If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, my beef enchilada recipe is just the ticket! These enchiladas are packed with flavor, and they have this magical way of making any meal feel like a special occasion. I remember growing up, my family would gather around the kitchen, the aroma of seasoned beef and melted cheese filling the air, and we’d all dive into a pan of these delicious treats. What I love most is how versatile they are—you can switch up the fillings, toss in some veggies, or even make them spicy if that’s your jam! Trust me, once you give this beef enchilada recipe a try, it’ll quickly become a go-to for your family gatherings, just like it is for mine!
Ingredients for Beef Enchilada Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious beef enchilada recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the show! You can also use lean ground beef if you prefer.
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce: This adds that rich, tangy flavor we crave. You can choose mild or spicy, depending on your taste!
- 8 tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas work great, so pick your favorite. I usually go for flour for that soft, chewy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best melty goodness!
- 1 small onion, chopped: This adds a wonderful sweetness and depth to the filling. Don’t skip it!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that extra kick of flavor. Fresh garlic works too if you have it on hand.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: A must for that warm, earthy undertone that enhances the beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season your food! Adjust to your preference.
These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish that your family will love. So, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Beef Enchilada Recipe
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these scrumptious beef enchiladas! It’s a simple process, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a nice, even bake for your enchiladas.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to break up the beef.
- Season the mixture: Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and cook for another minute, just to let those spices mingle and develop flavor.
- Prepare the baking dish: Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. This helps keep the tortillas from sticking!
- Assemble the enchiladas: Take a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture down the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover them well. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You might want to peek in around the 15-minute mark to see how it’s coming along!
And there you have it! The smell of those enchiladas baking is going to make your kitchen feel like a fiesta. Just wait until you dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This beef enchilada recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Packed: Each bite is bursting with delicious flavors from the seasoned beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheese—it’s a fiesta for your taste buds!
- Comfort Food Classic: There’s something so satisfying about digging into a warm plate of enchiladas. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the fillings to suit your family’s preferences—try chicken, beans, or even veggies for a delightful twist!
- Great for Leftovers: These enchiladas store well, so you can enjoy them the next day. They taste just as good (if not better!) when reheated.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Tips for Success
To make sure your beef enchilada recipe turns out perfect every time, here are some of my go-to tips:
- Don’t Overfill: When you’re rolling the tortillas, be careful not to overstuff them. A little filling goes a long way, and it’ll make rolling easier!
- Warm the Tortillas: If you warm your tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds before filling, they’ll be much more pliable and less likely to crack.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix up the enchilada sauce. You can use green sauce for a different flavor profile, or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Let Them Rest: Allow the enchiladas to sit for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps them set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Garnish for Flair: Top your enchiladas with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra pop of flavor and color!
With these tips, you’re bound to impress everyone with your delicious beef enchiladas!
Variations on Beef Enchilada Recipe
If you’re looking to shake things up with your beef enchilada recipe, I’ve got some delicious ideas that will keep your meals exciting and flavorful!
- Chicken Enchiladas: Swap out the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken. It’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken!
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Skip the meat entirely and load your tortillas with a mix of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, black beans, and corn. Top with a hearty enchilada sauce for that classic flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for those who love a little heat! You can also use spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Enchiladas: For a gooey goodness, add extra layers of cheese between the tortillas before rolling them up. You can never go wrong with more cheese!
- Breakfast Enchiladas: Fill your tortillas with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese for a hearty breakfast version. This is a fantastic way to start the day!
- Seafood Enchiladas: Try using cooked shrimp or crab mixed with cream cheese for a unique and indulgent flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the journey of making these enchiladas your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! These beef enchiladas store beautifully, and you can enjoy them again without losing that delicious flavor. To store, simply let the enchiladas cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to savor them for longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each individual enchilada tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to dig in again, reheating is a breeze. If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place the enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also pop them in the microwave for a quicker option—just be sure to cover them to keep them moist! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my beef enchilada recipe, it’s nice to know what’s going into each delicious bite. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (1 enchilada):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But whether you’re counting calories or just enjoying a hearty meal, these enchiladas deliver flavor and satisfaction without too much guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a fantastic option for your beef enchilada recipe. They add a lovely texture and flavor. Just be sure to warm them up a bit before filling to make them easier to roll without cracking.
How do I make my enchiladas spicier?
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, try adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or using a spicy enchilada sauce. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra punch!
Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance and store them in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to bake. Just be mindful that they might need an extra few minutes in the oven since they’ll be cold when you pop them in.
What can I serve with beef enchiladas?
These enchiladas are delicious on their own, but I love serving them with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. And don’t forget the sour cream and guacamole—those are a must!
Can I freeze the beef enchiladas?
Definitely! You can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake from frozen, adding a bit of extra time to the cooking process.
Beef Enchilada Recipe: 7 Delicious Comfort Food Secrets
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A tasty recipe for beef enchiladas, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned.
- Add garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
- Spread a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and roll them up.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle cheese on top of the sauce.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Serve with sour cream and guacamole.
- Use shredded chicken or beans for a different filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: beef enchilada recipe, enchiladas, Mexican food
