Beef Enchiladas
Get ready to indulge in a classic Mexican dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort: beef enchiladas! These delicious rolled tortillas filled with seasoned beef and topped with rich enchilada sauce and cheese are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the world of beef enchiladas, where every bite offers a fiesta of flavors!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup 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
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of beef enchiladas (1 enchilada) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, and 30g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving size and includes the nutritional value of the filling and toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in half of the enchilada sauce, mixing well.
6. Warm the tortillas in a pan until pliable.
7. Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla, rolling them up tightly.
8. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish.
9. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
10. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use black beans or lentils in place of beef. Additionally, corn tortillas can be swapped for flour tortillas based on preference.
Serving and Pairings
Beef enchiladas pair wonderfully with Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. For an extra kick, serve with jalapeños or a side of guacamole. A dollop of sour cream complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover beef 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, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can make it tough; cook just until browned.
- Using cold tortillas can lead to cracking; warm them first.
- Not enough sauce can lead to dry enchiladas; be generous with the sauce.
- Forgetting to cover with foil can result in burnt cheese.
- Using too much spice can overpower the dish; adjust to taste.
Helpful Tips
- Let the enchiladas sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use homemade enchilada sauce for a fresh taste.
FAQs
Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add extra cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option work well. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your enchiladas.
How do I spice up the enchiladas?
Add more chili powder or jalapeños to the beef mixture, or top with spicy salsa for an extra kick.
What should I serve with beef enchiladas?
Pair them with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Toppings like guacamole and sour cream add a delightful touch.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. With their rich flavors and satisfying textures, they’re perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making these delightful enchiladas and share them with family and friends for a truly memorable meal.
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 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
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onion and minced 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 pan until pliable.
- Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
