Beef Enchiladas
Craving a comforting and flavorful dish? Beef enchiladas are the perfect solution! This classic Mexican dish features tender beef wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich red sauce, and topped with cheese. Ideal for any occasion, these enchiladas are sure to please both family and friends. Get ready to impress everyone at your table with this easy yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 can red enchilada sauce
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks.
6. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
7. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave to soften.
8. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture into each tortilla and roll them up.
9. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
10. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Additionally, use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version, or swap red sauce for green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Beef enchiladas pair perfectly with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad. Top with sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh salsa for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Freezing is also an option; wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold tortillas can lead to cracking; warm them first.
- Overfilling tortillas can cause spills; keep fillings modest.
- Not sealing the edges can lead to soggy enchiladas.
- Skipping the cheese topping makes them less flavorful.
- Using too much sauce can make them soggy.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different meats or beans for variety.
- Top with fresh ingredients just before serving for freshness.
- Let enchiladas sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
- Use homemade enchilada sauce for a personal touch.
FAQs
Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the enchiladas ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
You can use salsa or a homemade sauce made from blended tomatoes, chili powder, and spices as an alternative.
Are beef enchiladas spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your taste. Use mild enchilada sauce for less heat or add jalapeños for extra spice.
Can I freeze beef enchiladas?
Absolutely! Assemble and freeze before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.
What sides go well with enchiladas?
Mexican rice, beans, and a fresh salad complement enchiladas beautifully.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas are a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors and comforting texture, they are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try this recipe for a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 can red enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Season with cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
- Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave to soften.
- Spoon a portion of the beef mixture into each tortilla and roll them up.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
