Beef Enchiladas Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal, look no further than this beef enchiladas recipe! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend fiesta, or any time you want to spice up your dinner routine. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delicious recipe at home.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 8 flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.

3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

5. Spread a spoonful of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top with a handful of shredded cheese and roll up tightly. Place the enchiladas seam side down in a baking dish.

6. Pour any remaining beef mixture over the top of the enchiladas. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.

7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the beef and use black beans or refried beans instead. You can also add some sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef. You can also use a combination of both.
• Seafood: Swap the beef for cooked shrimp or crab meat. You can also add some diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
• Vegan: Use vegan cheese and skip the meat. You can also add some roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a filling and flavorful vegan enchilada.

Tips

• You can make the beef filling ahead of time and assemble the enchiladas just before baking. You can also freeze the assembled enchiladas for later.
• Serve the enchiladas with some Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili powder, cumin, or paprika.

Now that you know how to make beef enchiladas, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe is easy, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy!

FAQ

What type of beef should I use for beef enchiladas?

You can use any type of beef for beef enchiladas, but we recommend using ground beef or shredded beef for the best results.

Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can make beef enchiladas ahead of time. Simply assemble the enchiladas, cover with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add additional baking time if the enchiladas are cold when you put them in the oven.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for beef enchiladas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for beef enchiladas. However, corn tortillas are more traditional and will give the enchiladas a more authentic flavor.

What type of cheese should I use for beef enchiladas?

You can use any type of cheese for beef enchiladas, but we recommend using a Mexican cheese such as queso fresco, cotija, or Monterey Jack.

Can I use canned enchilada sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use canned enchilada sauce instead of making your own. However, making your own sauce will give the enchiladas a fresher and more authentic flavor.

How can I make beef enchiladas spicier?

You can make beef enchiladas spicier by adding more chili powder, cumin, or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicier cheese such as pepper jack or add diced jalapenos to the filling.

Can I freeze beef enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze beef enchiladas. Simply assemble the enchiladas, cover with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I make beef enchiladas without cheese?

Yes, you can make beef enchiladas without cheese. Simply omit the cheese from the recipe or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Can I add vegetables to beef enchiladas?

Yes, you can add vegetables to beef enchiladas. Diced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes are all great additions to the beef filling.

How long should I bake beef enchiladas?

You should bake beef enchiladas for 20-25 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.