As the sun sets and the evening rush begins, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I turn to my trusty air fryer and whip up these Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas. With their crispy, golden edges and savory filling, they’re not just a meal—they’re a comforting hug on a plate. The delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melty cheese wrapped in soft tortillas creates a dinner that my whole family adores.
What’s even better? This dish is incredibly customizable. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have in your pantry, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights. All it takes is a bit of prep time and under 20 minutes of cooking to transform ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe that will bring smiles to your table? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas
Quick Preparation: These enchiladas come together in no time, with minimal hands-on cooking required.
Family-Friendly: A dish loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for any mealtime.
Crispy Delight: Achieve that wonderfully crispy texture thanks to the air fryer, delivering restaurant-quality results at home.
Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap proteins or add extra veggies based on your family’s preferences or what’s on hand.
Stress-Free Cooking: Ideal for hectic weeknights, these enchiladas can be prepped ahead or made fresh in just 20 minutes.
Dive deeper into similar family favorites with our easy weeknight dinner recipes.
Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Beef – Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 for juiciness; leaner cuts may require added oil during cooking.
- Taco Seasoning – Adds a robust flavor profile; consider using homemade seasoning as a healthier alternative.
- Black Beans – Boosts fiber and protein content; can substitute with pinto beans.
- Diced Tomatoes – Offers moisture and flavor; use fresh tomatoes if preferred.
- Green Chilies – Adds mild heat and depth; can be substituted with jalapeños for more spice.
- Cumin – Enhances the savory notes; optional, but recommended for a richer taste.
For the Enchiladas
- Flour Tortillas (6-inch) – Acts as the wrapper; can substitute with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Red Enchilada Sauce – Provides moisture and flavor; adjust sauce quantity to prevent sogginess.
- Mexican Cheese Blend – Offers a melty topping; swap for cheddar or Monterey Jack if desired.
For Garnishing
- Cilantro – Freshens the dish and adds color; optional for garnish.
- Sour Cream – Complements the enchiladas with creaminess; can replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Prepare to create these flavorful Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas that the whole family will love!
How to Make Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas
Cook Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown 1 lb of ground beef for 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink, ensuring you drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.
Mix Filling: Stir in taco seasoning and cumin, along with black beans, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Prepare Tortillas: Warm the tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave to soften them. This step makes them easier to roll without tearing.
Assemble Enchiladas: Place 3-4 tablespoons of the filling in each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
Add Sauce/Cheese: Drizzle red enchilada sauce over the tortillas, being careful not to over-soak them, then sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top for that delicious melty finish.
Cook: Air fry at 360°F for 5 minutes. Listen for the cheer of sizzles as the cheese melts and the edges start to bubble, signaling that they are ready.
Serve: Allow the enchiladas to cool for 1-2 minutes. Top them with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream before serving warm to your eager family.
Optional: Garnish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas
Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Vegetarian Filling: Replace ground beef with black beans or a mix of sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a delicious meat-free option.
You can even try adding quinoa for extra protein, making these enchiladas not just tasty but also packed with nutrients.Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, use diced jalapeños or a spicier chili powder in your filling. You can even swap the green chilies for serrano peppers to turn up the heat.
The extra spice adds a delightful kick, perfect for those evenings when you want bold flavors on your plate.Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy twist or a sharp cheddar for a flavorful change.
The cheese is essential for that gooey texture, and swapping it can create new taste sensations with every bite.Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, making this dish gluten-free while keeping all the yummy flavors intact.
Corn tortillas lend a lovely flavor, and their sturdiness holds up well against the hearty filling.Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like oregano or smoked paprika to your filling for an aromatic twist.
These herbs elevate the flavors and give your enchiladas a personal touch that is uniquely yours.Creamy Alternative: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier topping that still provides creaminess.
This option not only lightens it up but also adds a nice tang that complements the spices perfectly.Extra Crispy: Brush the tortillas lightly with oil before air frying for an even crispier texture.
That bit of oil helps them achieve a golden hue and crispness you’ll love, making them feel just like they came from a restaurant.Sweet Addition: Toss in sweet corn kernels into the filling for a touch of sweetness paired beautifully with the savory beef.
The sweetness of corn contrasts nicely with the spices, creating a delightful balance that keeps your taste buds happy.
What to Serve with Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas?
Looking to create a delightful meal that perfectly complements your crispy enchiladas? Let’s explore some fantastic sides that not only enhance the flavors but also bring joy to the table.
Spanish Rice: This dish offers a comforting base with its flavorful, tomato-infused grains, making it the perfect serving companion. The lightness of the rice balances the rich filling, ensuring a satisfying meal.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans add a hearty protein boost while beautifully complementing the flavors of the enchiladas. They also provide a deliciously rich texture.
Fresh Tomato Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a zesty salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The freshness cuts through the richness of the enchiladas, adding a refreshing crunch.
Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds a luxurious element to your meal, enhancing the flavors with its richness and cooling effect. It’s a family favorite that ties everything together beautifully.
Corn Salad: A sweet and crunchy corn salad with lime dressing is a delightful contrast to the warmth of the enchiladas. It adds a seasonal pop of color and flavor.
Chips and Salsa: Kick off your meal with some crispy tortilla chips served alongside a spicy salsa. It’s a great way to engage everyone while waiting for the enchiladas to cool down.
Margaritas: Consider serving a refreshing margarita to elevate your dinner experience. The citrusy flavors pair wonderfully with the savory notes of the enchiladas and enhance the overall dining experience.
Churros: For dessert, finish off with warm, cinnamon-sugar-dusted churros. Their sweetness provides a delectable contrast to the savory dishes and is always a hit with the family.
With these delicious pairings, your Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas will shine as the star of a full and satisfying meal. Enjoy every moment spent around the table!
Expert Tips for Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas
Warm Tortillas: Warm your tortillas before filling to make them pliable and avoid tearing while rolling them up.
Avoid Sogginess: Use just enough red enchilada sauce to coat the tortillas; excess moisture can lead to soggy enchiladas.
Cook in Batches: If you’re making a larger batch, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Cheese Timing: Add cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. This helps achieve a melty texture without risking burning.
Custom Flavoring: Feel free to switch up the protein or veggies in your filling for unique twists on these Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas.
Storage Tips for Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas
Refrigerate: Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious for your next meal!
Freeze: Wrap the enchiladas tightly in foil or place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months, allowing for easy reheating later, whether cooked or uncooked.
Reheat: Air fry leftover enchiladas at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Microwaving is quicker but may sacrifice that lovely crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and seasonings) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, drizzle just enough enchilada sauce over the tortillas to avoid sogginess. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time for best results. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, hassle-free dinners while saving valuable time during busy weeknights!
Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for enchiladas?
I recommend using ground beef that is 80/20 or 85/15 for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner cuts may require a bit of added oil during cooking to prevent drying out, ensuring a delicious filling.
How long can I store leftover enchiladas in the refrigerator?
Store any leftover Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to best preserve their flavor and texture.
Can I freeze enchiladas, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze the enchiladas either before or after cooking. Wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They will remain good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply air fry from frozen at 350°F for 7-10 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my enchiladas come out soggy?
Sogginess can happen if there’s too much sauce used or if the tortillas are overly soaked. To avoid this, use just enough red enchilada sauce to coat; excess moisture can lead to a less desirable texture. If it happens, try air frying them a bit longer to help them crisp up.
Can I make these enchiladas allergy-friendly?
Definitely! To suit various dietary needs, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option. You can also substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or black beans for a vegetarian twist. Additionally, feel free to skip the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute to accommodate lactose intolerance.
How can I enhance the flavor of my beef filling?
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic while browning the ground beef. You could also mix in spices like paprika or chili powder for added depth. Experimenting with different protein options or throwing in extra veggies, such as bell peppers or corn, can really personalize your dish!
Delicious Simple Air Fryer Beef Enchiladas in Just Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown 1 lb of ground beef for 5-7 minutes until it's no longer pink, ensuring you drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.
- Mix Filling: Stir in taco seasoning and cumin, along with black beans, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Prepare Tortillas: Warm the tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave to soften them. This step makes them easier to roll without tearing.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Place 3-4 tablespoons of the filling in each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Add Sauce/Cheese: Drizzle red enchilada sauce over the tortillas, being careful not to over-soak them, then sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top for that delicious melty finish.
- Cook: Air fry at 360°F for 5 minutes. Listen for the cheer of sizzles as the cheese melts and the edges start to bubble, signaling that they are ready.
- Serve: Allow the enchiladas to cool for 1-2 minutes. Top them with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream before serving warm to your eager family.