Ground Beef Enchiladas
Introduction
Looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare for the family? Ground Beef Enchiladas might just be the ideal recipe for your next dinner. Packed with flavorful ingredients and wrapped in soft tortillas, these enchiladas bring together the perfect combination of savory beef, cheese, and seasonings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a great addition to your cooking repertoire. Let’s dive into the details of making this simple, satisfying dish.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Ground Beef
1 pound
Enchilada Sauce
2 cups
Shredded Cheese
2 cups
Small Flour Tortillas
8 to 10
Diced Onion
1 small
Minced Garlic
2 cloves
Ground Cumin
1 teaspoon
Chili Powder
1 teaspoon
Oil
1 tablespoon
Prep Time
Preparing the Ground Beef Enchiladas will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, you’ll saute the onions and garlic, cook the ground beef, and add the spices, ensuring the meat is perfectly seasoned. As you prepare the tortillas and filling, you’ll also have the opportunity to preheat your oven, making prep time efficient and straightforward.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this dish is around 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together in the oven. With a total time of 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal. The yield typically serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes, making it a fantastic option for families or small gatherings. Enjoy these cheesy, flavorful Ground Beef Enchiladas for your next meal!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and water as directed on the seasoning packet. Simmer until the liquid is mostly evaporated.
5. Remove from heat and set the ground beef mixture aside.
Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
1. If using canned enchilada sauce, ensure it is ready for use.
2. Alternatively, prepare homemade enchilada sauce if preferred.
Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Assemble the Enchiladas
1. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray.
2. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce along the bottom of the dish.
3. Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
4. Place a spoonful of the ground beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
5. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
6. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down into the prepared baking dish.
7. Repeat with all the tortillas until the baking dish is full.
Top the Enchiladas
1. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they are thoroughly covered.
2. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously over the top.
Bake the Enchiladas
1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or sour cream.
3. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Note on Spices
– Adjust the level of spice in the dish by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce and taco seasoning.
Note on Tortillas
– Both flour and corn tortillas can be used. Corn tortillas may need to be warmed slightly longer to prevent cracking while rolling.
Note on Cheese
– Using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack, can enhance the flavor of the dish.
Note on Freezing
– These enchiladas can be prepared ahead and frozen before baking. To bake from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 30-40 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until heated through.
Note on Adjustments
– Feel free to customize the filling with cooked beans, rice, or sautéed vegetables for added variety.
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Cook Techniques
How to Prepare the Ground Beef
Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon, cooking until it’s browned evenly. Drain off any excess grease to avoid a soggy filling.
Seasoning the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, add your seasoning mixture. Stir it in to ensure that the spices are distributed evenly throughout the meat for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Warming the Tortillas
To make the tortillas easier to roll, warm them slightly in a skillet for a few seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20–30 seconds.
Rolling the Enchiladas
Place a portion of the seasoned beef mixture along the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish to keep it secure during cooking.
Topping with Sauce and Cheese
After positioning the rolled tortillas in the baking dish, pour your preferred enchilada sauce evenly over them. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously across the top for a melted, bubbly topping.
Baking the Enchiladas
Bake the enchiladas in a preheated oven until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning and ensure they are heated through.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, store-bought enchilada sauce works perfectly for this recipe. You can choose mild, medium, or spicy depending on your preference.
Can I substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if desired. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste will slightly differ.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice, customize the seasoning in your ground beef or use a spicier or milder enchilada sauce.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas earlier and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze them. Assemble the enchiladas without baking, wrap the dish tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.
What toppings go well with enchiladas?
Top with sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced onions, or avocado slices to enhance the flavors and presentation.
Can I use other types of meat?
Certainly, ground chicken, turkey, or shredded beef can be used as alternatives to ground beef.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, lightly greasing the baking dish prevents the enchiladas from sticking to the bottom and makes serving easier.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Enchiladas stand out as a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the perfect combination of textures and tastes. It’s a versatile meal that works for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite at your table. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Enchiladas
Swap the ground beef with shredded chicken for a lighter alternative with just as much flavor.
Vegetarian Enchiladas
Use a combination of black beans, corn, and diced vegetables for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Turn your love for Mexican-style dishes into cheesy, crispy quesadillas that are easy to make and enjoy.
Mexican Rice
Serve your enchiladas with homemade Mexican rice for the ultimate side dish pairing.
Loaded Nachos
Use similar flavors and toppings from the enchiladas to create a batch of mouthwatering loaded nachos.
Taco Soup
Enjoy the comfort of a warm bowl of taco soup featuring similar seasonings to complement any Mexican dish.
