Ah, beef enchiladas! Just saying the name makes my mouth water. These delightful rolled tortillas filled with savory beef and smothered in rich red sauce are like little parcels of happiness on a plate. Growing up, my mom would whip up a batch whenever we had family gatherings; the aroma would fill the house, and we’d all gather in the kitchen to sneak bites before dinner officially started. It’s a dish that brings back such fond memories, and I can’t help but feel nostalgic every time I make it.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can swap out the beef for chicken or even make it vegetarian with beans and cheese. Not only does it please a crowd, but it also warms the heart. So, pull on your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure of making beef enchiladas together!
What’s in Beef Enchiladas?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I prefer using lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, but feel free to use a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are classic and hold up beautifully, but flour tortillas work well if that’s what you have on hand.
Enchilada Sauce: You can make your own (I have a great recipe for that!), or pick up a can of your favorite sauce from the store. I usually go for a mild red sauce to keep it friendly for everyone’s palate.
Cheese: Shredded cheese is a must! I opt for a good mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, which gives that delicious gooeyness we all crave.
Onion: Chopped onion adds a sweet oniony flavor when mixed with the beef. I like to use yellow or white onions, as they cook down nicely.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile beautifully. Trust me; don’t skip this ingredient!
Cumin: Ground cumin adds warmth and depth to the mix, making those enchiladas sing in your mouth.
Is Beef Enchiladas Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health angle. Like any good comfort food, beef enchiladas can be a bit indulgent, but they do have some redeeming qualities.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, lean ground beef can be a healthy choice when enjoyed in moderation.
Tortillas: Whole grain tortillas can boost fiber content, providing a more nutritious base. Plus, they add that satisfying chew!
Cheese: While cheese does add calcium and protein, it’s important to watch portion sizes due to its high fat content.
Overall, beef enchiladas can definitely fit into a balanced diet, especially if you complement them with a fresh salad or some sautéed veggies on the side!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound ground beef
– 8 corn or flour tortillas (6-inch)
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese (preferably cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Olive oil for cooking
– Optional toppings: sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapeños
This recipe serves about 4 people, depending on how hungry you all are!
How to Make Beef Enchiladas?
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent (about 4 minutes).
3. Add in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
4. Stir in the cumin and half of the enchilada sauce, mixing well. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. To fill the tortillas, place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center, sprinkle some cheese on top, and roll them up tightly. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
6. Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve hot and garnish with your favorite toppings!
Delicious Variations and Tips!
– Feeling adventurous? Try adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.
– For a bit of kick, toss some diced jalapeños into the filling or sprinkle them on top.
– You can also experiment with different types of cheese—Mexican blend or pepper jack can switch things up nicely!
– Leftovers? Enchiladas taste even better the next day! Just reheat in the oven and let the flavors deepen.
Now that you have this fabulous recipe at your fingertips, I hope you feel inspired to whip up a warm batch of beef enchiladas. They truly are a hug on a plate! And please, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you; share your experience and any tasty twists you make! Happy cooking!