Description
This quick and easy one-pan dinner is a perfect weeknight meal! Ground beef is cooked with onions, spices, and enchilada sauce, then topped with tortillas and melted cheese for a hearty, flavorful dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, these Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a comforting and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef Skillet Enchiladas:
- 1 lb ground beef: The main protein for the dish. You can use lean ground beef, or a higher fat content for a richer flavor.
- 1 medium onion: Diced, for sweetness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, to add savory depth.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade seasoning): Adds a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: The classic sauce that gives the dish its rich flavor.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Torn or cut into pieces for layering, or use corn tortillas if preferred for a more traditional flavor.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies: Adds a bit of heat and tang.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For melting into the dish. You can also use Mexican blend cheese for a more authentic flavor.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: For that creamy, melty texture.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For cooking the beef and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish.
- Sour cream: For topping the dish and balancing the spices.
- Sliced green onions: For a bit of freshness and crunch.
- Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra heat.
- Lime wedges: To squeeze over the top for added zing.
Instructions
First Step: COOK THE BEEF
- Prepare the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Be sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning blend) and the diced green chilies. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to evenly coat the beef mixture with the spices.
Second Step: ASSEMBLE THE ENCHILADAS
- Add the Enchilada Sauce: Pour the enchilada sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to heat through and thicken slightly.
- Layer the Tortillas: Tear or cut the flour tortillas into strips or squares and add them to the skillet. Gently fold them into the beef mixture so the tortillas soak up the sauce. You want the tortillas to soften and mix with the beef and sauce, creating layers throughout the skillet. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can leave the tortillas on top for a few minutes longer.
- Add the Cheese: Once the tortillas have softened, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top of the beef and tortillas. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
Third Step: FINISH AND GARNISH
- Remove from Heat: Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Beef Skillet Enchiladas with chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and jalapeños for added flavor and crunch. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of citrus.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the enchiladas into portions and serve hot. The combination of the savory beef, melted cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce is sure to please everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 30g