Beef Enchiladas
Indulge in the savory delight of beef enchiladas, a classic Mexican dish that brings together tender beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to spice up your weeknight dinners. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, beef enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that make this dish irresistible!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup onion, chopped
– 2 cups enchilada sauce
– 8 flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Sour cream for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft.
4. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
6. Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
7. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
8. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, covering all tortillas.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the top.
10. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option. Additionally, corn tortillas can be used instead of flour for a gluten-free version. Feel free to add black beans or vegetables for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Beef enchiladas pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Top with avocado slices or jalapeños for added flavor, and serve with a side of sour cream and salsa for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Beef enchiladas can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the beef; it should be browned but not dry.
– Avoid using cold tortillas; warm them for easier rolling.
– Ensure enough sauce is used to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the baking step; it melds the flavors.
– Be cautious with salt; adjust to taste after seasoning.
Helpful Tips
– Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
– Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique taste.
– Make it spicy by adding diced green chilies to the filling.
– Prepare the filling ahead of time for quicker assembly.
FAQs
Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and assemble the enchiladas in advance. Just cover them and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
You can use a homemade tomato sauce or even a green salsa for a different flavor profile.
Are beef enchiladas gluten-free?
If you use corn tortillas and ensure the enchilada sauce is gluten-free, then yes, they can be gluten-free.
How can I make beef enchiladas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Can I use leftover roast beef for enchiladas?
Absolutely! Shredded leftover roast beef works great in enchiladas for added flavor.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy these delicious enchiladas with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, covering all tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
