Beef Enchiladas

Beef Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying Mexican dish that combines flavorful seasoned beef, warm tortillas, and rich, spicy enchilada sauce, all topped with melted cheese. This recipe encapsulates the essence of comfort food with its gooey cheese and tender meat, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Traditionally, corn tortillas are used, which adds a distinct authenticity, while the fillings and toppings can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or simply craving something hearty, these enchiladas are sure to please the palate and bring a taste of Mexico to your table. Let’s delve into the ingredients and steps needed to create this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup sour cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
5. In a separate baking dish, spread a small amount of enchilada sauce over the bottom to prevent sticking.
6. To assemble each enchilada, warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them pliable. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, along with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
7. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
8. Once all enchiladas are assembled, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, with each serving consisting of 2 enchiladas. Enjoy your Beef Enchiladas with sides of your choice for a fulfilling meal!

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Skillet
• Baking dish (preferably 9×13 inches)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener (if using canned ingredients)
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

1. Choosing the Meat: Use a good quality ground beef, preferably lean, to reduce excess fat and make a healthier enchilada. You can also substitute with ground turkey or beef alternatives for a varied flavor profile.

2. Preparation of Salsa: If you prefer a fresh taste, consider making your own salsa by combining chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This can elevate the flavor of your enchiladas tremendously.

3. Tortilla Selection: Opt for corn tortillas for a traditional approach with better flavor absorption. For softer enchiladas, you may choose flour tortillas, but ensure to warm them slightly before filling to avoid cracking.

4. Assembly Technique: When rolling the tortillas, be careful not to overfill them to prevent them from bursting during cooking. A generous tablespoon of filling is usually a good guide.

5. Optional Add-Ins: Enhance your filling with black beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

6. Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is a popular choice, consider blending cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco for a more complex flavor.

7. Topping Ideas: Before serving, garnish your enchiladas with fresh avocado slices, dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro to enhance presentation and taste.

8. Baking Technique: Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the first half of baking to keep moisture in, and then uncover for the second half to allow for browning of the cheese.

Skill Level

Intermediate: While making beef enchiladas requires basic cooking skills, it does involve multiple steps, including assembling and baking, which makes it a bit more involved than a simple dish.

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main dish
• Cuisine: Mexican

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

Serve the beef enchiladas hot out of the oven, straight from the baking dish or plated individually for a more elegant presentation. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of queso fresco and a wedge of lime for added zest. A colorful salsa or guacamole served on the side can also enhance the dining experience.

Storage Conditions

Beef enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled (but uncooked) enchiladas. Wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and they will keep for about 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as desired.

Health Benefits

Beef enchiladas provide a good source of high-quality protein, especially beneficial for muscle repair and growth, which is integral for a balanced diet. They are also packed with essential nutrients from any added vegetables, such as fiber for digestive health, vitamins A and C from tomatoes, as well as several vital minerals. By controlling the ingredients used, they can also be customized to meet specific dietary needs.

Recommendations for Vegans

For a vegan version of beef enchiladas, substitute the ground beef with plant-based proteins such as lentils or meat substitutes like textured vegetable protein (TVP). Utilize vegan cheese alternatives and ensure all sauces and tortillas used are dairy-free.

Similar Recipes

• Chicken Enchiladas
• Vegetarian Enchiladas
• Cheese Enchiladas
• Enchiladas Suizas (Swiss-style enchiladas)
• Tamales
• Quesadillas