5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas: A Simple Recipe for a Flavorful Meal

When you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are the perfect solution. These enchiladas combine hearty beef, tangy salsa, rich enchilada sauce, melty cheese, and soft tortillas into a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that feels like a labor of love without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

These enchiladas are everything you want in a meal: simple, flavorful, and customizable. They’re ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish at home. Plus, the minimal ingredient list makes them budget-friendly and accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Lean ground beef	1 pound
Chunky salsa	1 cup
Red enchilada sauce	1 (10-ounce) can
Tortillas (8-inch)	8 (flour or corn)
Shredded Four Cheese Mexican blend	8 ounces (about 2 cups)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Beef Filling

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat.
• Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and return the meat to the skillet.
• Stir in the chunky salsa and cook over medium-low heat until the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

• Pour half of the enchilada sauce evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Warm the tortillas according to the package instructions to make them easier to roll.
• Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with a heaping tablespoon of shredded cheese.
• Roll each tortilla tightly and place it seam side down in the baking dish.

4. Add the Sauce and Cheese

• Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the enchiladas cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

The combination of seasoned beef, zesty salsa, and rich enchilada sauce ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

2. Simple Preparation

With just five ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or beginner cooks looking to make a satisfying meal.

3. Customizable Options

You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs by swapping ingredients or adding extras.

Serving Suggestions

While these enchiladas are delicious on their own, you can elevate the meal by serving them with complementary sides:

• Mexican Rice: A fluffy, seasoned side dish that pairs perfectly with the enchiladas.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and flavorful, refried beans add extra protein and texture.
• Tortilla Chips and Salsa: For a crunchy, zesty addition.
• Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado provides a refreshing balance.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Protein	20g
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	800mg
Total Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g
Sugars	4g

Tips for Perfect 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for lean ground beef and fresh salsa for the best flavor.
2. Warm the Tortillas: This prevents them from cracking when rolling.
3. Customize the Filling: Add black beans, corn, or diced green chilies for extra texture and flavor.
4. Double the Recipe: These enchiladas freeze well, so consider making a double batch for future meals.
5. Experiment with Cheese: Swap the Four Cheese Mexican blend for Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

FAQs About 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes! Corn tortillas are more traditional in enchilada recipes. Warm them before rolling to prevent cracking.

2. How do I store leftovers?

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

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas but don’t bake them. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready to serve.

4. What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles are excellent substitutes.

5. Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Yes! Place the assembled, unbaked enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, use a spicy salsa, or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture.

Conclusion

5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor. With minimal effort and maximum taste, these enchiladas are perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to casual gatherings.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself and your family to this easy and delicious dish. Your taste buds will thank you!

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