Ground Beef Enchiladas

Introduction

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your dining table. They are easy to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering. These enchiladas are filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with rich red sauce and melted cheese, providing a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Ground Beef: 1 pound
– Onion (chopped): 1 medium
– Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
– Enchilada sauce: 2 cups
– Corn tortillas: 12
– Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
– Cumin: 1 teaspoon
– Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for the enchiladas once assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat after cooking.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Prepare Tortillas

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable for rolling.

Step 5: Assemble Enchiladas

Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take one tortilla, fill it with the ground beef mixture and some shredded cheese, then roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this step for all tortillas.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once all enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the rest of the enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, chopped cilantro, or any other desired toppings.

Notes

Note 1: Ground Beef Alternatives

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option if preferred.

Note 2: Tortilla Choices

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas can be used as a substitute if you prefer.

Note 3: Spice Level

Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot taco seasoning according to your taste.

Note 4: Storage

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Cooking Ground Beef

Cooking ground beef requires browning it in a skillet over medium-high heat. It’s important to break it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Drain excess fat after browning to keep the dish from being greasy.

Preparing Enchilada Sauce

Homemade enchilada sauce can be made by simmering tomatoes, chili powder, garlic, and other spices together. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a rich, savory sauce for your enchiladas.

Assembling Enchiladas

To assemble enchiladas, place a generous amount of filling in the center of a tortilla, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. This technique ensures that the filling stays secure during baking.

Baking Enchiladas

Bake enchiladas in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cover the dish with foil initially to prevent over-browning, then remove the foil in the last few minutes for a golden top.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for enchiladas?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even beans for a vegetarian option.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the enchilada sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

How can I make enchiladas spicier?

To add more heat, include additional chili powder, jalapeños, or use spicy enchilada sauce.

Can I freeze enchiladas?

Yes, enchiladas can be assembled and frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and they will last for up to three months.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat enchiladas in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until warmed through. This helps retain moisture and prevents them from drying out.

Conclusion

The ground beef enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines savory flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe not only pleases the palate but also allows for creative variations. With a blend of textures from the tortillas and fillings, topped with a rich sauce and melted cheese, these enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your household.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chicken Enchiladas

Try substituting the ground beef with shredded chicken for a lighter yet equally flavorful option.

Vegetarian Enchiladas

For a meat-free version, use a mix of beans, cheese, and vegetables such as spinach and bell peppers.

Seafood Enchiladas

Swap the ground beef for shrimp or crab, and enhance with a creamy white sauce for a coastal twist.

Spicy Enchiladas

Add jalapeños or your choice of hot sauce to the beef filling for extra heat and flavor.

Breakfast Enchiladas

Use scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese as fillings for a delicious breakfast option, perfect with a side of salsa.

Enchilada Casserole

Layer tortillas, meat, cheese, and sauce in a baking dish instead of rolling them for a quick and easy casserole.

Tex-Mex Enchiladas

Incorporate Mexican spices and serve with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.