Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas – The Best One-Pan Dinner Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup sour cream; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Posted on July 25, 2025

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The smell of savory beef mingling with zesty enchilada sauce hits you as you walk into the kitchen, pulling you in like a warm hug. Honestly, there’s something about a skillet meal that just makes life easier and more delicious. I first stumbled upon this Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas recipe during a busy week when I needed quick, hearty comfort food that didn’t require endless dishes. After that, it quickly became a staple in my home. You know, with a busy family, finding a one-pan dinner that pleases everyone isn’t easy, but this recipe has truly become a lifesaver!

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a blend of flavors and textures that creates a delightful experience with every bite. Picture this: soft corn tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, enveloped in a rich, spicy sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Yum! Plus, it’s packed with protein and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, these Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a win. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe book!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s talk about why these Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas are simply the best. First off, they’re quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights. You’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver for busy families.

Quick & Easy: Whip this up in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings.
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering, these enchiladas fit right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t love cheesy, beefy enchiladas!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds.

What makes this recipe stand out is not just its ease but the special flair I’ve added over the years. I like to spice up the beef with a mix of chili powder, cumin, and garlic, which really amps up the flavor! Plus, using a skillet means you get to cook everything in one place, making cleanup a breeze. This is comfort food reimagined—satisfying yet simple, and the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes after the first bite.

Honestly, if you’re looking for a way to impress your family without breaking a sweat, these enchiladas are the answer. You’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create that bold flavor without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, making it easy to throw together any night of the week.

1 pound (450g) ground beef, (use lean for a healthier option)
1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic kick)
1 tablespoon chili powder, (adjust for spice level)
1 teaspoon cumin, (adds warmth and earthiness)
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce, (store-bought or homemade)
8 corn tortillas, (or flour if you prefer)
1 cup (100g) shredded cheese, (cheddar or Mexican blend work well)
1 cup (240ml) beef broth, (to keep everything moist)
1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream, (optional for serving)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional, but adds a lovely touch)

Feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even black beans for a vegetarian version. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility!

Equipment Needed

You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to make this dish a reality:

Large skillet or frying pan: This will be your one-pan wonder!
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.
Measuring cups and spoons: To get your ingredients just right.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping your onion and garlic.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven works just as well. And if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, check out your local kitchen supply store for affordable cookware!

Preparation Method

Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up with a spatula while cooking.
Add onion and garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin. Stir well to coat the beef and onion mixture.
Pour in the enchilada sauce: Add the entire can of enchilada sauce and beef broth to the skillet. Mix to combine.
Prepare the tortillas: While the sauce is simmering, wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds to soften them.
Fill the tortillas: Take each tortilla and fill it with the beef mixture. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in the skillet.
Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the rolled enchiladas.
Cover and cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let cook for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream if desired!

Keep an eye on the cheese; you want it to be perfectly melted but not overcooked. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped jalapeños or olives for extra flavor!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips I’ve learned to make this recipe even better:

Don’t rush the browning: Make sure your beef gets a nice brown color; it adds depth to the flavor.
Use fresh spices: If your spices have been sitting in the cupboard for ages, consider replacing them. Fresh spices can make a significant difference.
Layer your flavors: If you want an extra kick, add some diced green chilies to the beef mixture for more heat.
Avoid soggy tortillas: Make sure to use slightly warmed tortillas to prevent them from falling apart.
Feel free to multitask: While the beef is browning, prep your toppings or make a quick side salad to serve alongside!

These tips come from years of trial and error (and more than a few kitchen disasters), so trust me—they’ll help you nail this recipe!

Variations & Adaptations

If you want to mix things up, here are some tasty variations to try:

Vegetarian Enchiladas: Swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils. Add sautéed bell peppers and zucchini for extra veggies!
Low-Carb Version: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a delicious and healthy twist.
Spicy Chicken Enchiladas: Replace the beef with shredded rotisserie chicken and add diced jalapeños for some heat.

Feel free to adjust the spice levels or include your favorite toppings, like avocado or sliced radishes. The possibilities are endless!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These enchiladas are best served warm, straight from the skillet. They pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. Top with extra cheese, sour cream, or guacamole for a delightful finishing touch!

As for storage, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. The flavors actually develop even more, making them just as tasty the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of these Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas is packed with protein, thanks to the ground beef and cheese. They’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals from the onions and spices. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g

This recipe is a great option for those looking for a hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Just be mindful of any allergens, especially if you’re using cheese or sour cream.

Conclusion

In summary, these Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas are not just delicious; they’re a practical solution for busy nights. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, you’ll find this dish is well worth making. Customize it based on your family’s preferences, and watch it become a dinner-time favorite. I love how this recipe brings everyone together around the table, talking and laughing over a shared meal.

If you try these enchiladas, please let me know what you think! I’d love to hear your variations and ideas in the comments. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for a day before cooking.
What can I serve with enchiladas? They pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Just make sure they’re well-sealed in an airtight container.
How can I make these enchiladas spicier? Add diced jalapeños or use a spicier enchilada sauce!
Are these enchiladas gluten-free? Use corn tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

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Easy Beef Skillet Enchiladas recipe