Beef Enchiladas
Indulge in the mouthwatering experience of homemade beef enchiladas, where tender beef meets zesty sauce, wrapped in soft tortillas. This dish, bursting with authentic flavors, is perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. With layers of cheese and rich spices, every bite is a celebration of Mexican cuisine. Get ready to impress with this easy yet delicious recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 18g fat, and 5g fiber. This is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the beef mixture; mix well.
- Warm tortillas in a separate pan until soft.
- Fill each tortilla with beef mixture and sprinkle with cheese.
- Roll tortillas and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Cover enchiladas with the remaining enchilada sauce and top with more cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try black beans or lentils. You can also use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs.
Serving and Pairings
Beef enchiladas pair perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Enchiladas can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overfill the tortillas, as they may burst while baking.
- Be sure to warm tortillas before filling; this makes them more pliable.
- Use enough sauce to prevent the enchiladas from drying out.
- Don’t skip the baking step; it melds the flavors beautifully.
- Check seasoning; adjust spices according to your taste.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
- Let the enchiladas sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch.
- Experiment with different sauces for variety.
FAQs
Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the enchiladas ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
What type of cheese is best for enchiladas?
Cheddar and Mexican blend cheeses work well, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
How do I make enchiladas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or use a spicier enchilada sauce to increase the heat level.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but they may not have the same authentic flavor and texture as corn tortillas.
How can I enhance the flavor of the beef?
Marinate the beef in spices or add additional herbs such as oregano or smoked paprika for extra flavor depth.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors and comforting textures, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making this delightful meal that brings the taste of Mexico right to your table!
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the beef mixture; mix well.
- Warm tortillas in a separate pan until soft.
- Fill each tortilla with beef mixture and sprinkle with cheese.
- Roll tortillas and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Cover enchiladas with the remaining enchilada sauce and top with more cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
