Introduction
These Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are a weeknight dinner dream come true! With a rich and flavorful filling encased in soft, warm tortillas, smothered in zesty enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese, every bite is a delicious journey through Tex-Mex heaven. Perfect for families or a cozy night in, this recipe comes together swiftly and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and succulent. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the spices to mingle for an additional 2 minutes, enhancing the beef’s flavor.
- In a separate bowl, combine half of the red enchilada sauce with half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to create a luscious filling.
- Spread a small amount of the remaining enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the enchiladas don’t stick.
- For each tortilla, place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture and a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center. Roll them up tightly and nestle them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Once all tortillas are snugly in the dish, pour the remaining red enchilada sauce over the top, then generously sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, filling your home with mouthwatering scents.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh cilantro if desired, and prepare to serve up a plate of happiness!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings—sour cream, avocado, or even jalapeños can take these enchiladas to the next level! If you’re looking for extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. Additionally, these enchiladas can easily be made ahead of time; assemble and refrigerate before baking for a quick dinner option!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases a few simple yet effective cooking techniques. Sautéing the onion and garlic not only builds flavor but also enhances the overall dish. Rolling the tortillas tightly ensures a better texture once baked, while layering the sauce in the dish helps keep everything moist and full of flavor. Baking until golden allows the cheese to become perfectly melted and creates that irresistible crust!
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
No problem at all! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative and will taste just as delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze enchiladas?
Absolutely! Freezing before baking is the best option. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Simply thaw and bake when you’re ready!
Conclusion
Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas make for a delightful and satisfying meal that’s certain to impress family and friends. With layers of flavor, a cheesy filling, and a vibrant sauce, this dish is an all-time favorite that’s quick to prepare. So gather your ingredients, cozy up in your kitchen, and let this recipe bring a little bit of joy to your dinner table!