Few dishes deliver the same level of comfort food satisfaction as a tray of easy beef enchiladas smothered in red enchilada sauce. With their savory filling, soft tortillas, and rich sauce, enchiladas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and have become a beloved go-to meal for families across the world. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this dish provides a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and ease.

This recipe focuses on making homemade red enchilada sauce—a key component that elevates the entire dish. Unlike store-bought versions that can be overly salty or one-dimensional, a homemade sauce allows you to layer spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano to build deep, authentic flavor. If you’re unfamiliar with how enchiladas became so widespread in the culinary world, their origins are deeply tied to traditional Mexican cuisine, where corn tortillas were often dipped in chili sauces and filled with meats or vegetables.

Not only is this recipe a comfort classic, it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can prepare the filling in advance, use your favorite blend of cheeses, or substitute ground beef with alternatives like shredded chicken or black beans. Ground beef, the base of our enchilada filling, is one of the most popular and versatile proteins in home cooking, lending itself well to bold seasonings and hearty textures. Want to make the dish feel more complete? Serve it alongside Mexican rice and refried beans, or explore these comfort food ideas for sides that complement the rich flavors.

By the end of this guide, you’ll not only have a satisfying dinner on the table, but you’ll also gain insight into what makes these easy beef enchiladas a go-to comfort meal, especially when paired with the best red enchilada sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these easy beef enchiladas, especially when they’re topped with a rich, homemade red enchilada sauce. This dish checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and versatility, making it a must-have in your weekly rotation.

Quick and beginner-friendly – This recipe is perfect for weeknights. With a short prep time and simple steps, even beginner cooks can master it.
Family-approved – The combination of ground beef, melted cheese, and tangy red sauce appeals to both kids and adults. Customize the spice level to suit everyone’s palate.

Great for meal prep – These enchiladas reheat beautifully, making them ideal for leftovers or make-ahead dinners. Browse more make-ahead dinners for weekday inspiration.
Pantry staple ingredients – You likely already have many of the ingredients like flour, oil, and spices at home. If you’re missing anything, they’re affordable and easy to find.
Customizable – Whether you use flour or corn tortillas, swap in ground turkey or black beans, or try a spicy cheese blend like Monterey Jack, this recipe adapts to your needs.

This dish also aligns well with those looking for hearty, comfort food classics. For more dishes that bring warmth and satisfaction, explore additional comfort food recipes that use bold spices and easy preparation methods. With its crowd-pleasing qualities and simple steps, it’s no wonder these beef enchiladas with red sauce are a top pick for home cooks everywhere.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creating the perfect easy beef enchiladas begins with understanding each component that contributes to its bold, satisfying flavor. From the seasoned meat filling to the rich, homemade red enchilada sauce, every ingredient plays a key role in building depth and texture. Below is a breakdown of all elements, along with a few customization tips to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

For the Beef Filling

Ground Beef (1 lb)
Choose 80/20 ground beef for flavor, or leaner varieties for a healthier option. Learn more about types of ground beef and how they differ in fat content and cooking results.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
Used to sauté the onions and garlic and to help the beef brown evenly.

Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped)
Adds aromatic sweetness that balances the richness of the beef.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Delivers a pungent, savory kick that deepens the overall flavor.
Ground Cumin (1/2 tsp)
A staple spice in Mexican dishes, cumin offers a warm, earthy profile that anchors the seasoning.

Chili Powder (1/2 tsp)
Adds a mild heat and complex spice blend. Explore more about chili powder and how it varies by region.
Smoked Paprika (1/4 tsp)
Brings subtle smokiness and color. Regular paprika can be used if smoked isn’t available.
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Essential for balancing and enhancing all other ingredients.

Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Offers a sharp, creamy melt—classic in Tex-Mex style enchiladas.
Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Mild and buttery, it complements the cheddar. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a rich, smooth finish.

For the Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce

Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
Base for the roux and helps the spices bloom in the pan.

All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp)
Thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and velvety texture.
Chili Powder (1/4 cup)
The main flavor base of the sauce, delivering both heat and complexity.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (1/2 tsp each)
Add depth without overpowering fresh flavors.

Ground Cumin (1/4 tsp)
Repeated here for continuity in flavor with the beef.
Dried Oregano (1/4 tsp)
Offers herbaceous notes and enhances the sauce’s authenticity.
Chicken or Beef Broth (2 cups)
Use chicken broth for a lighter taste or beef broth for deeper flavor. This is the liquid that binds the sauce.

Salt (to taste)
Season carefully at the end after flavors have developed.

For a full guide on sauces that can elevate your cooking, take a look at these homemade sauce ideas to inspire future recipes.

For Assembling the Enchiladas

Small Flour or Corn Tortillas (8)
Both work well; corn tortillas are traditional, while flour tortillas tend to be more pliable. Learn more about the differences between tortillas and which is best for baking.
Shredded Cheese (1/2 cup, for topping)
A final layer of cheese ensures a bubbly, golden finish once baked.
Cilantro or Green Onions (chopped, optional garnish)
Brightens the dish with fresh color and flavor just before serving.

When all of these ingredients come together, the result is a satisfying, hearty dish that feels both familiar and elevated. If you’re preparing multiple meals ahead of time, explore other freezer-friendly meals that allow for efficient planning using similar ingredients.

How to Make Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce (Step-by-Step)

Make the Beef Filling

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it softens. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat.

Season the meat with 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly coat the meat with spices, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Monterey Jack for a creamy, seasoned filling that’s packed with flavor. The combination of these cheeses delivers that stretchy, melty texture essential in Tex-Mex recipes.

Make the Red Enchilada Sauce

In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute until slightly golden. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano. This spice blend, rooted in Mexican cuisine, builds a rich and aromatic base.

Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken or beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens, then season with salt to taste. Homemade sauce offers far more depth than store-bought and is easy to tweak for heat or consistency. If you’re interested in trying different sauce styles, these homemade sauce ideas are great starting points.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Warm 8 small flour or corn tortillas to make them pliable. This step helps prevent tearing and makes rolling easier. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish. Once all enchiladas are arranged, pour the remaining sauce over the top, making sure to coat every tortilla. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of additional shredded cheese over the top for a bubbly, golden finish.

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling. Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to firm up slightly.

How to Serve These Enchiladas

These easy beef enchiladas are best served hot, directly from the oven. Add a finishing touch with freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for freshness and color.

Pair them with:

Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice
Refried beans or black beans
A crisp green salad for balance
Sour cream, diced avocado, or guacamole on the side

If you’re planning a themed dinner night, browse more comfort food pairings to round out your menu with other satisfying dishes.

Tips for the Best Enchiladas

Getting enchiladas just right takes a few simple techniques. Follow these pro tips for restaurant-quality results at home:

Lightly fry the tortillas before filling them to create a barrier that prevents sogginess.
Warm tortillas before rolling to avoid cracking—especially important with corn tortillas.
Don’t overfill the tortillas, which can lead to breakage or uneven baking.

Let them rest after baking so the sauce sets slightly and the tortillas stay intact.
Use fresh spices—spices lose potency over time, so for bold flavor, ensure your chili powder and cumin are no more than six months old.

For more smart kitchen strategies, check out make-ahead dinner ideas that help streamline your weeknight cooking.

Recipe Variations

This beef enchilada recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary restrictions:

Protein Swaps: Try shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Vegetarian Version: Use a mix of black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and zucchini as the filling.
Cheese Variations: Swap in Pepper Jack for extra heat or try queso fresco for a crumbly texture.

Add Heat: Stir in chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo for a spicy kick.
Tex-Mex Style: Add black olives, green chiles, or a spoonful of salsa verde on top before baking.

Looking for more ideas? Discover freezer meal options that can be prepped ahead and enjoyed later.

Make-Ahead, Freezer, and Storage Tips

These enchiladas are perfect for batch cooking and saving for later. Here’s how to store them for optimal freshness and flavor:

Make-Ahead Tips:

Prepare the filling and sauce a day in advance.
Assemble the enchiladas, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Freezing Instructions:

Assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes, or thaw in the fridge overnight before baking normally.

Storing Leftovers:

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave for quick meals or in the oven for the best texture.

Looking for more time-saving recipes? Try these freezer-friendly dinners that work great for family meals or solo portions.

Nutritional Overview

Each serving of these beef enchiladas with red sauce offers a satisfying balance of macronutrients:

Calories: ~400–500 per enchilada, depending on tortilla and cheese types

Protein: 20–25g per serving from ground beef and cheese
Carbs: Mostly from tortillas and sauce base
Fats: From beef, cheese, and oil

To lighten the dish:

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey
Reduce cheese or use low-fat cheese options
Choose whole wheat or low-carb tortillas
Opt for low-sodium broth and adjust added salt

Looking to explore more about the types of tortillas and their nutritional differences? Here’s a breakdown from Wikipedia for flour vs. corn options.

FAQs

What’s the best cheese for beef enchiladas?
A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack offers the best melt and flavor. Cheddar gives a sharp bite, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess.

Can I use store-bought red enchilada sauce?
Yes, but the flavor won’t be as deep or customizable. Making your own allows you to control spice and sodium levels.

How do I make enchiladas less soggy?
Lightly fry or warm tortillas before assembling, and avoid overfilling them with sauce inside. Pour sauce only on top to keep tortillas intact.

Should I cover enchiladas when baking?
No, bake uncovered to allow the cheese to brown and the sauce to bubble. This gives a better texture and appearance.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas are traditional. Just warm them first to prevent cracking. For more info, see the tortilla comparison page.

Are beef enchiladas spicy?
Not inherently. The heat depends on the chili powder and other spices you use. Adjust based on taste.

Can I freeze beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Absolutely. Freeze assembled and unbaked enchiladas for best results. Thaw overnight or bake straight from frozen.

Easy Beef Enchiladas with Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce