A Family-Friendly Dinner with Just Five Ingredients
Weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated. These 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas, adapted from Southern Bite, are proof that you can create a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and a short prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy families who still want to enjoy a comforting homemade dinner.
Why You’ll Love These Beef Enchiladas
- Only five ingredients: Pantry staples come together for a satisfying meal.
- Family favorite: Cheesy, beefy, and kid-approved.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble earlier in the day and bake when ready.
- Flexible: Swap flour tortillas for corn to make it more traditional.
- Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully for next-day lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 8 (8-inch) tortillas (flour or corn)
- 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Four Cheese Mexican blend (about 2 cups)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Return to medium-low heat, stir in salsa, and cook until heated through. Remove from heat.
- Pour half of the enchilada sauce into the prepared baking dish.
- Warm tortillas as directed on the package. Place ¼ cup of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla, top with 1 heaping tablespoon of cheese, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips for Making Beef Enchiladas Even Better
- Add beans or veggies: Black beans, corn, or sautéed peppers make a great addition.
- Spice it up: Use medium or hot salsa for extra kick.
- Top before serving: Garnish with sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.
- Freeze ahead: Assemble enchiladas, cover tightly, and freeze before baking.
Why These Enchiladas Belong in Your Weekly Rotation
These enchiladas are quick, easy, and flavorful—everything you need in a family dinner. With just five ingredients, you can get a warm, cheesy meal on the table without stress. Recipes like this remind us that simplicity in the kitchen can be just as delicious as complicated dishes.
Be sure to check back for more family-friendly, simple dinner ideas that make weeknights easier and tastier!