Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Beef Skillet Enchiladas recipe because it simplifies traditional enchiladas into a hearty skillet dish that requires no rolling or stuffing. It’s loaded with protein, veggies, and rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melty cheese for ultimate comfort food satisfaction. Plus, it’s easily customizable and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 3 green onions (white/light green parts), chopped
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend), divided
• 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into wedges
• Green onions (dark green parts), sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Diced tomatoes (for garnish)
• Diced avocado (for garnish)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon oil

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook Beef and Veggies: Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray, add oil, and swirl to coat. Add ground beef, bell pepper, zucchini, and white/light green parts of green onions. Break up the meat with a spatula and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.
3. Add Seasonings and Sauce: Turn off heat. Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and ½ cup shredded cheese until combined.
4. Add Tortillas: Gently fold in the tortilla wedges, ensuring they are coated with sauce and evenly dispersed through the mixture.
5. Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheese over the top. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove skillet from oven and garnish with sliced green onions (dark parts), chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Serve with sour cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey or shredded chicken for ground beef.
• Add Heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for spicier enchiladas.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit meat and add extra beans, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.
• Cheese Options: Use your favorite cheese blend or add queso fresco for authenticity.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, but corn tortillas provide a more authentic texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the skillet dish and refrigerate before baking.

How do I keep the tortillas from becoming soggy?

Coating tortillas well with sauce helps prevent sogginess; baking uncovered helps keep the top crispy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, ensure tortillas and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use canned enchilada sauce?

Absolutely, store-bought sauce works well for convenience.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, onions, or corn are great additions.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default; add more chili powder or hot sauce for heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and omit sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the fridge.

Conclusion

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a delicious, quick, and comforting meal that combines classic Mexican flavors with the ease of a one-pan dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, family meals, or when you want cheesy, satisfying comfort food without the fuss of rolling individual enchiladas.

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