Delicious Ground Pork Enchiladas: An Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Recipe
This Pork Enchilada Recipe is your ultimate guide to creating a truly satisfying and memorable meal that your family will eagerly request again and again. It expertly blends rich, bold flavors with straightforward steps and versatile ingredients, culminating in a dish that’s both hearty and incredibly delicious. Imagine perfectly seasoned ground pork, generously melted cheese, and a zesty enchilada sauce, all lovingly wrapped in soft tortillas and baked until golden and bubbling. Whether you’re planning your weekly meals in advance or preparing a delightful, crowd-pleasing dinner for guests, these homemade pork enchiladas are an absolute must-try. They embody comfort food at its finest, offering a taste of authentic Mexican-inspired cuisine right in your own kitchen.
Enchiladas hold a special place in my home and are a consistent family favorite, a sentiment clearly reflected in the diverse range of enchilada recipes available on my blog. From Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas to rich Three-Cheese Beef Enchiladas, the convenient Beef Enchilada Casserole, the quick One Pot Chicken Enchilada Pasta, or even vibrant Vegetarian Enchiladas, there’s an option for every craving. There’s an undeniable comfort in savoring a plate of warm, cheesy enchiladas, especially when adorned with all your preferred toppings. What I particularly love about this dish is its incredible adaptability for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week with minimal effort. Plus, they make for truly fantastic leftovers!
This simple pork enchilada recipe is meticulously crafted to maximize both ease and flavor. The star of the filling is lean ground pork, which not only cooks quickly but also provides a substantial source of protein, making for an incredibly satisfying meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; you can effortlessly customize it to suit your tastes. Consider incorporating hearty black beans, creamy pinto beans, or even robust red beans for added texture and nutrition. Adjust the spice level to your preference, from a mild warmth to a fiery kick. You can also experiment with different types of enchilada sauce, such as a vibrant green chile sauce or a rich, complex mole sauce, to create unique flavor profiles. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to truly make this recipe your own.
For those who appreciate an extra layer of warmth and complexity, I often enhance the spice blend with a sprinkle of smoky paprika, a dash of earthy chipotle chili powder, or a pinch of aromatic Mexican oregano. These additions elevate the flavors, transforming a great dish into an exceptional one. Regardless of how you choose to personalize them, these pork enchiladas are guaranteed to be a delicious, whole family-approved dinner. They’re so good, in fact, that you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the leftovers the very next day!
Why You Will Absolutely Love This Pork Enchilada Recipe
- Quick and Effortless Preparation: These delectable enchiladas come together in under 45 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The process is streamlined: simply cook the ground pork, fill the tortillas with the savory mixture, assemble them neatly in a baking dish, and bake until perfectly done. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor.
- Abundant in Protein: Featuring ground pork, this recipe is a nutritional powerhouse. With approximately 22–24 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, pork offers a satisfying and nourishing choice that helps keep you full and energized. It’s a great way to incorporate lean protein into your diet without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Smart Meal Prepping: Prepare a generous batch of these enchiladas and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat meals for days. Portion them into individual containers, and they’re ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. They reheat beautifully, retaining their flavor and comforting texture, making meal planning a breeze.
- Versatile and Customizable: This recipe provides a fantastic base for creativity. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences. Add different vegetables, vary the cheese types, or experiment with various sauces. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages culinary exploration.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Enchiladas are inherently comforting and universally loved. The combination of seasoned meat, melted cheese, and savory sauce baked to perfection creates a dish that appeals to almost everyone, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pork Enchiladas
Crafting the perfect pork enchiladas begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Tortillas: For this recipe, soft flour tortillas are an excellent choice. They are pliable, easy to roll without tearing, and hold the filling and sauce beautifully, preventing them from becoming soggy too quickly. However, if you prefer a traditional taste or need a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are a fantastic alternative. Just remember to warm them gently before filling (either in a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel or briefly in a hot, dry skillet) to enhance their flexibility and prevent cracking during assembly.
- Ground Pork: The foundation of our flavorful filling! Ground pork cooks up quickly and contributes a rich, savory depth to the enchiladas. It’s a lean and versatile meat that readily absorbs the spices. As a creative twist, you could also substitute the ground pork with succulent pulled pork for a different texture and flavor profile. This is also an ingenious way to utilize any leftover cooked pork from a previous dinner, reducing food waste and making meal prep even easier.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples form the backbone of many savory dishes, and enchiladas are no exception. I typically use sweet or red onion for their mild sweetness and vibrant color, but any onion variety will work. Freshly minced garlic adds an indispensable pungent, savory kick. While I highly recommend including them for their depth of flavor, you can adjust the amounts or even omit them if you prefer, or if you’re looking to simplify the recipe further.
- Spices: The magic happens with our carefully selected blend of spices. Cumin offers earthy warmth, chili powder provides a foundational Mexican flavor, paprika adds a smoky sweetness, cayenne pepper introduces a touch of heat (which can be adjusted to taste), and oregano brings a classic herbaceous note. Together, these spices infuse the ground pork with a complex, aromatic, and smoky kick that defines the enchilada experience.
- Salsa: A good quality salsa is key to adding bright, tangy, and fresh flavors to the pork mixture. Opt for a thicker salsa to ensure the filling retains its texture and prevents the enchiladas from becoming watery or soggy. For an even fresher taste, consider using this easy Homemade Salsa or a zesty Salsa Verde, both of which will elevate the overall taste.
- Enchilada Sauce: The soul of any enchilada dish! You have the option to craft a truly exceptional homemade enchilada sauce for unparalleled freshness and control over ingredients. Alternatively, a high-quality store-bought enchilada sauce offers convenience without compromising too much on flavor. Whether you prefer a classic red enchilada sauce for its robust, savory notes or a vibrant green enchilada sauce for a brighter, tangier profile, choose the one that best suits your palate.
- Cheese: The glorious, melty topping that brings everything together! A blend of shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese is highly recommended for its excellent melting properties and rich flavor. Cheddar offers a tangy bite, while mozzarella provides that irresistible gooey stretch. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, pepper jack cheese is a fantastic addition. Other delightful options include crumbly queso fresco or creamy Monterey Jack cheese, each contributing a unique character to the finished dish.
Creative Recipe Variations to Explore
One of the best aspects of enchiladas is their incredible adaptability. This pork enchilada recipe serves as a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with these variations to customize the dish to your taste, dietary preferences, or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
- Add Hearty Beans: Incorporating beans into the meat mixture is an excellent way to add fiber, protein, and a wonderful creamy texture. Try adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans, pinto beans, red beans, or white beans. Refried beans can also be used for a richer, smoother consistency. Always ensure the beans are well-drained to prevent the filling from becoming watery and making your enchiladas soggy.
- Boost with More Vegetables: Increase the nutritional value and fresh flavors by folding in extra vegetables to the pork mixture. Sauté diced bell peppers (any color), corn kernels, sliced zucchini, or chopped mushrooms along with the onion and garlic. For a smoky, mild heat, add roasted poblano peppers. If you like more spice, finely diced jalapeños can be added directly to the filling. Just make sure to cook them down slightly so they don’t release too much moisture.
- Experiment with Spices: While our core spice blend is fantastic, don’t hesitate to explore other aromatic additions. A pinch of Mexican oregano offers a more authentic, earthy flavor. Crushed red pepper flakes can kick up the heat, while chipotle chili powder adds a distinct smoky, deep chili flavor. Ground coriander can bring a citrusy, slightly sweet note that complements the pork beautifully.
- Switch Up the Sauce: The enchilada sauce is a defining element. While a classic red enchilada sauce provides robust, savory goodness, you could opt for a bright and tangy green chile (salsa verde) sauce for a different flavor profile. For an incredibly rich and complex dish, consider using a traditional mole sauce, which offers a unique blend of chili, chocolate, and spices.
- Diverse Cheese Options: Beyond cheddar and mozzarella, there’s a world of cheese to explore for your enchiladas. Crumbly queso fresco or cotija cheese can be added as a topping after baking for a salty, fresh finish. Monterey Jack is another excellent melting cheese, offering a mild, buttery flavor. For an extra spicy kick, a blend of Pepper Jack and Colby Jack works wonderfully.
- Enhance with Fresh Toppings: Toppings are crucial for adding freshness, contrast, and visual appeal. Elevate your enchiladas with creamy slices of fresh avocado or a dollop of guacamole. Sprinkle with vibrant green onions (scallions) or a generous handful of fresh cilantro. Diced fresh tomatoes, a sprinkle of diced red onion, or thinly sliced jalapeños can add a lovely crunch and zing. For a gourmet touch, try homemade pickled red onions, other quick-pickled vegetables, a refreshing curtido, or even a zesty jalapeño coleslaw. For a complete flavor explosion, a spoonful of cowboy caviar can add a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
How to Create These Easy Pork Enchiladas
Making these delicious ground pork enchiladas is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring this flavorful dish to life in your kitchen. Before you begin, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics. Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and the onion softens and turns translucent. This step builds the foundational flavors for your pork filling.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Pork. To the skillet with the softened aromatics, add one pound of ground pork. Break the pork apart with a spoon and then sprinkle in your blend of spices: cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper (if using for an extra kick). Cook the pork, stirring and breaking it up into crumbles, until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, ensure you drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent a greasy filling.
Step 3: Combine with Salsa and Prepare Dish. Stir three tablespoons of your chosen salsa into the browned, seasoned pork mixture, mixing it thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Again, ensure any excess liquid is drained. Set this flavorful filling aside. Next, prepare your baking dish: lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Also, set aside half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese in a small bowl, ready for filling the tortillas.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas. Lay out your tortillas one at a time on a clean, large plate or cutting board. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the pork and salsa mixture into the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle a small amount of the reserved cheddar cheese over the filling. Carefully roll each tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling is enclosed, and place it seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them snugly side-by-side in the dish.
Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish. After rolling each tortilla, carefully place it seam-side down in the prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish. This ensures the enchiladas stay securely closed during baking. Continue to fill and roll all of the tortillas, arranging them in a single layer, side by side, until the baking dish is full. Don’t worry if they are a little snug; this helps them hold their shape.
Step 6: Drench with Sauce and Top with Cheese. Once all the enchiladas are arranged in the baking dish, evenly pour the two cups of enchilada sauce over them, making sure each enchilada is well coated. The sauce will infuse flavor and keep the tortillas moist. Next, generously sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the full 1 cup of mozzarella or pepper jack cheese over the top of the sauced enchiladas. This will create a luscious, melted cheese crust during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection. Place the uncovered baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through, the sauce is bubbly, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and slightly golden. The edges of the tortillas should also be lightly crispy. Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling time allows the cheese to set slightly and makes for easier serving.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve. The final touch! Before serving, generously garnish your freshly baked enchiladas with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and fresh chopped tomatoes. These vibrant toppings add a burst of color and refreshing contrast to the rich, savory enchiladas. Serve them warm and watch them disappear! These enchiladas are a complete meal on their own, but can also be accompanied by a side of rice or a simple green salad.
Smart Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These pork enchiladas are just as delicious the next day, making them excellent for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Here are some tips to store and prepare them efficiently:
- Storing Cooked Enchiladas: Once the enchiladas have cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, you can use the microwave for a quick meal (though the tortillas might soften) or place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and the cheese is re-melted. Any remaining enchilada sauce can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing Unbaked Enchiladas: If you’re planning for future meals, unbaked enchiladas freeze beautifully. Assemble the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish as directed, but do not add the enchilada sauce or cheese yet. Cover the dish tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, then a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator. Then, remove the plastic wrap, add the sauce and cheese, and bake as per the recipe instructions, potentially adding an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure they are heated through.
- Make-Ahead for Freshness: For maximum freshness and convenience, you can prepare the enchiladas up to 3 days in advance. Assemble the tortillas with the pork filling and arrange them in your baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap, pour over the enchilada sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and bake as directed. This method ensures you have a fresh-tasting meal with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Pork Enchilada Recipe FAQs
Soggy enchiladas often result from too much sauce or a watery filling. To prevent this, ensure you thoroughly drain any excess liquid from the cooked pork mixture before filling the tortillas. Additionally, use just enough enchilada sauce to lightly coat the tortillas rather than drenching them excessively. A thick salsa for the filling also helps maintain a firm texture.
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a traditional choice for enchiladas and offer a distinct flavor and texture. If using corn tortillas, they may need gentle warming (e.g., briefly in a hot, dry skillet or microwave) to make them more pliable and prevent them from cracking when you roll them. This is especially important if you’re aiming for a gluten-free dish.
For the best texture and to maintain some crispness in the tortillas, reheat your enchiladas in the oven. Place them in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. While the microwave is a quicker option, it tends to make the tortillas softer and can sometimes dry out the edges.
Yes, you can absolutely prepare the pork filling a day or two in advance. Cook and season the ground pork as directed, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the enchiladas, simply warm the filling slightly before spooning it into the tortillas, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
Pork enchiladas are incredibly versatile! Classic sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette. For something lighter, consider serving them with a fresh corn and black bean salsa, or a side of steamed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a side of guacamole for extra creaminess!
More Delicious Pork Recipes You’ll Love
Pork
Slow Cooker Cuban Pork Rice Bowls
Simple Dinner Recipes
Mediterranean Baked Pork Tenderloin
Slow Cooker
Slow Cooker Pork Pozole
Pork
Easy Thai Pork Stir-Fry
Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a star rating and comment below. To stay updated with our latest delicious recipes, subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on
Facebook,
Instagram, or
Pinterest for the latest culinary inspirations.
Easy & Flavorful Ground Pork Enchilada Recipe
Pin
Ingredients
- 8 – 10- inch flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sweet onion or red onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound of ground pork, cooked and drained
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper {optional}
- 3 tablespoons salsa
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded {divided in half}
- 1 cup mozzarella or pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Red onion, diced for garnish
- Fresh tomato, chopped for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
-
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
-
Add the ground pork to the skillet along with the cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook, breaking up the pork, until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through. Once cooked, drain any excess juices from the skillet.
-
Stir in 3 tablespoons of salsa to the pork mixture until well combined. Lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
-
Place 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese in a small bowl next to your pork mixture, ready for assembly.
-
Place one tortilla on a large plate. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the pork mixture into the center of the tortilla, then sprinkle with a small amount of the reserved cheddar cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly until closed, and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process for all remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them side-by-side in the dish.
-
Evenly pour the 2 cups of enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the 1 cup of mozzarella or pepper jack cheese over the sauce-covered enchiladas.
-
Bake the enchiladas uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through, the sauce is bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
-
Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and fresh chopped tomatoes, or any other desired toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Leftover cooked enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Make-ahead: For convenient meal prep, you can assemble the enchiladas without adding the enchilada sauce and cheese. Wrap the pan tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, remove the foil, add the sauce and cheese, and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze the prepared (un-sauced and un-cheesed) enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator for 24 hours before adding sauce and cheese and baking.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.