Hello there, foodies! Are you always on the lookout for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe that will satisfy your taste buds without kicking your butt in the kitchen? Well, look no further because I’ve got just the thing for you. Today, I’m going to share with you my mouthwatering beef enchilada recipe that is sure to sizzle up your dinner and leave you craving for more.
Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that has been enjoyed by many for centuries. They are made by wrapping a tortilla around a delicious filling, then smothering it in a savory sauce and baking it until it’s bubbling and golden brown. My beef enchilada recipe adds a little twist to this classic dish by using ground beef instead of the traditional chicken or beef chunks. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Amazing Beef Enchilada Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking for a tasty and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family dinner or a party with friends – then this beef enchilada recipe is definitely worth a try. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Ingredients
To make this delicious beef enchilada recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 10-12 flour tortillas (8 inches each)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for a few more minutes until the onion is tender.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute or until fragrant.
5. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and green chilies to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Spread a small amount of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla and roll up tightly, placing seam side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Pour the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas, covering all of them evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef mixture.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the beef enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
13. Enjoy!
Wrapping Up:
If you’re in the mood for something delicious and comforting, try making this amazing beef enchilada recipe. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try for your next meal and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Tips and Tricks
Choosing the Right Beef
When it comes to making beef enchiladas, choosing the right beef is crucial to ensure the dish turns out flavorful and tender. To start, it is recommended to opt for beef chuck or beef brisket as they are the best cuts of beef for slow cooking and will result in tender and juicy meat. These cuts contain more marbling (fat within the meat) which melts during cooking, giving the beef extra moisture and flavor.
When selecting the beef, look for a bright red color and avoid any cuts that have brown spots as it indicates it has been exposed to air for too long. Also, choose cuts that are nicely marbled but not too fatty. The fat should be evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Another important factor in choosing the right beef is the thickness of the cut. It is recommended to buy beef slices that are not too thick or too thin. Slices that are too thin can dry out easily while slices that are too thick may not cook through completely. Aim for slices that are about 1 inch thick for the best results.
Adjusting the Spice Level
Beef enchiladas are well-known for their bold and spicy flavors. However, the level of spiciness can be adjusted to meet your personal taste. If you prefer a mild version, use less chili powder or opt for a milder variety such as paprika. On the other hand, if you prefer your beef enchiladas extra spicy, you can add jalapenos or a spicier variety of chili powder.
Another way to control the spice level is by controlling the amount of seasoning. Take note of the ingredients used and gradually add or reduce the amount of seasoning as needed. This way, you can ensure that the spice level is just right for your taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
Beef enchiladas are a filling and satisfying dish on their own, but they can be served with various side dishes to complement the flavors. One popular side dish is Mexican rice, which can be cooked and served alongside the beef enchiladas. The rice will help balance out the spiciness of the beef, creating a perfect match.
Another popular side dish is a simple side salad which can be composed of mixed greens, some ripe tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of lime juice. The salad will brighten up the dish and offer a refreshing break from the spiciness of the beef.
To garnish the beef enchiladas, you can sprinkle some chopped cilantro or fresh parsley on top. Alternatively, you could add a dollop of sour cream and some sliced jalapenos for a more eye-catching presentation.
In conclusion, beef enchiladas can be slightly adjusted to meet various tastes and preferences. It’s all about choosing the right beef that is flavorful and tender, adjusting the spice level to your preference, and serving them with suitable side dishes to complement the flavors and refresh your palate.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
If you are looking for a vegetarian option for beef enchiladas, don’t worry because there are many delicious alternatives to meat that you can use. One of the best options is to replace the beef with beans or lentils. You can either use canned beans or cook dried beans or lentils. Use the same seasoning and cook the beans or lentils until they are tender. You can either mash the beans or lentils or leave them whole. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to the filling for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
If you are a fan of cheese, you can also add shredded cheese to the filling or sprinkle it on top of the enchiladas before baking. Alternatively, you can make a delicious cheese sauce to pour over the enchiladas. Simply melt some cheese in a saucepan and add some milk and spices to it. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Pour the sauce over the enchiladas and bake them in the oven until they are hot and bubbly.
Using Leftovers
If you have some leftover beef enchiladas, there are many ways to use them in a new dish. One idea is to chop up the enchiladas and use them as a filling for a breakfast burrito. Simply scramble some eggs, add the chopped enchiladas, and wrap the mixture in a tortilla. You can also add some cheese, salsa, and sour cream to the burrito for extra flavor.
Another idea is to use the leftover enchiladas as a topping for a loaded nacho plate. Simply lay some tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top them with the chopped enchiladas, and sprinkle some cheese on top. Bake the nachos in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve them with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Alternative Sauces
While traditional red enchilada sauce is delicious, there are many alternative sauces that you can use to add variety to your beef enchiladas. One option is to use green enchilada sauce, which is made with tomatillos, green chilies, and cilantro. The sauce has a tangy and fresh flavor that pairs well with beef.
If you are a fan of spicy food, you can also make a chipotle sauce to use with your enchiladas. Simply puree chipotles in adobo sauce with some tomatoes, onions, and spices. The sauce has a smoky and spicy flavor that complements the richness of the beef.
If you want to try something completely different, you can also make a white enchilada sauce. The sauce is made with chicken broth, garlic, flour, and cream. It has a rich and creamy flavor that goes well with beef and vegetables.
Overall, there are many ways to customize beef enchiladas to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you are a vegetarian, looking to use leftovers, or want to try different sauces, there is no shortage of delicious options to choose from.
Happy Cooking!
We hope that our mouthwatering beef enchilada recipe has sparked some culinary inspiration and will encourage you to get creative in the kitchen. Remember, cooking should be fun and experimental, so don’t be afraid to try new things and add your own twists to the recipe.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article and we hope it has left you feeling hungry and excited to get cooking. We’ll be back soon with even more delicious recipes, so be sure to visit our website again to see what we have in store. Until then, happy cooking and enjoy your sizzling beef enchiladas!
FAQ
1. Can I use ground beef instead of shredded beef?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a great substitution for shredded beef in this recipe.
2. How long will the beef enchiladas keep in the fridge?
Beef enchiladas will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze leftover beef enchiladas?
Yes! Beef enchiladas freeze well and can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Do I have to use corn tortillas?
No, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer.
5. Can I make the beef enchiladas in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef enchiladas in advance and bake them when you’re ready to serve them.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
7. Should I use a mild or spicy enchilada sauce?
It depends on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild enchilada sauce. If you like it spicy, use hot enchilada sauce.
8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with black beans or tofu for a vegetarian option.
9. What should I serve with beef enchiladas?
Rice, beans, and a side salad are great options to serve alongside beef enchiladas.
10. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso fresco are all delicious options.