Beef Enchiladas with Salsa Verde

Name: Beef Enchiladas with Salsa Verde
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup salsa verde; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Sour cream; Queso fresco, crumbled

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

When I crave a comforting dish that brings the heat, I turn to my Beef Enchiladas with Salsa Verde. The tender beef and tangy salsa verde create a mouthwatering combination that's hard to resist. Plus, the layers of melted cheese and fresh herbs elevate this recipe even further. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to impress friends at a gathering. Trust me, once you try this dish, you'll be making it over and over!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:25:27.933Z

I often find myself craving something hearty and flavorful, and these Beef Enchiladas with Salsa Verde never disappoint. The secret lies in simmering the beef with spices until it's tender and juicy, bringing out the rich flavors that meld beautifully with the tangy salsa. I particularly love how making the enchiladas from scratch allows me to customize every element, from the sauce to the toppings.

When preparing these enchiladas, I always recommend using fresh tortillas; they make a significant difference in texture. I also like to top mine with a generous helping of crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro right before serving. This extra step brings out the freshness and adds layers of flavor that complement the dish perfectly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory beef filling topped with vibrant salsa verde
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and cheeses
Perfect for sharing with family and friends on special occasions

The Importance of Letting the Filling Shine

One key to making the perfect beef enchiladas is allowing the flavors of the filling to develop fully. To achieve this, I recommend allowing the ground beef mixture to simmer gently after browning for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This not only melds the flavors but also ensures the beef is tender and juicy when engulfed in the enchiladas.

Another tip is to season the beef filling generously with salt and pepper to enhance the savory profile, which contrasts beautifully with the acidity of the salsa verde. Don’t be afraid to taste the mixture before rolling it into the tortillas; adjust the seasoning as needed to create a robust flavor that will stand out after baking.

Choosing Your Tortillas Wisely

Using high-quality corn tortillas is essential for beef enchiladas. I prefer tortillas made with whole corn, as they tend to have a sturdier texture and deliver a more authentic flavor. If you find that your tortillas are prone to cracking when rolled, consider lightly warming them in a microwave along with a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds, which helps maintain their pliability without losing moisture.

Additionally, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to select corn tortillas labeled as gluten-free. Some brands are thicker and sturdier than others, which can significantly impact how well they hold up during baking and enhance the overall texture of the enchiladas.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious Beef Enchiladas:

For the Enchiladas

1 pound ground beef
1 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup salsa verde
8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sour cream
Queso fresco, crumbled

Make sure to prepare the necessary garnishes before serving!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Beef Enchiladas:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.

Warm the Tortillas

In a separate pan, lightly warm the corn tortillas one at a time on medium heat until pliable, ensuring they don’t dry out.

Fill and Roll

Spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, top with a bit of salsa verde, and sprinkle with cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Bake

Pour the remaining salsa verde over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle additional cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Once done, let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can roast your ingredients beforehand. Experiment with different cheeses or add black beans for extra protein!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These beef enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. When ready to bake, simply remove the covering and pop them in the oven; you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time due to the colder temperature.

For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked enchiladas. Place the assembled dish in the freezer, and once they are solid, wrap them tightly with foil or plastic wrap. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) and allow an additional 15-20 minutes of cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

When serving beef enchiladas, I love to lay them out on a large platter and garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, which adds a burst of color and freshness. Accompany the dish with dollops of sour cream on the side for creaminess that pairs well with the spicy salsa verde. Feel free to also serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

If you want to elevate the meal even further, consider serving a side of Mexican-style rice and refried beans. The earthy flavors complement the heat from the enchiladas, creating a well-rounded meal. Additionally, sliced avocados or a simple mixed green salad can provide freshness and balance to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even beans for a vegetarian option work wonderfully!

→ Is salsa verde spicy?

It can be! If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a mild salsa verde or adjust the amount to your taste.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven before serving.