Easy Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and hearty dinner idea, this Easy Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas recipe is a total game-changer. Bringing together tender ground beef, savory beans, and a rich enchilada sauce wrapped in soft tortillas, this dish strikes the perfect balance of comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal or prepping for the week ahead, these enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick weeknight favorite: Ready in under an hour, it fits perfectly into busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
• Hearty and filling: The combination of beef and beans creates a protein-packed meal that keeps you satisfied.
• Kid-friendly and versatile: Mild flavors with customizable spice levels make it a hit for all ages.
• Meal prep champion: Makes great leftovers and freezes beautifully for future meals.
• Simple ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples you probably already have on hand, making it budget-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward with ingredients that bring vibrant flavors and textures to the table, ensuring each bite of your Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas is just right.

• Ground beef: Choose lean beef for a balanced taste and healthier result.
• Canned beans: Pinto or black beans add creaminess and fiber.
• Enchilada sauce: Store-bought or homemade, it’s the soul of this dish with its rich, tangy kick.
• Flour or corn tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping all the filling.
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully on top for gooey goodness.
• Onion and garlic: These aromatics boost flavor complexity with minimal effort.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth.
• Fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a burst of freshness for garnish and layered flavor.

Variations for Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. The beauty of Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas is how easy it is to swap ingredients or adjust flavors to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Vegetarian swap: Replace beef with extra beans, veggies, or plant-based meat alternatives for a meat-free version.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a smoky heat boost.
• Cheese variations: Try queso fresco or pepper jack for a different cheesy flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Use corn tortillas to keep this dish gluten-free without losing any taste.
• Extra veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added color and nutrition.

How to Make Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas

Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Bean Filling

Start by sautéing diced onion and minced garlic in a skillet until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir in your choice of beans along with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

Lightly warm your tortillas to make them soft and pliable. This prevents cracking when you roll them and helps them soak up the savory filling and sauce without falling apart.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Lay out a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of beef and bean mixture down the center. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, then roll it up tightly. Place each rolled enchilada seam-side down in a greased baking dish, lining them up snugly next to each other.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one is well covered. Top with the remaining shredded cheese for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake your assembled enchiladas at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresher tortillas roll easier and absorb the flavors better.
• Don’t overfill: Keep filling amounts moderate to prevent tearing during rolling.
• Let it rest: After baking, allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes to set nicely before serving.
• Boost sauce flavor: Warm your enchilada sauce slightly before pouring to better integrate flavors.
• Customize cheese: Mix cheeses for a balance of meltiness and sharpness.

How to Serve Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take your enchiladas to the next level. Think chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, or even a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish.

Side Dishes

Complement with Spanish rice or Mexican-style street corn for a complete meal. A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich enchiladas.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your enchiladas family-style straight from the baking dish for cozy dinners or plate individually with garnishes artfully arranged for a vibrant, restaurant-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They hold moisture well and remain flavorful.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble the enchiladas and freeze them unbaked in a tightly wrapped dish for up to 2 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a bit of extra time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes for best texture, or microwave in short bursts to warm through quickly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and pairs well with the beans and spices to keep that hearty texture.

What type of beans works best?

Pinto and black beans are classic choices, offering creamy texture and mild flavor that complement the beef and sauce perfectly.

Is it necessary to use both cheese and sauce?

Yes, both provide different flavors and textures: the sauce adds moisture and tang, while the cheese creates a melty, savory topping.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes, by substituting ground beef with plant-based crumbles and using vegan cheese along with a suitable enchilada sauce, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version.

How spicy are these enchiladas?

The base recipe is mild and very kid-friendly but can easily be adjusted by adding more chili powder or fresh peppers for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Ready to bring something deliciously comforting and easy to your dinner table? These Baked Beef & Bean Enchiladas offer a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and heartiness that will satisfy everyone at the family table. Give this recipe a try, personalize it to your taste, and enjoy a meal that’s as practical as it is tasty.

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