slicing it into portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then foil, sealing out air to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, they can go directly from the freezer into the oven at 350°F (175°C), adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake, consider serving it with a side of fresh salads or guacamole. A simple avocado salad with lime and cilantro pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the cheese. You can also add some sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a cooling contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

If you are hosting a gathering, think about presenting this dish alongside a taco bar. Offer toppings like chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce, allowing guests to customize their servings. This interactive setup not only enhances the experience but also allows everyone to enjoy the flavors they love most.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or black beans.

→ Can I freeze this enchilada bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it well in foil and store it for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This bake pairs well with a fresh salad, guacamole, or sour cream.