You’ll love the warmth and comfort of beef enchiladas with red sauce. This delightful dish brings together savory beef, rich flavors, and a tantalizing sauce that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. These enchiladas are versatile, making them a perfect option for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Let’s dive into why they stand out, and how you can make them at home.
Why We Love This Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Beef enchiladas with red sauce offer a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that excite the palate. The tender beef filling wraps snugly in soft tortillas, and the zesty red sauce adds a burst of flavor with every bite. You can customize the filling and toppings, making it a family favorite. This dish is not only delicious but also satisfying and filling, which makes it perfect for any meal. The ease of preparation allows you to whip them up quickly while still delivering a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the meat mixture with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave to make them pliable. This prevents them from tearing when rolling.
- Take a tortilla and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Sprinkle with cheese, then roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Place the enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
- Pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and starts to bubble.
- Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
To serve your beef enchiladas with red sauce, place them on a platter or individual plates. You can garnish them with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy touch that complements the spiciness of the enchiladas. You might also consider serving them with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad to complete the meal. For extra flavor, offer lime wedges to squeeze over the top. This presentation not only looks appealing but also allows guests to customize their plates based on their preferences.
Expert Tips for Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Creating the perfect beef enchiladas with red sauce takes a few extra tricks to enhance flavor and texture. First, consider using a mix of beef and shredded chicken for a delicious twist on the filling. This adds depth and variety. Also, ensure your red sauce is at room temperature before pouring it over the enchiladas; this helps the cheese melt more evenly. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies to the beef mixture. You can also experiment with various cheese types for different flavors, such as pepper jack for a creamy heat. Finally, allow the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking, helping them set so they hold their shape when served.
How to Store Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Storing leftover beef enchiladas with red sauce is simple. Once they have cooled completely, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer them to an airtight container for added protection. Store the leftover enchiladas in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, wrap each enchilada individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Variations of Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
You can easily switch things up with beef enchiladas with red sauce by trying a few variations. First, replace ground beef with shredded chicken for a lighter option. You could also use beans or a combination of meat and beans for a meatless alternative. For an added crunch, consider including diced bell peppers or zucchini in the beef mixture. Experiment with different types of cheese too; mozzarella can give a stretchy, gooey texture. To amp up the flavor, toss in some spices like oregano or fresh coriander in the sauce or filling for a fresh zing. For a more health-conscious version, you can opt for whole wheat tortillas or serve the enchiladas on a bed of sautéed greens instead.
FAQ about Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
What is beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a traditional Mexican dish made with tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef and covered in a rich and flavorful red sauce, often topped with cheese and baked until bubbly.
Can I make beef enchiladas with red sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to one day before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easy to prepare for a busy weeknight.
What kind of beef works best for enchiladas?
Ground beef is commonly used for enchiladas, but you can also use shredded beef or flank steak for a different texture and flavor profile, depending on your preference.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the red sauce?
Absolutely! You can make homemade red sauce and adjust the spices to taste. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a milder salsa for the sauce.
How do I know when beef enchiladas with red sauce are done baking?
Your enchiladas are ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges start to turn golden brown. The filling should be heated through; this usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
Assembly
- 8 pieces corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- as needed Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- as needed Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the meat mixture with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave to make them pliable.
Assembly
- Take a tortilla and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Sprinkle with cheese, then roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Place the enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
- Pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and starts to bubble.
- Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
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