Beef Enchiladas
If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, beef enchiladas are the perfect choice! These flavorful rolled tortillas stuffed with seasoned beef, topped with a zesty sauce, and melted cheese will delight your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious world of beef enchiladas!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup 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 15 minutes, and cooking time is 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 20g protein. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in half of the enchilada sauce, mixing well.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and roll tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce and cover with foil.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, use gluten-free tortillas if you’re avoiding gluten. For a vegetarian version, consider using beans or lentils as a filling.
Serving and Pairings
Beef enchiladas pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve them with guacamole and sour cream for added richness.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can make it dry.
- Using cold tortillas can lead to tearing.
- Not enough sauce can make the enchiladas dry.
- Skipping the foil can result in burnt cheese.
- Using too much filling can cause the tortillas to burst.
Helpful Tips
- Always warm tortillas before filling.
- Experiment with different cheese blends.
- Add more spices to suit your taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for flavor.
FAQs
Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just cover them tightly and add the sauce and cheese before baking when ready to serve.
Are beef enchiladas spicy?
The spice level can vary depending on the enchilada sauce and seasonings you use. You can adjust the chili powder to your preference for milder or spicier enchiladas.
What’s the best type of cheese for enchiladas?
Cheddar cheese and Mexican blends are popular choices. You can also use Monterey Jack or queso fresco for a different flavor profile.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but traditional enchiladas are made with corn tortillas for their authentic flavor and texture.
How do I make enchiladas vegetarian?
Simply replace the beef with a mixture of beans, veggies, or lentils, and use vegetable broth for added flavor.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas are a delightful dish that combines savory beef, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion, ensuring a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic dish!
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 10 oz enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup 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, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in half of the enchilada sauce, mixing well.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and roll tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce and cover with foil.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
