Ground Beef Enchilada Bake

Name: Ground Beef Enchilada Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 6 small flour tortillas; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Cooking

I love making this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake because it combines all the flavors of traditional enchiladas in a simple, layered dish that the whole family enjoys. The savory ground beef mixed with zesty enchilada sauce and gooey cheese creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, I can prep it in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to recipe whenever I need something delicious and satisfying without spending all evening in the kitchen.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:37:35.905Z

Creating this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake has become a culinary tradition for me over the years. One time I decided to experiment by using a mix of spices beyond the typical taco seasoning, and it added a delightful depth of flavor that surprised everyone at the table. Using freshly grated cheese on top provides a beautiful melt that ties the entire dish together, making each bite irresistible.

I've also learned that baking the dish uncovered during the final 10 minutes ensures a beautifully golden top, which not only looks appetizing but also enhances the flavor. If you want to spice things up, feel free to add jalapeños or a kick of cayenne pepper for an extra zing!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of savory flavors that everyone will crave
Quick and easy prep time for busy nights
Golden, cheesy topping that is simply irresistible

Mastering the Layers

Layering is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in this Ground Beef Enchilada Bake. Start with two tortillas at the base; this gives a sturdy foundation and helps to absorb some of the sauce's moisture without becoming soggy. When layering the beef, cheese, and tortillas, ensure even distribution to maximize flavor in each bite. Visualize a lasagna format, creating a harmonious relationship between the layers as they meld during baking.

When adding the cheese, don't skimp! I recommend measuring out the cheese and sprinkling it in stages. This method creates a gooey, stretchy texture that enhances the overall experience. Reserve a bit of cheese for the top layer to achieve that golden, bubbly finish that is so inviting. Watch for the cheese to start bubbling and browning slightly at the edges; that’s when you know it’s ready to come out.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese can significantly alter the flavor profile of your enchilada bake. While cheddar offers a sharp bite, a Mexican blend brings a range of flavors with its inclusion of Monterey Jack and others. I often like to mix cheeses for a more complex flavor. For a tangy kick, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese before serving, which will give a delightful contrast to the richness of the beef and the melted cheese.

Using freshly minced garlic instead of pre-chopped enhances the dish's aroma and flavor intensity. Garlic poorly stored can lose its flavor; it should be firm to the touch and smell pungent. Additionally, if you have leftover cooked chicken, taco meat, or even black beans, feel free to substitute them in place of the ground beef to customize the dish to your pantry and preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
6 small flour tortillas
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything, you’re ready to assemble and bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.

Add Flavor

Stir in the enchilada sauce, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Layer the Ingredients

In a baking dish, layer 2 tortillas, half of the beef mixture, and a third of the cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with remaining tortillas and cheese on the top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Serving this dish with a side of sour cream or guacamole elevates it to the next level!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils and add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.

Make-Ahead Options

This Ground Beef Enchilada Bake is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire assembly the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. When you’re ready to eat, add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time, and check for doneness. This way, all the flavors have time to meld, creating an even richer taste.

If you want to keep servings on hand for quick meals, consider dividing the bake into individual portions after it has cooled. Store them in airtight containers in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, around 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Enchilada Bake when serving, consider accompanying it with a refreshing side salad or some guacamole to contrast the rich flavors. A simple green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette can balance the dish’s savory notes beautifully, providing a light, crisp texture with every bite.

For an authentic touch, serve with a side of sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro. These add brightness and creaminess that enhance the overall dish. If you want to spice things up, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of pickled jalapeños can add a pleasing heat that complements the savory undertones of the bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Can I freeze the enchilada bake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Feel free to top it with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced olives for added flavor and freshness.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.