Ground Beef Enchiladas are a fun and tasty dish! They are made with seasoned ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, then smothered in rich red sauce and melted cheese. Yum!
Making these enchiladas is a blast! I love loading them up with toppings like sour cream and avocado. Who knew that Mexican food could be this easy? Let’s dig in!
The best part is how quick they are to prepare. Just roll up the beef, sauce them up, and let the oven do the work. They’re always a hit at my dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken. I personally love using lean ground beef for that nice beefy flavor without too much fat.
Onion and Garlic: Both add essential flavor to your enchiladas. Red or white onions can work in place of yellow ones, and if you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick substitute—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Enchilada Sauce: A key for seasoning and moisture! If you can’t find canned enchilada sauce, try using salsa instead. You can also make your own sauce if you’re up for it, using tomato sauce with spices like cumin and chili powder.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can use flour tortillas if that’s what you have. They might make for a softer texture which is great for those who prefer it. I find warming them makes them much easier to handle!
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack offer a great combo of flavors and melt well. If you want to switch it up, pepper jack adds a spicy kick or you can go dairy-free with vegan cheese.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Just Right?
Getting your ground beef just right is crucial for delicious enchiladas. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps to sear the meat, enhancing its flavor.
- Add the onions before the beef for extra flavor. They can soften up while your meat cooks.
- Break up the beef as it cooks. This ensures even browning and helps to eliminate clumps.
- Cook until fully browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess grease to avoid soggy enchiladas.
Taking these steps will give you a nicely cooked beef filling that holds up well inside the tortillas!<\/p>
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Enchiladas:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 50 minutes. You’ll have perfectly baked enchiladas ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when the enchiladas are ready to bake.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft and translucent. If there’s any extra grease in the pan, carefully drain it off.
3. Add Flavor:
Stir in the enchilada sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, and some salt and pepper. Let this simmer on low for about 5 minutes to combine all those delicious flavors.
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
In another pan, lightly warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re flexible. This will make it easier to roll up your enchiladas without tearing them.
5. Roll the Enchiladas:
Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly but aren’t overcrowded.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour any leftover enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas. Then sprinkle both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses generously on top. Yum!
7. Bake the Enchiladas:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Finishing Touches:
Once done, carefully take the enchiladas out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with your chopped cilantro for that fresh flavor and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you want a leaner option. The cooking time will be similar, just make sure to season it well since these meats are typically milder in flavor. Also, consider adding a bit more chili powder or some smoked paprika for extra depth!
What if I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No problem! You can substitute with flour tortillas, though they may change the texture slightly. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas, or you can even consider using large lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative.
How Can I Make These Enchiladas Vegetarian?
To make these enchiladas vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Ensure you use a vegetable-based enchilada sauce to keep it entirely meat-free!
How to Store Leftover Enchiladas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, or for the best texture, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to avoid drying out.
