Name: 15 Minute Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce; 1/2 cup salsa; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend); 6 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing); Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños

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This 15 Minute Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole is the ultimate solution for a fast, hearty dinner. Made with seasoned ground beef, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and melty cheese, it’s all cooked in one skillet and ready in just a quarter of an hour. It has all the comfort of classic enchiladas with none of the fuss.

15 Minute Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

Ingredients

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

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce

½ cup salsa

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)

6 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)

Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, I add olive oil (if I’m using it), then cook the ground beef until it’s browned, about 5 minutes.

I stir in the diced onion and garlic and cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is softened and fragrant.

I mix in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, combining well.

Then I reduce the heat to low and pour in the enchilada sauce and salsa, stirring until it’s all well blended.

I fold in the tortilla pieces gently, making sure they get fully coated and start to soften.

I sprinkle cheese evenly across the top.

I cover the skillet and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

I take it off the heat and serve immediately with my favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Total time: 15 minutes

Each serving contains approximately 390 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten things up.

If I want more heat, I add diced green chiles or extra chili powder.

I’ve used black beans or corn in the mix for added texture and nutrition.

Corn tortillas give it a more traditional enchilada flavor, while flour tortillas stay softer.

For a vegetarian version, I skip the meat and double up on beans and veggies.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. I’ve also reheated it on the stove over low heat with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

I like to add chopped jalapeños, hot salsa, or a pinch of cayenne to kick up the heat.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely. I shred the chicken and stir it in after the onions and garlic are cooked—super easy and just as delicious.

Can I freeze this casserole?

I usually don’t recommend freezing this one since the tortillas can get soggy, but it’s possible. If I do freeze it, I reheat it in the oven for better texture.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I prefer a Mexican blend for flavor and meltability, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack all work well.

Do I have to cut the tortillas?

Cutting them helps them mix better into the skillet, but I’ve torn them by hand in a pinch—it works just fine.

Conclusion

This 15 Minute Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole is my go-to when I need something quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s got everything I love about enchiladas without the hassle, and it's easy to adapt to whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m feeding family or just want an easy dinner for myself, this dish always hits the spot.

Recipe:

15 Minute Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

This 15 Minute Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole is a quick and comforting one-skillet meal made with seasoned beef, tortillas, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. It delivers all the flavor of traditional enchiladas with none of the fuss.

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil if using, and cook the ground beef until browned, about 5 minutes.
Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
Reduce heat to low and pour in the enchilada sauce and salsa, stirring until well blended.
Fold in the tortilla pieces gently, making sure they are fully coated and begin to soften.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
Cover the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from heat and serve immediately with desired toppings.