Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Introduction
Discovering new flavors and easy-to-make recipes is always a joy, especially when it comes to comforting dishes like enchiladas. The recipe for Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas is a classic choice to bring homemade Tex-Mex flavors to your table without much hassle. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or to impress guests with a hearty, flavorful meal. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet taco seasoning mix
– 1/2 cup water
– 10-12 soft flour or corn tortillas
– 2 cups enchilada sauce
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– Optional: Green onions and fresh cilantro for garnish
Prep Time
Preparing this recipe doesn’t take long! You’ll need around 10-15 minutes to get everything ready and assembled. The simplicity of ingredients and steps makes this a no-fuss dish, even for beginners.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes in the oven is all it takes to bake these enchiladas to perfection, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully and everything is heated through.
Total Time: From prep to table, this recipe takes about 35-40 minutes altogether. Ideal for a quick family dinner!
Yield: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on portion sizes and appetites. They’re so delicious you may want to make extra just in case!
Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the rich, bold flavors of Mexican cuisine at home. By using just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to complete the meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking. This will give the enchiladas a perfectly baked texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
– Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it into pieces, until it browns evenly. This step typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
– Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Season the Ground Beef
– Stir in taco seasoning and mix thoroughly with the cooked beef.
– Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet to help distribute the seasoning evenly. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning blends in.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
– Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
– Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking and enhance the flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
– Place a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
– Add about 2-3 tablespoons of the ground beef mixture near the center of the tortilla.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture to taste.
– Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat for all the remaining tortillas.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese
– Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled-up tortillas in the baking dish. Ensure that every tortilla is covered.
– Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the sauce for a cheesy finish.
Step 7: Bake the Enchiladas
– Place the prepared baking dish in the preheated oven.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 8: Let Cool and Serve
– Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the enchiladas cool for 5-10 minutes. This ensures easier serving and allows the flavors to settle.
– Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or any desired toppings before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Tortilla Options
You can use either flour or corn tortillas based on your preference. Corn tortillas provide a more authentic flavor, while flour tortillas are easier to roll.
Note 2: Cheese Choices
Feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work particularly well.
Note 3: Storing the Enchiladas
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Note 4: Freezing Option
Unbaked enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil before freezing. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Note 5: Additional Toppings
Recommended toppings include salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños to customize your dish.
Cook techniques
Browning the Ground Beef
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Ensure it’s cooked evenly and fully browned before removing it from the heat.
Seasoning the Meat
Mix seasonings into the browned ground beef to infuse flavor thoroughly. Stir well for even distribution, ensuring the spices coat the meat.
Preparing the Tortillas
Warm the tortillas briefly to make them pliable, either using a skillet, microwave, or oven. This helps prevent cracking when rolling the enchiladas.
Rolling the Enchiladas
Spoon the seasoned meat into the center of each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Maintain consistent rolling to ensure even cooking.
Adding the Sauce and Cheese
Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one is coated for optimal flavor. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.
Baking
Bake the prepared enchiladas in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle.
FAQ
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if you prefer. Keep in mind that traditional enchiladas often use corn tortillas.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the enchiladas in advance and refrigerate them. Bake when ready to serve and adjust the baking time if necessary.
Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?
Yes, leftover enchiladas can be frozen. Store them in an airtight container, and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
What can I serve with ground beef enchiladas?
These enchiladas pair well with rice, beans, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork, depending on your taste preference.
How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?
Warming the tortillas before filling and rolling them helps prevent cracking. Choose fresh tortillas for the best results.
How long should I bake the enchiladas?
Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, typically around 20 minutes at 375°F. Always check to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Ground beef enchiladas are a satisfying, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re sharing these enchiladas during a weeknight dinner or serving them for a special occasion, their cheesy, savory goodness will leave everyone at the table happy and full. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comfort of this classic dish!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Enchiladas
Switch beef with chicken to create a lighter yet equally savory enchilada dish. Season your chicken with spices before filling the tortillas for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas
Swap out meat for a filling made of black beans, roasted vegetables, and cheese. This is a great option for vegetarians or when you want a wholesome, plant-based version.
Beef and Potato Enchiladas
Mix diced, cooked potatoes with your ground beef for a heartier enchilada variation. This mash-up creates a comforting and filling meal.
Spicy Chorizo Enchiladas
Replace ground beef with spicy chorizo sausage for extra heat and smoky flavor. Balance the spice with a layer of sour cream or guacamole.
Breakfast Enchiladas
Transform enchiladas into a breakfast dish by filling the tortillas with scrambled eggs, sausage, and melted cheese, then topping them with a mild salsa.
Cheesy Enchilada Casserole
Layer tortillas, seasoned beef, and cheese in a casserole dish for a creative twist. Bake everything together for a warm, gooey dish perfect for family dinners.
Shredded Beef Enchiladas
Use slow-cooked shredded beef instead of ground beef for a tender, rich flavor profile. Add a smoky enchilada sauce to tie the dish together.
Pulled Pork Enchiladas
Fill your tortillas with smoky, tender pulled pork and tangy barbecue sauce for a unique, Southern-inspired enchilada twist.
Seafood Enchiladas
For a refreshing variation, fill tortillas with shrimp, crab, or a mix of your favorite seafood, and top with a creamy, tangy sauce.
Enchilada Stuffed Bell Peppers
Skip the tortillas and use hollowed-out bell peppers as a vessel for your ground beef enchilada filling. Bake them for a healthier twist and an added vegetable boost.
