When you think of comfort food, does your mind drift to the irresistible allure of beef enchiladas? These flavorful bundles of joy are like a warm hug wrapped in tortillas, oozing with melted cheese and savory beef. Picture that first bite: the soft tortilla giving way to a symphony of spices, with every mouthful transporting you to a fiesta in your taste buds.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of taco nights that always ended with beef enchiladas. The laughter around the dinner table and the aromas wafting from the kitchen made those evenings unforgettable. Whether it was a Tuesday or a special occasion, these enchiladas were always a hit, making even the pickiest eaters dive in for seconds. If you’re ready to recreate this deliciousness in your own kitchen, prepare yourself for an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef enchilada recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich and savory flavor profile is sure to satisfy any craving
- With vibrant colors from toppings, these enchiladas are visually stunning on any plate
- They’re versatile too; switch up fillings or sauces based on what you have on hand
I remember one family gathering where my cousin accidentally spilled salsa all over his shirt while trying to load up on these enchiladas. We still laugh about it today—proof that good food creates great memories!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a lower fat option without sacrificing flavor; it holds spices beautifully.
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Flour Tortillas: Opt for large tortillas to hold all that delicious filling; they should be soft but sturdy enough to roll.
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Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts perfectly, creating that gooey texture we all love.
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Enchilada Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce—this adds depth and moisture; don’t skimp!
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Onions: Sautéed onions caramelize beautifully; their sweetness balances the savory flavors in the dish.
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Spices: Cumin and chili powder are essential here; they add warmth and complexity to your filling.
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Sour Cream: For topping! It adds creaminess that cuts through the spice and enhances richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. This makes cooking smoother and prevents last-minute dashes for forgotten items.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and add chopped onions. Cook until they’re translucent and sweet-smelling; this takes about 4-5 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to your skillet with the onions. Stir until browned and cooked through; drain excess fat if necessary. Season generously with cumin and chili powder.
Prep Your Tortillas: Warm flour tortillas in a pan or microwave until pliable—this will make them easier to roll without tearing.
Assemble Your Enchiladas: Take a tortilla, scoop some beef mixture inside, sprinkle cheese generously, then roll tightly. Repeat until all fillings are used up.
Bake & Serve!: Place rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over them and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Enjoy every cheesy bite as you serve these delightful beef enchiladas hot from the oven—don’t forget that dollop of sour cream on top!
Now that you’ve mastered this scrumptious recipe, get ready for compliments from friends and family alike!
You Must Know
- These beef enchiladas are a fiesta of flavors, combining rich spices and gooey cheese
- The aroma alone will have your neighbors knocking on your door
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, they can also impress guests at gatherings with their vibrant presentation and delicious taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the beef with onions and spices, then assemble enchiladas while the sauce simmers for best efficiency and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or add black beans for extra protein and texture. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can elevate the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for optimal results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect beef enchiladas, ensure your tortillas are warm before filling them to prevent tearing
- Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor depth
- Don’t skimp on the sauce; it binds everything together beautifully!
Memories of my first batch of beef enchiladas make me smile; they were a hit at my friend’s party, proving that good food brings people together.
FAQ
What type of beef is best for beef enchiladas?
Ground beef with a bit of fat adds flavor and richness to your enchiladas.
Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and bake just before serving.
How can I make beef enchiladas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or use spicy salsa to kick up the heat level in your dish.
Beef Enchiladas
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade beef enchiladas, a delightful dish that combines tender tortillas, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-follow recipe will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (4-5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet with onions; cook until browned. Drain excess fat and season with cumin and chili powder.
- Warm flour tortillas in a pan or microwave until pliable.
- Assemble enchiladas by placing a scoop of beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese inside each tortilla; roll tightly.
- Place rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over them and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot with sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
