5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, look no further than this 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe. Enchiladas are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and this recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of complex ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas
This 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe is designed to simplify your cooking without sacrificing taste. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of juicy, seasoned beef wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a rich sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
The Best Part? It’s Quick and Easy
With just five ingredients, this recipe can be put together in under an hour, making it a go-to meal when you’re short on time but still want a wholesome dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: the fewer ingredients, the less time spent prepping and the more delicious the end result.
Versatile for Any Taste
Even with just five ingredients, this recipe can be easily modified to suit different tastes. Want to make it spicier? Add some jalapeños or hot sauce. Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap the beef for beans or grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe perfect for customization.
The 5 Key Ingredients
Before diving into the preparation steps, let’s take a closer look at the five essential ingredients that make this 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe so special. You won’t find any complicated or hard-to-pronounce ingredients here—just simple, easy-to-find items that deliver maximum flavor.
1. Ground Beef
Ground beef serves as the main protein for this dish. It’s rich and flavorful, and it forms the base of your enchilada filling. Depending on your preferences, you can choose lean ground beef for a lighter option or go for a fattier blend for a juicier and more flavorful filling.
2. Enchilada Sauce
A key component of this recipe, enchilada sauce provides the deep, savory flavor that envelops each tortilla and filling. For a shortcut, you can purchase a pre-made enchilada sauce, but homemade enchilada sauce is always an option for those looking to elevate the dish.
3. Flour Tortillas
Flour tortillas are soft, pliable, and perfect for holding the beef filling and sauce. They’re easy to roll and bake, making them ideal for enchiladas. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use corn tortillas instead.
4. Shredded Cheese
Shredded cheese is the gooey, melty topping that ties the whole dish together. Cheddar cheese is commonly used for enchiladas, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, a Mexican cheese blend, or even a spicy pepper jack for an added kick.
5. Onion (Optional but Highly Recommended)
While not technically essential, onions add a subtle sweetness and a little extra crunch that complements the beef filling. Dice them finely to ensure they cook down and blend seamlessly with the meat. If you’re looking for more flavor, caramelized onions would also be a fantastic addition.
How to Make 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know the ingredients, let’s walk through how to assemble this delicious 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe. The process is straightforward, but the result is nothing short of spectacular.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your enchiladas cook evenly and become bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease in the pan, drain it off to avoid overly greasy enchiladas.
Add the chopped onions to the pan with the beef, if using, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper, or add a pinch of chili powder and cumin to deepen the flavor profile.
Step 3: Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
If you’re using store-bought enchilada sauce, simply pour it into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. If you prefer to make your own, you can mix a combination of tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder to make a quick and easy homemade enchilada sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Now it’s time to assemble the enchiladas! Start by lightly greasing a baking dish. Place a tortilla in the center of the dish and spoon a generous portion of the beef mixture down the center. Drizzle some enchilada sauce over the beef and top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Carefully roll up the tortilla around the filling and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas until the dish is filled. Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake the enchiladas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas are slightly crispy.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
Once your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are out of the oven, top them with some fresh cilantro, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for an added burst of flavor. Serve with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
Tips for Making Perfect Beef Enchiladas
While the recipe is already simple, here are a few tips to make sure your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas turn out perfectly every time.
Use Lean Beef for a Healthier Version
If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) is a great choice. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
Don’t Skip the Sauce!
The enchilada sauce is the star of this dish, so don’t skimp on it. If you like a spicier kick, opt for a hot enchilada sauce or add a few slices of fresh jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Roll the Tortillas Tight
When rolling your enchiladas, make sure to roll them tightly so that they stay together during baking. This will help them hold their shape and ensure the filling doesn’t spill out.
Cheese: The Melting Factor
For the best melt, use shredded cheese rather than pre-sliced cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and evenly, giving you that perfectly gooey texture.
Variations of 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas
While the basic 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try depending on your taste preferences.
Add Some Heat
If you like things spicy, consider adding diced green chilies, sliced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also swap the mild enchilada sauce for a spicier version to kick things up a notch.
Make It Veggie-Friendly
For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for black beans, refried beans, or even sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. This is a great way to cater to different dietary preferences.
Top with Fresh Ingredients
For a fresh twist, garnish your enchiladas with diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of creamy Mexican crema. A little bit of fresh lettuce or cilantro also adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Serving Suggestions for Your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas
Enchiladas are a hearty, satisfying dish on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for sides that complement your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas perfectly.
Mexican Rice
A classic accompaniment to enchiladas, Mexican rice is savory and slightly spiced, making it the perfect side to balance the rich beef and cheese. You can make it from scratch with tomatoes, garlic, and onion or use a pre-packaged version for a quicker option.
Refried Beans
Creamy refried beans are another classic side that pairs beautifully with enchiladas. They add a smooth, velvety texture and can be made from scratch or heated from a can for convenience.
Guacamole and Chips
If you’re serving enchiladas as part of a larger spread, don’t forget the guacamole and tortilla chips. The creamy guac and crunchy chips are a perfect starter while the enchiladas bake.
A Crisp Salad
A simple salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the enchiladas and provide a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion: The Perfect 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas
This 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these enchiladas will be a hit every time. Easy to make, customizable, and incredibly tasty—what more could you ask for?
By following the simple steps and using just a few quality ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in no time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this mouthwatering dish tonight. Enjoy!
5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup enchilada sauce store-bought or homemade
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 small onion optional, diced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add onions (optional): If using, add the diced onion to the beef and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the enchiladas: In a greased baking dish, place a tortilla, add a portion of the cooked beef mixture, a drizzle of enchilada sauce, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or lime wedges. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the enchiladas but do not bake.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. - To bake, remove from the freezer and bake as usual, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
- Variations:
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. - Add chili powder, cumin, or garlic powder to the beef for extra flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, use black beans or sautéed veggies as the filling.