If you’re craving Tex-Mex comfort food, Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas hit every note with their savory beef filling, creamy beans, zesty sauce, and a gloriously golden, bubbly layer of cheese. The combination is heartwarming and crowd-pleasing—these enchiladas are just as perfect for busy weeknights as they are for casual dinner parties. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll love how this dish comes together beautifully every single time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas lies in the harmony of its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one brings a special touch, from building deep flavor in the filling to creating that mouthwatering cheesy topping that holds the whole dish together.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures the beef doesn’t stick to the pan while browning.
- Ground beef: The hearty, savory base that soaks up all those Tex-Mex spices.
- Yellow onion: Infuses natural sweetness and a mellow bite once sautéed.
- Garlic: Gives aromatic depth and a punch of traditional flavor you’ll notice in every bite.
- Ground cumin: Delivers earthy warmth and that instantly recognizable enchilada flavor.
- Chili powder: Adds subtle heat and vibrant color to the filling.
- Paprika: Offers mild smokiness and rounds out the spice blend.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, so don’t skip it!
- Refried beans: Creamy, protein-packed, and the secret to a luscious, cohesive filling.
- Red enchilada sauce: Tangy and savory, it brings everything together and keeps the tortillas moist while baking.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, salty, and perfectly gooey on top and inside each enchilada.
- Flour tortillas (8-inch): Soft and pliable, easy to roll around that awesome filling.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal note for garnish and eye-popping color.
How to Make Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it preheats, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and your Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas come out perfect.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Once it’s nearly cooked through, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the onion softens and the aroma from the garlic fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Stir everything together so those spices wrap every piece of beef and onion, giving your filling its classic Tex-Mex profile.
Step 4: Add Beans and Sauce
Melt in the can of refried beans and pour in half of the red enchilada sauce. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and heated through—you’ll see the filling turn creamy and rich, the foundation of Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas’ irresistible texture.
Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
Ladle about 1/3 cup of the beef-bean filling onto each tortilla, then sprinkle with a little cheddar cheese. Roll each tortilla tightly, tucking in the edges if you like, and place seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they’re generously coated. Sprinkle the rest of your cheddar cheese all over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is richly golden and bubbling—classic Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas perfection!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, shower your enchiladas with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color. Serve warm and watch everyone’s face light up at the first cheesy, savory bite.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas
Garnishes
There’s nothing quite like a handful of freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a scattering of sliced green onions crowning your Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas. For extra flair, try diced avocado or thinly sliced jalapeños—you get extra creaminess or subtle heat in every forkful.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with bright, zesty sides like Mexican rice, charro beans, or classic corn salad. Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with lime juice and a pinch of salt offers a refreshing contrast to the melty, savory main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn your Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas into a festive spread, try arranging them in a colorful baking dish and garnishing with edible flowers or extra herbs. Serve each enchilada on a bed of shredded lettuce and top with a drizzle of crema for a restaurant-style finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover enchiladas directly in the baking dish, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners through the week.
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead, Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas freeze beautifully. Assemble them right up to the point of baking, then wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover the enchiladas with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through—about 15 to 20 minutes should do the trick. For individual portions, the microwave works well, but add a splash of enchilada sauce before reheating to keep each bite deliciously moist.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are traditional in many enchilada recipes and add a subtle, earthy flavor. Wrapping them while warm or quickly dipping in sauce can help prevent tearing.
How can I make Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas vegetarian?
Just leave out the ground beef and add extra beans, roasted vegetables like bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.
What can I do if my sauce is too spicy?
If your enchilada sauce has more kick than you like, balance the heat with a splash of tomato sauce or a bit of heavy cream stirred into the sauce before pouring it over the enchiladas.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas can be assembled and refrigerated up to 2 days ahead. Just bake them off when you’re ready for a fantastic meal without the fuss.
What cheeses work best besides cheddar?
If you want to mix things up, try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for extra meltiness and flavor. Pepper Jack offers a fun, spicy kick as well!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend these Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas enough—they’re hearty, easy to personalize, and truly crowd-friendly. If you’re looking to impress family or simply treat yourself to something cozy and satisfying, this recipe will not let you down. Give them a try and prepare for rave reviews at your table!
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Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 enchiladas
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Beef & Bean Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Filled with flavorful seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas and baked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Bean Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
For Assembly:
- 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch)
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Season the Filling: Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Mix in refried beans and half of the enchilada sauce.
- Fill the Tortillas: Spoon beef and bean mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, roll tightly, and place in a baking dish.
- Bake: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- Enchiladas can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- For extra flavor, add chopped green chilies or jalapeños to the filling.
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