Beef Enchiladas
A Deliciously Hearty Meal Awaits
Beef enchiladas bring a burst of flavors that warm the heart. This classic Mexican dish combines sautéed onions and garlic, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in spicy enchilada sauce. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, these enchiladas are sure to impress. I remember the first time I made them; my family could hardly wait for the first bite! There’s something about that cheesy, savory goodness that turns any gathering into a fiesta.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re looking for quick and satisfying comfort food, beef enchiladas are a fantastic choice. They check all the boxes: they’re budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavor. You can whip them up in under an hour, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. Plus, they’re kid-approved, meaning even the pickiest eaters at your table are likely to ask for seconds.
“These beef enchiladas were the hit of our dinner party! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. So easy to make and absolutely delicious!” – A happy home cook.
Step-by-step overview
Making beef enchiladas is a straightforward process that can be broken down into simple steps. You’ll start by preparing your filling, then roll it up in tortillas, add some sauce and cheese, and finally bake until everything is perfectly hot and bubbly. Here’s how it all comes together:
- Sauté chopped onions and garlic.
- Brown the ground beef.
- Combine with enchilada sauce.
- Roll the mixture in tortillas with cheese.
- Bake to perfection.
With this roadmap, you won’t feel overwhelmed. Let’s dive into the ingredients!
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients ahead of time is key. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious beef enchiladas:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 8-10 flour or corn tortillas
Note: If you’re short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for the meat.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it’s nicely browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the enchilada sauce, making sure the beef is well-coated.
- Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
- Serve hot and bask in the compliments!
Best ways to enjoy it
These beef enchiladas are as versatile as they are delicious. Serve them with a side of fresh guacamole, cilantro lime rice, or maybe a vibrant salad. You could also add some sour cream or salsa on top when serving for an extra kick. For an authentic touch, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any leftovers (though I’m sure they’ll be few!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerating: Place any uneaten enchiladas in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
To make your cooking experience even smoother:
- Don’t rush the sautéing: Allow the onions and garlic to truly soften and become fragrant before adding the beef—it makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, consider using a hot enchilada sauce or adding diced chilies to the beef mixture.
- Melt the cheese to perfection: For an extra touch, broil for the last few minutes of baking for that beautifully golden crust.
Creative twists
Looking to get adventurous? Here are some creative variations for your beef enchiladas:
- Cheesy Black Bean Enchiladas: Substitute half of the beef with canned black beans for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Chicken Enchiladas: Use shredded chicken and add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the enchilada mix.
- Breakfast Enchiladas: Fill the tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and chorizo for a fabulous brunch option.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make beef enchiladas?
From start to finish, you can make these enchiladas in about 45-60 minutes.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas work well and are gluten-free, but consider warming them up in a dry skillet first to prevent them from cracking when rolled.
What can I serve with enchiladas?
Great options include Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad. Salsas and guacamole always complement enchiladas beautifully.
Your culinary journey into the world of beef enchiladas awaits! Bring this delectable recipe into your kitchen, and I guarantee it will become a beloved staple.
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it’s nicely browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the enchilada sauce, making sure the beef is well-coated.
- Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy the compliments!
