Your favorite ground beef enchiladas just got a mouthwatering makeover! This recipe not only brings together the comforting layers of flavor that enchiladas are known for but also adds a few twists to make it even more delightful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy night in, these enchiladas are sure to impress your family and friends.
If you’ve been on the internet lately, you’ve probably seen ground beef enchiladas taking over your feeds everywhere – and for good reason. Picture this: warm tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, smothered in a rich, savory sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It’s a dish that offers both nostalgia and excitement, reminding us of family gatherings and the joy of comfort food. enchilada sauce Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To make these delicious ground beef enchiladas, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what goes into creating this satisfying dish:
- 1 pound ground beef – for a juicy filling, opt for beef with a bit of fat, around 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio.
- 1 cup diced onions – sweet onions work well to balance the spices.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor.
- 1 cup taco seasoning – store-bought or homemade, this is essential for flavor.
- 10 small corn or flour tortillas – choose your favorite; both work beautifully.
- 2 cups enchilada sauce – homemade or canned; the choice is yours!
- 2 cups shredded cheese – a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – for garnish and added freshness.
- Sour cream – for serving, this adds a creamy contrast to the spicy enchiladas.
Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to walk through the steps to create these mouthwatering ground beef enchiladas: taco seasoning
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a crispy top when baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and about half of the enchilada sauce. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Warm the tortillas in a microwave for about 30 seconds or until soft and pliable. This will make them easier to roll.
- Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Once all tortillas are filled and in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, covering all the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped cilantro. Serve with sour cream on the side.
Variations
What else can I add to this ground beef enchiladas? You can absolutely play around with various elements while keeping the Mexican vibe intact. Here are a few ideas to customize your enchiladas:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a layer of cheese inside the tortillas along with the meat for an extra gooey texture.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce with the beef for an added heat.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different types of sauce such as verde (green sauce) for a unique flavor.
- Seafood Twist: Try shrimp or crab meat as a filling for a seafood variation of enchiladas.
Serving Suggestions
What can I serve with these ground beef enchiladas? Pairing your enchiladas with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious suggestions:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the savory enchiladas.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
- Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole provides a creamy counterbalance to the heat of the enchiladas.
- Salsa: A fresh pico de gallo or a tangy salsa verde can brighten the dish.
- Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for a crunch and an additional snacking option.
Tips & Tricks
To ensure your ground beef enchiladas turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips: Crockpot Turkey Chili
- Soft Tortillas: Warming the tortillas prevents them from cracking when rolling. You can also dip them briefly in hot oil for added flavor.
- Mixing Sauces: Combine red and green enchilada sauces for a unique flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the enchiladas a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking them just before serving.
- Freezing: These enchiladas freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas to prevent them from bursting during baking.
FAQ
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.
Q: How do I make homemade enchilada sauce? A: Combine tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, simmering until thickened.
Q: Can I make these enchiladas gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Use corn tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
Ground beef enchiladas are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and comfort. This recipe is easy to adapt to your taste and preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy family dinner, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and you might find they become a staple in your home as they have in mine!
Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas
Warm tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, smothered in a rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese. This comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
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1 cup diced onions
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup taco seasoning
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10 small corn or flour tortillas
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2 cups enchilada sauce
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2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
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Sour cream
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned. Add onions and garlic.
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Stir in taco seasoning and half of the enchilada sauce. Simmer.
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Warm tortillas, spoon beef mixture onto each, roll up tightly, and place in a baking dish.
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Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
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Garnish with cilantro, cool slightly, and serve with sour cream.
