Beef Enchilada Recipe
There’s something truly comforting about a plate of homemade Beef Enchiladas. The combination of savory seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a rich enchilada sauce wrapped in warm tortillas makes for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this Beef Enchilada Recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Cooks rave about this Beef Enchilada Recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible; the seasoned ground beef paired with the gooey Monterey Jack cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Plus, the homemade enchilada sauce brings everything together beautifully, offering a fresh taste that’s hard to match with store-bought alternatives. Lastly, it’s versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or add extra ingredients for a personal touch.
Ingredient List
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- 10 tortillas
- 8 ounces sour cream
- Cilantro, optional for garnish
- 2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese
- Homemade enchilada sauce (recipe below)
Must-Have Equipment
- Large skillet: For browning the beef and mixing in seasonings.
- Baking dish: To assemble and bake the enchiladas.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the beef and sauce together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Oven: To bake the enchiladas until bubbly and golden.
Beef Enchilada Recipe in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
Start by making your homemade enchilada sauce. In a saucepan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add flour to make a roux, then stir in tomato paste, chili powder, and spices. Gradually whisk in broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Simmer until thickened, then set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you enjoy.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a little enchilada sauce at the bottom. Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous amount of seasoned beef and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all the tortillas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring all the tortillas are covered. Sprinkle the grated Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the sauce.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra touch, broil for 2-3 minutes to get a beautiful golden color on top.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve the enchiladas with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finish. Enjoy your homemade Beef Enchiladas!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the beef for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a plant-based version.
- Low-Carb Version: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter meal.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or corn into the beef mixture for added nutrition.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Beef Enchilada Recipe is incredibly forgiving, so feel free to adjust seasonings to suit your taste. If you like a little sweetness, consider adding a touch of sugar to the enchilada sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; cheddar or pepper jack can add unique flavors. Don’t forget that the quality of your tortillas can make a difference—opt for fresh corn tortillas for the best results.
How to Store & Reheat
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will keep the tortillas from getting soggy.
Quick Questions
Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought enchilada sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade sauce adds a fresh taste that elevates the dish.
What kind of tortillas are best for enchiladas?
Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, while corn tortillas have a traditional flavor. Both work well, but corn tortillas are often preferred for authentic enchiladas.
Can I freeze enchiladas?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas as directed but do not bake them. Instead, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What do I do if the tortillas break when rolling?
If your tortillas are breaking, they may be too cold. Warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or on a skillet for a few moments to soften them up before rolling.
Serve with These
- Amazing Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
- Creamy Tomato Spinach Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage
- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Penne
- Refried beans for a side
- Mexican rice for a complete meal
Bring It Home
This Beef Enchilada Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit. With easy-to-follow steps, you can create a comforting dish that brings everyone together around the table. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.
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Beef Enchilada Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by making your homemade enchilada sauce. In a saucepan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add flour to make a roux, then stir in tomato paste, chili powder, and spices. Gradually whisk in broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Simmer until thickened, then set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you enjoy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a little enchilada sauce at the bottom. Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous amount of seasoned beef and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Once all the tortillas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring all the tortillas are covered. Sprinkle the grated Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra touch, broil for 2-3 minutes to get a beautiful golden color on top.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve the enchiladas with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finish. Enjoy your homemade Beef Enchiladas!
Notes
- Feel free to adjust seasonings to taste.
- Try adding diced jalapeños for extra heat!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
