Oh, let me tell you about the joy of cooking ground beef enchiladas! There’s something truly comforting about this hearty Tex-Mex classic. I can still remember the smell wafting through my kitchen as my mom prepared them for family gatherings. It was always a celebration when those enchiladas hit the table, everyone gathered around, eager to dig in. The combination of savory beef, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce just warms the soul, doesn’t it? I love that they’re not only satisfying but also bring everyone together. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be craving them for every occasion!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these mouthwatering ground beef enchiladas. I promise, it’s a simple list, but each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that delicious flavor!
- 1 pound ground beef: Look for a good quality beef for the best flavor. You can use lean ground beef if you prefer less fat.
- 1 onion, chopped: This adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the filling. Yellow or white onions work wonderfully!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It gives the beef mixture an aromatic boost.
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, it brings that signature Tex-Mex flavor.
- 8 corn tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and provide that authentic taste. Warm them up to make them more pliable!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Use your favorite cheese! I love a sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend for extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season your filling well! It makes all the difference.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making something truly special!
How to Prepare Ground Beef Enchiladas
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious ground beef enchiladas! I promise, this will be a breeze!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your enchiladas cook evenly and the cheese gets all melty and bubbly—yum!
Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook it all together for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Trust me, the aroma will be heavenly! After that, stir in the enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so all those flavors meld beautifully.
Prepare the Tortillas
Next, let’s warm the tortillas! In a dry skillet over low heat, warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re pliable. This step is key; it makes rolling them so much easier without tearing!
Assemble the Enchiladas
Now comes the fun part! Take a warmed tortilla, fill it with a generous spoonful of the beef mixture, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this process until all your tortillas are filled and snugly in the dish.
Bake and Serve
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Oh, and don’t forget to let them cool for a few minutes before serving! Garnish with some fresh cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole for that extra flair. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s take a closer look at the nutritional profile of these hearty ground beef enchiladas! Keep in mind that these values are estimations, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying when you dig into this delicious dish.
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This section gives you insight into the hearty goodness packed into each enchilada. With a good balance of protein and carbs, they make for a satisfying meal that’ll keep you feeling full and happy. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, let me tell you why ground beef enchiladas are a must-make in your kitchen! They’re not just delicious; they come with a whole host of benefits that make them the perfect dish for any occasion. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
- Quick Preparation: With just a bit of chopping and cooking, you can have these enchiladas ready to pop in the oven in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good enchilada! They’re a hit with kids and adults alike, making mealtime a breeze when you’re feeding the whole family.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to fit your family’s preferences. Add veggies, swap proteins, or play around with spices—make it your own!
- Satisfying Homemade Meal: Nothing beats the comfort of a homemade dish. The rich flavors and that cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Great for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch ahead of time and freeze them for later. Just bake when you’re ready and enjoy that fresh, homemade taste!
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor these fantastic enchiladas. You won’t regret it!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make these scrumptious ground beef enchiladas, let me share some pro tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time! Follow these little nuggets of wisdom, and you’ll be on your way to enchilada greatness.
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to load those tortillas up, but be careful! Overfilling can lead to messy rolls that burst open while baking. A generous spoonful is just right!
- Warm Tortillas Properly: Warming the tortillas is crucial. If they’re cold, they can crack when you roll them. Just a minute or so in a dry skillet does wonders!
- Simmer Your Sauce: After mixing the enchilada sauce with the beef mixture, let it simmer a bit longer. This helps deepen the flavors and makes the filling even more delicious.
- Experiment with Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar, try mixing different cheeses like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy kick! Cheese is all about personal preference.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, allow the enchiladas to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set up a bit and makes serving easier without them falling apart.
- Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado can elevate your enchiladas. It adds brightness and freshness that balances the richness!
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, prep your enchiladas in advance and store them in the fridge for a couple of days or freeze them. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat!
With these tips, you’re set for success! I can’t wait for you to enjoy these hearty, flavorful enchiladas. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about ground beef enchiladas is how versatile they are! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or get creative with what you have on hand. Here are some fun and delicious variations to try:
- Vegetable-Packed: Add some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. They’ll add a nice pop of color too!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. You could even use a spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick!
- Chicken or Turkey: Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken or ground turkey for a lighter option. Both work wonderfully and soak up the flavors beautifully!
- Black Beans: Mix in some black beans for added protein and fiber. They not only enhance the filling but also make it more filling and hearty.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends! Try using pepper jack for a spicy twist or a creamy queso blanco for a milder flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Don’t be afraid to get creative with herbs! Adding fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of oregano can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Southwestern Flair: Add corn, diced green chilies, or even a touch of barbecue sauce to give your enchiladas a fun Southwestern flair!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get adventurous and mix in your favorite ingredients. The beauty of enchiladas is that they can be tailored to your liking while still delivering that comforting, hearty goodness. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some delicious ground beef enchiladas left over? No worries! Storing and reheating them properly will keep that savory goodness alive for your next meal!
First off, let your enchiladas cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. You can also cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if you prefer to store them that way. They should be good in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them!
To freeze, wrap each enchilada individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months this way. Just make sure to label your containers with the date so you know when you made them!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover enchiladas, here’s how to reheat them:
- From the refrigerator: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent them from drying out, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- From the freezer: You can either thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or bake them straight from the freezer. If you’re baking from frozen, it’ll take about 25-30 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they’re heated all the way through!
- Microwave option: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them! Just place one or two enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes or until hot. Just be careful, as they can get steamy!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy those hearty enchiladas whenever you like, making them not just a meal but a delightful treat that keeps on giving!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making these delicious ground beef enchiladas? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my best answers to help you out.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the filling and assemble the enchiladas a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the oven, and they’ll be just as delicious!
What sides pair well with ground beef enchiladas?
Oh, so many options! I love serving my enchiladas with a fresh side salad, some zesty Mexican rice, or refried beans. You could also whip up some homemade guacamole or a corn salad for a refreshing touch!
Can I freeze the enchiladas before baking?
You bet! Just assemble the enchiladas and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing. They can last up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, or bake them straight from the freezer—just add a bit of extra time to the baking!
So there you have it! If you have more questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!
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Ground beef enchiladas: 7 savory secrets to savoring bliss
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Ground beef enchiladas are a hearty Tex-Mex classic worth savoring.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned.
- Add the enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and roll them up.
- Place the rolled tortillas in a baking dish, seam side down.
- Top with remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add diced green chilies to the beef mixture.
- Serve with sour cream and guacamole.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef enchiladas, Tex-Mex, hearty, classic
