Ultimate Beef Enchiladas: Classic Comfort Food for Every Table
Bold, cheesy rolls packed with seasoned meat and zesty sauce, perfect for any gathering.
Ultimate Beef Enchiladas Recipe
When you crave hearty, home-cooked comfort, look no further than a bubbling tray of beef enchiladas. Bursting with seasoned ground beef, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and lavished with melty cheese, this dish is a staple for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and festive gatherings alike. Inspired by classic flavors and perfected for easy preparation, this guide will walk you through every flavorful step of making mouth-watering beef enchiladas at home.
What Are Beef Enchiladas?
Beef enchiladas are a beloved Mexican-inspired casserole, where tortillas are filled with savory ground beef and other goodies, rolled tightly, smothered in enchilada sauce, and baked beneath a golden layer of cheese. Each bite delivers a craveable combination of tender beef, spicy sauce, and gooey cheddar, making this dish a timeless crowd-pleaser.
Beef Enchiladas: Key Ingredients
Success starts with choosing flavorful, quality ingredients. The classic beef enchiladas recipe uses the following components:
- Enchilada Sauce: Choose store-bought red enchilada sauce, or opt for homemade for deeper flavor.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (90% lean, 10% fat), often labeled as ground sirloin, is preferred for less greasiness.
- Spice Blend: Kosher salt, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper combine for robust seasoning.
- Onions & Garlic: Create a savory base for your beef filling.
- Green Chiles: For a mild kick and extra depth.
- Flour Tortillas: Soft, 8-inch tortillas are ideal for rolling and baking.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers tangy bite.
- Fresh Garnishes: Chopped red onion and cilantro offer a pop of color and freshness.
- Sour Cream: Optional dollop to balance the heat and add creaminess.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Red Enchilada Sauce | 2 cups (20 oz) | Sauce for filling & topping |
| Lean Ground Beef | 1.5 lbs | Main protein filling |
| Flour Tortillas | 8 (8-inch) | Enchilada wraps |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups, shredded | Melty topping & filling |
| Onion | 1 small, chopped | Beef filling flavor |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Filling flavor |
| Green Chiles | 4 oz can, drained | Zesty filling add-in |
| Spices | Salt, cumin, chili powder, paprika, pepper | Seasoning |
| Olive Oil | 1 Tbsp. | Sauté aromatics |
| Red Onion (garnish) | To taste | Fresh topping |
| Cilantro (garnish) | To taste | Fresh topping |
| Sour Cream (optional) | To serve | Creamy accent |
Step-by-Step Directions
These beef enchiladas are easy and approachable, suitable for cooks of every skill level. Follow these clear steps to perfect results:
1. Prep the Enchilada Sauce
Pour the enchilada sauce into a small saucepan. In a separate bowl, combine all the spices (salt, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, pepper). Stir in half a teaspoon of the spice mixture into the sauce, reserving the rest for the beef. Simmer the sauce gently over medium heat, then remove from the heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Filling
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; cook until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef and remaining spice blend. Stir often, breaking up the beef, until browned and crumbly (about 8 minutes).
- Stir in drained green chiles and half a cup of the enchilada sauce from the saucepan. Cook for 2 minutes, then take off the heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Tortillas
- Arrange tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave for 30 seconds to soften, keeping them moist and pliable for rolling. Leave the damp towel on until ready to use.
4. Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon half a cup of the warmed sauce evenly along the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- For each enchilada, place a tortilla on a flat work surface, spoon about ½ cup of the beef mixture down its center, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons cheese.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Continue until all tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish.
- Spoon the rest of the sauce over the enchiladas, covering them completely.
- Top evenly with the remaining cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling and the tortillas are just starting to brown on top.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Scatter with thinly sliced red onion and chopped cilantro.
- Serve with a generous spoonful of sour cream, if desired.
What others are reading
Expert Cooking Tips & Variations
- Use Lean Beef: Reduces excess fat and keeps the filling tender without being greasy.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the smoked paprika or green chiles—these deliver the signature flavor punch.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and sauce a day in advance. Store assembled (but unbaked) enchiladas tightly covered in the fridge; bake fresh when needed.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze the entire tray, wrapped well, for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake with extra cheese as needed.
- Tortilla Choice: This recipe uses flour tortillas for tenderness. Substitute corn tortillas for a more traditional, earthy bite and gluten-free adaptation.
- Cheese Swap: Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend work well for a creamier melt.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 |
| Protein | 29g |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 1090mg |
*Exact values may vary according to ingredient brands and portion size.
Serving Suggestions & Toppings
Make your beef enchiladas a feast with flavorful toppings and side dishes:
- Toppings: Sliced green onions, diced avocado, salsa, pico de gallo, fresh jalapeños, crumbled cotija cheese, and sliced olives all make great additions.
- On the Side: Try serving with Spanish rice, refried beans, roasted corn, or a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette.
- For Extra Heat: Offer hot sauce or chipotle crema for spice lovers!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Cool leftovers completely. Store tightly covered for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freeze: Bake, cool, and wrap individual portions or the entire dish for longer storage. Reheat from frozen covered with foil, adding extra cheese if needed.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, refrigerate overnight, then bake just before serving for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I substitute corn tortillas for flour?
A: Absolutely. For a more traditional approach and gluten-free variation, substitute 10–12 corn tortillas. Warm or fry them briefly to prevent cracking while rolling.
Q: How spicy are these beef enchiladas?
A: This recipe is mild to medium in heat. To increase spiciness, add diced jalapeños to the filling or use hot enchilada sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead for a party?
A: Yes—assemble and refrigerate the enchiladas a day ahead, then bake just before serving for the freshest results.
Q: What are the best sides for beef enchiladas?
A: Spanish rice, refried or black beans, tangy slaw, and sliced avocado are all excellent options.
Q: Can I freeze beef enchiladas?
A: Yes. Freeze the baked or unbaked dish, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time and cheese as needed.
Q: What other meats can I use in enchiladas?
A: Shredded chicken, pulled pork, or ground turkey all work well in place of ground beef. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Beef Enchiladas
Loaded with bold flavor, easy to customize, and able to feed a hungry crowd, these beef enchiladas are sure to become a go-to favorite in your family recipe box. Try them for your next family meal and enjoy the unbeatable combination of seasoned beef, tangy sauce, and bubbling cheese!
References
- https://cheesecurdinparadise.com/pioneer-womans-beef-enchiladas/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a40395061/beef-enchiladas-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a34416873/beef-enchilada-casserole/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPn2kpJSGJ8
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11533/simple-perfect-enchiladas/
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