Crockpot Beef Enchiladas with Cheese is a comforting, hearty, and flavor-packed dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Using a slow cooker simplifies the process while infusing the beef and sauce with rich, deep flavors.

Tender ground beef is combined with aromatic spices, rolled into soft tortillas, and smothered with a savory enchilada sauce and melted cheese. This dish is a classic Mexican-inspired comfort food that’s easy to assemble, requires minimal hands-on cooking, and delivers a satisfying meal for the whole family. Served with rice, beans, or a fresh salad, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines convenience with incredible flavor. Cooking in a crockpot allows the beef to become tender and perfectly seasoned while the enchilada sauce melds into the meat. The melted cheese on top adds richness, making each bite indulgent yet easy to prepare.

It’s a one-dish meal that works well for busy days, family dinners, or feeding a crowd. The slow-cooked depth of flavor elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal without the stress or fuss.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a flavorful and easy way to enjoy classic enchiladas without standing over the stove or oven. The slow cooker intensifies the flavors of the beef and spices, resulting in a tender, juicy filling that pairs perfectly with tortillas and cheese.

It’s versatile, allowing you to adjust spice levels or add vegetables. This recipe delivers a comforting, satisfying meal with minimal effort, making it ideal for anyone looking for hearty, delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine at home.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
Total Time: 4–5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican / Slow Cooker

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• ½ cup black beans (optional)

For Assembling Enchiladas

• 8–10 large flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Beef Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onions and garlic until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Drain excess fat and stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, diced tomatoes, and black beans if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined.

Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Spread ½ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Place a few tablespoons of beef filling in the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with a little cheese, and roll tightly.
3. Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the crockpot.
4. Pour remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle remaining cheese.

Cook in Crockpot

1. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until heated through and cheese is melted.

Serve

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice, beans, or a side salad.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Beef
Brown ground beef with onions and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes, and black beans.

Step 3: Prepare Crockpot
Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 4: Fill Tortillas
Place beef filling and some cheese in tortillas, roll, and arrange seam-side down in the crockpot.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour remaining enchilada sauce over tortillas and sprinkle remaining cheese.

Step 6: Slow Cook
Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Add fresh cilantro and serve with sides like rice or beans.

How to Serve

Serve enchiladas warm directly from the crockpot with optional sides such as Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh green salad. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Slightly warm tortillas before rolling to prevent tearing.
• Use homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce depending on convenience.
• Layer cheese inside and on top for maximum cheesy flavor.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the beef filling for added nutrition.
• Avoid overfilling tortillas to prevent spilling in the crockpot.

Variations

• Chicken Version: Substitute cooked shredded chicken for ground beef.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for heat.
• Vegetarian: Use beans, corn, and diced vegetables in place of beef.
• Cheese Variations: Mix cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavors.
• Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or serve filling over cauliflower rice.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual enchiladas in airtight containers or foil for up to 2 months. Reheat in microwave or oven until heated through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Skillet for browning beef
• Spoon and spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I assemble enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in the crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day as directed.

Q2: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, but warm them first to prevent tearing.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use certified gluten-free tortillas and check enchilada sauce for gluten-free labeling.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches.

Q5: How do I prevent the tortillas from sticking?
Lightly brush tortillas with oil or warm them before rolling. Also, spreading sauce on the bottom of the crockpot helps.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Enchiladas with Cheese is a convenient, hearty, and flavor-packed meal that brings the comfort of Mexican cuisine to your home with minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the beef, sauce, and spices to meld beautifully while delivering tender, cheesy, and satisfying enchiladas. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete, delicious meal.