If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dinner, these Beef Enchiladas with Extra Cheese on Top are the perfect choice. Tender seasoned ground beef is wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese that turns golden and bubbly in the oven. This comforting Mexican-inspired dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Enchiladas
- 10 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) red enchilada sauce
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Toppings
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
Drain any excess grease.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread about ½ cup of enchilada sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
This helps prevent the enchiladas from sticking and adds flavor to every bite.
Step 3: Fill and Roll
Place a tortilla on a flat surface.
Add a generous scoop of the beef mixture down the center.
Sprinkle with a handful of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas, making sure each one is fully covered.
Step 5: Add Extra Cheese
Combine the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Cover the entire dish with a thick layer of cheese. Don’t be shy—this recipe is all about that extra cheesy topping!
Step 6: Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
This helps the filling set and makes them easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy beef enchiladas pair perfectly with:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Fresh guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Tortilla chips and salsa
- Corn salad
Tips for the Best Beef Enchiladas
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- For extra flavor, add a small can of diced green chiles to the beef filling.
- Use corn tortillas for a more authentic taste.
- Add a layer of cheese inside each tortilla and another thick layer on top.
- Broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end for a beautifully golden cheese crust.
