Ground Beef Enchiladas: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Ground Beef Enchiladas: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that culminates in a symphony of savory flavors! Imagine tender, seasoned ground beef embraced by warm, soft tortillas, smothered in a rich, homemade enchilada sauce, and blanketed with melted cheese. Are you drooling yet? This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a comforting hug on a plate that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Enchiladas, a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, boast a history as vibrant and layered as their flavors. Originating from ancient Mayan traditions of wrapping food in tortillas, enchiladas have evolved over centuries, incorporating influences from Spanish colonization and regional culinary innovations. They represent a beautiful fusion of cultures and a testament to the enduring power of simple, wholesome ingredients.

What makes Ground Beef Enchiladas so universally beloved? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the soft tortillas, the hearty beef, the gooey cheese – all harmonizing in a single bite. The robust, savory flavor profile is undeniably satisfying, and the customizable nature of the dish allows you to tailor it to your specific preferences. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy families seeking a delicious and fulfilling meal. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 1 (28 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions

Preparing the Ground Beef Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the onion to become translucent and slightly golden.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned, making sure to crumble it well. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy final product.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the ground beef mixture.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.

Warming the Tortillas

Warming the tortillas is an essential step to prevent them from cracking when you roll them. There are several ways to do this:

1. Microwave Method: Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until they are pliable.
2. Oven Method: Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
3. Skillet Method: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for a few seconds per side, until softened. Be careful not to burn them.

Assembling the Enchiladas

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the enchiladas from sticking to the bottom.
2. Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will help keep the enchiladas moist and flavorful.
3. One at a time, dip each tortilla into the enchilada sauce, coating both sides. This step is important for adding flavor and preventing the tortillas from drying out during baking.
4. Place a spoonful of the ground beef mixture into the center of each tortilla. Don’t overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to roll.
5. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the ground beef. I like to use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
6. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the enchiladas snugly in the dish.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 until all the tortillas are filled and rolled.
8. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Make sure all the enchiladas are covered in sauce.
9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the enchiladas. This will create a delicious, cheesy topping.

Baking the Enchiladas

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the enchiladas moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Bake for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through. The cheese should be lightly browned.
4. Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent them from falling apart when you try to serve them.

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef enchiladas are delicious on their own, but they are even better with your favorite toppings. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy contrast to the rich enchiladas.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a classic topping for enchiladas.
• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright and herbaceous flavor.
• Sliced green onions: Green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Diced tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add a juicy and refreshing element.
• Shredded lettuce: Shredded lettuce adds a crisp and refreshing texture.
• Hot sauce: If you like a little extra heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

Tips and Variations

Spice it up!

If you like your enchiladas spicy, add more cayenne pepper to the ground beef filling, or use a spicier enchilada sauce.

Add beans!

For a heartier meal, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans to the ground beef filling.

Use different cheese!

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese would add a nice kick, or you could use a Mexican cheese blend.

Make it vegetarian!

To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu.

Make ahead!

You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Freezing Instructions!

To freeze enchiladas, assemble them as directed, but do not bake. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Corn vs. Flour Tortillas!

This recipe calls for corn tortillas, which are traditional for enchiladas. However, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Flour tortillas are more pliable and easier to roll, but they don’t have the same authentic flavor as corn tortillas. If using flour tortillas, you may not need to warm them as much, as they are already quite soft.

Homemade Enchilada Sauce!

While canned enchilada sauce is convenient, homemade enchilada sauce is incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. There are many recipes available online, and it’s a great way to customize the flavor to your liking.

Preventing Soggy Enchiladas!

To prevent soggy enchiladas, avoid overfilling the tortillas and be sure to drain off any excess grease from the ground beef. Also, don’t overbake the enchiladas, as this can cause the tortillas to become mushy.

Serving with Sides!

Enchiladas are a complete meal on their own, but they are also delicious served with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Ground Beef Enchiladas are more than just a meal; they’re a fiesta in every bite, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious, relatively easy, and incredibly satisfying dinner option. The combination of savory ground beef, flavorful sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible.

But why should you make *this* enchilada recipe? Because it’s adaptable! It’s forgiving! And most importantly, it’s absolutely delicious. I’ve spent years tweaking and perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that it will become a staple in your household, just like it is in mine. The beauty of these enchiladas lies in their versatility. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking – add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick, or use a milder enchilada sauce if you prefer a more subtle flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve these enchiladas with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a side of my homemade guacamole. A simple side salad with a lime vinaigrette also complements the richness of the enchiladas perfectly. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of Mexican rice and refried beans.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped bell peppers, onions, or corn to the ground beef mixture. You could also substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Vegetarian? No problem! Simply replace the meat with black beans, pinto beans, or a mixture of your favorite vegetables. You can even use different types of cheese – Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend all work wonderfully.

Make it Your Own!

The possibilities are endless! The key is to have fun and make these enchiladas your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. After all, cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and these enchiladas are the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect meal for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Share Your Experience!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen. Once you’ve made these Ground Beef Enchiladas, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please feel free to share your photos, comments, and variations in the comments section below. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you make any substitutions? I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how you’ve put your own spin on my recipes. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!

---