If you are looking for something easy for dinner tonight, these Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas (Skillet-to-Oven Style) are it. This recipe brings all the comfort of traditional enchiladas without the extra fuss of rolling each one. You can make it all in one skillet, then slide it right into the oven to melt into bubbly, golden perfection. Perfect for busy nights or when you just need a cozy, homemade easy dinner recipe that everyone will actually eat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It is a quick ground meat recipe that turns simple ingredients into something amazing.
- All made in one skillet, making cleanup simple and fast.
- The melted cheese, saucy beef, and warm tortillas make a good beef dinner recipe for any night.
- Budget-friendly ingredients make it one of my favorite easy dinners on a budget for families.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Ground beef : the star of this weeknight dinner with ground beef, rich and hearty.
- Taco seasoning : adds that bold, familiar flavor without extra effort.
- Tomato sauce : helps create the saucy base that ties everything together.
- Flour tortillas : soft and perfect for layering right in the skillet.
- Shredded cheese : the gooey layer that makes these enchiladas irresistibly cheesy.
- Onion and garlic : add depth and aroma to the dish.
- Optional toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for color and freshness.
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Warm a large oven-safe skillet on medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in chopped onion, garlic, and taco seasoning. Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in tomato sauce and stir to coat the beef evenly. Let it simmer for 3 minutes.
- Layer half of the tortillas on top of the beef, then add half of the cheese.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas, sauce, and cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite toppings.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter twist on this quick ground beef meal.
- Add black beans, corn, or diced peppers to stretch the meal for an easy dinner recipe for a family of 4.
- If you like extra spice, top with sliced jalapeños before baking.
- Serve with a side of salad or a creamy white bean dish for a heartier meal.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the skillet through step 6, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for a stress-free dinner night.
Serving and Storage
These enchiladas are best served warm with sour cream, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Pair with rice, beans, or a light salad for a complete meal that feels special but takes very little time.
To store leftovers, cover the skillet tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick weeknight lunch.
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas (Skillet-to-Oven Style)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Warm a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and taco seasoning. Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in tomato sauce and stir to coat beef evenly. Let it simmer for 3 minutes.
- Layer half the tortillas on top of the beef, then sprinkle with half the cheese.
- Repeat layering with remaining tortillas and cheese.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro if desired.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in the skillet, cover with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it into the oven and dinner will be ready in minutes. It is one of my favorite quick ground beef meals for easy dinners.
What cheese works best for enchiladas?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt beautifully. Use what you have on hand. The key is to shred it yourself if you can, since pre-shredded cheese can be a little dry and does not melt as smoothly.
Can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?
Definitely. You can add beans, rice, or extra vegetables to stretch the beef further. It is one of those easy dinners on a budget that still feels cozy and filling without extra cost.
How do I make it less spicy for kids?
Use mild taco seasoning and skip the jalapeños. You can even serve the sauce and spice on the side so everyone can build their own version. This makes it a great easy dinner recipe for family of 4 nights when everyone has different tastes.
What should I serve with these enchiladas?
Try a fresh green salad or something comforting like easy Portuguese chicken for a mix of flavors. If you want something special for the weekend, orange roasted chicken also pairs beautifully.
Final Thoughts from Ama
Some recipes are made for busy nights, and this skillet-to-oven enchilada dish is one of them. It is warm, cheesy, and ready in less time than it takes to decide what to order out. Remember, food does not have to be fancy to make your table feel full. Whether you serve it on a Tuesday or at the end of a long week, this easy meal is a reminder that simple dinners can still feel special.