Enchiladas are a classic dish rooted in Mexican cuisine, known for their comforting layers and delightful flavors. Among the many variations, ground beef enchiladas stand out not just because of their taste but also for their simplicity and the sense of homeliness they evoke. These enchiladas merge seasoned ground beef with creamy refried beans, all encased in soft flour tortillas and topped with a generous layer of enchilada sauce and cheese, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and hearty.
Why We Love This Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, there’s something undeniably special about ground beef enchiladas. What makes this recipe so appealing? First and foremost, the combination of flavors is simply divine. The cozy warmth of cumin, oregano, and chili powder melds beautifully with sautéed onions and garlic, enhancing the richness of the ground beef. It’s not just a meal, it’s a mini celebration for your taste buds.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice levels based on your preferences and even add your favorite toppings. The best part? It’s straightforward and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can have a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ready to dive into the details? Let’s break down everything you’ll need to create your very own batch of scrumptious ground beef enchiladas.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchiladas
Here’s what you’ll need to make your mouthwatering ground beef enchiladas. Gather these ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey.
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups refried beans
- 4 cups red enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese or Pepper Jack, shredded
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas
Now that you have the ingredients ready, it’s time to whip up these irresistible enchiladas. Follow these simple steps for a successful cooking experience.
Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the cumin powder, dried oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. This aromatic blend sets the foundation for your filling, so take a moment to enjoy the enticing scents.
Preheat the Oven: Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect cooking environment for your enchiladas when you’re ready to bake.
Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, throw in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the prepared spice mix. Cook for about 2 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns. You want to ensure that it’s evenly cooked and infused with all the wonderful spices.
Incorporate the Beans: Once the beef is browned, stir in the refried beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing well until everything is combined. The mixture should be thick and hearty. Set it aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour a layer of the enchilada sauce to cover the bottom of a 13×9 inch baking dish. This will prevent the tortillas from sticking and add extra flavor.
Fill the Tortillas: Take a tortilla and spread about 1/3 cup of the beef and bean mixture horizontally across the center. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled enchilada seam side down into the sauce in the baking dish. Repeat this process until all 8 enchiladas are nestled in the pan.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are well coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
Your ground beef enchiladas are now ready to be enjoyed! This dish is not only tasty but also offers great satisfaction with each bite.
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas
Serving your ground beef enchiladas is as delightful as preparing them. Plate up the enchiladas still warm from the oven, and consider adding a few complementary sides to enhance the meal. Here are some suggestions:
Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings such as sliced avocados, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. These additions allow you and your guests to customize each plate to their liking.
Sides: Pair your enchiladas with refreshing sides like a simple green salad or Mexican-style rice. These lightened options balance the richness of the enchiladas perfectly.
Beverages: To accompany your meal, consider serving iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lime for a refreshing drink that complements the flavors of the dish.
These simple serving ideas will elevate your ground beef enchiladas and create a warm, inviting dining atmosphere.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Enchiladas
To ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Choose Your Beef Wisely: Using ground beef with a bit of fat content, like 80/20, adds flavor and moisture. Avoid lean beef as it may result in drier enchiladas.
Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warming the tortillas in a skillet or microwave makes them more pliable, reducing the chance of tearing when you roll them.
Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the chili powder or even add in some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack are excellent choices, feel free to mix and match cheeses to suit your taste. Cheddar or even a Mexican blend can add a delicious twist.
Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Ground beef enchiladas reheat beautifully, keeping their flavor intact, making them perfect for next-day lunches or dinners.
Implementing these tips will help you master the art of making ground beef enchiladas that are sure to impress everyone around your table.
How to Store Ground Beef Enchiladas
Should you find yourself with leftover enchiladas, storing them properly will ensure you can enjoy them later without losing their tantalizing flavors.
Cooling: Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This step is crucial to prevent sogginess.
Refrigeration: Store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the enchiladas. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave them for a quick meal. Adding a bit of extra enchilada sauce on top before reheating can help retain moisture.
With these storage methods, you can easily enjoy the delightful flavors of ground beef enchiladas even after the initial meal.
Variations of Ground Beef Enchiladas
While the classic ground beef enchiladas are undeniably delicious, there’s room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some variations you can try to mix things up:
Vegetarian Enchiladas: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or beans. This variation is perfect for those seeking a lighter option without compromising on flavor.
Chicken Enchiladas: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef. Pair it with a verde sauce for a bright, fresh twist.
Cheesy Enchiladas: For those cheese lovers out there, add even more cheese inside the enchiladas for a gooey, melty texture that takes the enjoyment up a notch.
Southwestern Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and diced green chilies into your beef filling for a zesty, Southwestern-inspired enchilada.
These variations not only offer different flavors but also cater to various dietary preferences, making enchiladas a versatile option for any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ground Beef Enchiladas
What can I serve with ground beef enchiladas?
Ground beef enchiladas pair perfectly with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, avocado salad, or a simple green salad.
How do I make ground beef enchiladas spicier?
To add more heat, increase the chili powder, include some diced jalapeños in the filling, or top the enchiladas with a spicy salsa before serving.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and bean mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, assemble and bake your enchiladas.
How do I prevent my enchiladas from getting soggy?
Be sure to cook the tortillas just until they’re warm and flexible. Also, using a good layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish helps prevent sticking.
Ground Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups refried beans
- 4 cups red enchilada sauce
- 8 pieces flour tortillas
- 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack, shredded)
- cilantro (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together cumin, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 2 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef and the spice mix. Cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
- Stir in the refried beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until combined and thick.
- Pour a layer of enchilada sauce into a 13×9 inch baking dish.
- Spread about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture across each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam side down in the dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
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