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Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor? This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is the perfect solution! It’s easy to make, gluten-free, and full of delicious ingredients that will satisfy your cravings.
I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover ground beef. I wanted something different from the usual tacos or spaghetti, and this Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet was just the ticket. It’s become a family favorite, and I’m sure it will be a hit in your household too!
Get ready to cook up a storm with this amazing Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet recipe!
What to Expect
- Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Before You Begin
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| 1 lb ground beef |
| ½ onion, diced |
| 3 cloves garlic, minced |
| ¾ tsp salt |
| ¼ tsp black pepper, omit for AIP |
| 1 tsp oregano |
| 1 tsp cumin, omit for AIP |
| 2 cups butternut squash, cubed (see notes) |
| 1 ½ cup enchilada sauce, use this for paleo, this for AIP (Safe Brands: Hatch, Las Palmas (usually), Siete, or Old El Paso (check label).) |
| 4 almond flour tortillas, sliced into strips (Buy standard Yellow or White Corn Tortillas. Check the ingredient list; if you see “Wheat Flour,” put it back.) |
| ¼ cup dairy-free cheese, shredded (optional) |
| 2 tbsp dairy-free sour cream |
| 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped |
| 1 tbsp green onion, chopped |
| 1 avocado, sliced |
| Fresh lime wedges to serve |
Step-by-Step Guide
- Using a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef, onion, garlic, and seasonings. Crumble the ground beef until fully cooked, draining some of the excess fat, leaving about 2 tbsp of fat in the pan. Set aside.
- Add the butternut squash to the pan and saute until soft.
- Add the beef back to the pan.
- Stir in the enchilada sauce and stir to coat the beef. Bring to a low simmer.
- Add the tortillas and gently stir to coat in the sauce, allowing to soften for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cheese if desired and allow to melt.
- Remove from the heat.
- Top with cilantro, green onion, and serve with dairy-free sour cream, avocado, and fresh lime wedges.
notes:
Corn tortillas dissolve quickly in liquid. Do not simmer the tortillas in the sauce for 20 minutes, or you will have “Enchilada Mush.”
Technique: Stir the tortilla strips in at the very end, just 2–3 minutes before serving, so they soften but keep their texture.
Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet: Gluten-Free Dinner
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Gluten-Free Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet creates all the cheesy, saucy flavors of traditional enchiladas without the hassle of rolling them up. It’s a quick, one-pan weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Made with corn tortillas and savory ground beef, it is naturally wheat-free and totally satisfying.
Ingredients
— The Meat Base —
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
— The Sauce & Body —
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (CRITICAL: Check label for ‘gluten-free’, many brands use wheat flour as thickener)
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (mild or hot)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
6–8 corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips (ensure 100% corn)
— The Toppings —
1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Diced avocado or sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion.
2. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and salt. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the gluten-free red enchilada sauce and the diced green chiles. Stir to combine.
5. Add the drained black beans and corn. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the corn tortilla strips. Fold them gently into the sauce so they are coated and submerged. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and absorb the flavor.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from heat. Garnish immediately with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Gluten Warning (Sauce): Red enchilada sauce is the #1 source of hidden gluten in Mexican cooking. Major brands often use wheat flour. Look for brands like ‘Siete’, ‘Hatch’ (certified GF versions), or ‘Las Palmas’ (check label carefully).
Corn Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are 100% corn. Some ‘soft’ taco tortillas are a blend of corn and wheat flour.
Texture Tip: Don’t overcook the tortilla strips or they will disintegrate. You want them soft but still holding some shape.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute to make this vegetarian.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 950
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 42
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 32
- Cholesterol: 85
Pointers for Perfection & How to Store
If you’re in a rush, I recommend using frozen and then defrosted butternut squash as it cooks faster, but fresh will also work! For more delicious recipes, check out this Gluten Free Hamburger Helper Recipe 2.
Your Burning Questions Answered!
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, this Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the skillet or microwave before serving.
Dig In & Enjoy!
This Ground Beef Enchilada Skillet is a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. For more delicious ideas, follow me on My Pinterest.