Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Craving a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare? Ground Beef Enchiladas are a perfect choice! This classic Mexican-inspired dish features seasoned ground beef wrapped in tortillas, smothered in enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading to learn how to make these delicious enchiladas step by step.

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What are Ground Beef Enchiladas?

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a popular Mexican dish consisting of tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, then rolled up and covered with a rich enchilada sauce and cheese. Baked to perfection, these enchiladas are savory, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. They can be customized with various fillings and toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Enchiladas

To make these delicious enchiladas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (19 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 10-12 flour or corn tortillas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Sliced jalapenos (optional, for serving)

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Enchiladas (Continued)

For additional flavor and variety, you can also include:

• ½ cup corn (optional)
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
• 1 jalapeno, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Avocado slices (for serving)

These optional ingredients add more depth and texture to your enchiladas.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Beef Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute for a different flavor or to cater to dietary preferences.
• Cheese: Substitute with any melty cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or a Mexican blend.
• Tortillas: Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option, or corn tortillas for a more traditional taste.
• Beans: Swap black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans.
• Vegetables: Add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

These variations allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop any additional vegetables you’re using.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Beans

Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Prepare the Tortillas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable.

Step 6: Assemble the Enchiladas

Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese, then roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapenos, lime wedges, and avocado slices.

How to Cook Ground Beef Enchiladas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking these enchiladas is easy if you follow these steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Dice vegetables and chop any optional ingredients.
2. Cook Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Cook the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add Seasonings and Beans: Mix in spices, beans, and tomatoes.
5. Prepare Tortillas: Warm tortillas to make them pliable.
6. Assemble Enchiladas: Fill tortillas with beef mixture and roll up.
7. Add Sauce and Cheese: Top with enchilada sauce and cheese.
8. Bake: Cook in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh cilantro and desired toppings.

By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious and well-balanced dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly:

• Overfilling Tortillas: Don’t overfill the tortillas to avoid them breaking or becoming too soggy.
• Skipping Warming Tortillas: Warm the tortillas to make them easier to roll without cracking.
• Burning the Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
• Not Using Enough Sauce: Ensure the enchiladas are well-coated with sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll achieve perfect enchiladas every time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can enhance the dining experience. Here are some tips:

• Garnish: Add fresh cilantro and sliced jalapenos for a pop of color and flavor.
• Accompaniments: Serve with lime wedges, avocado slices, and a side of Mexican rice or beans.
• Plating: Use colorful toppings like diced tomatoes and green onions to enhance visual appeal.

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas

Serve these enchiladas hot, straight from the oven. Here’s how to make them extra special:

• Plating: Arrange enchiladas on a plate and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Sides: Pair with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Offer toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapenos, and avocado for guests to customize their servings.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Enchiladas

Make your dish stand out with these presentation ideas:

• Color Contrast: Use bright, fresh garnishes for visual interest.
• Serving Dish: Present in a beautiful, colorful baking dish or platter.
• Layering: Ensure cheese is melted and bubbly on top for an inviting look.

Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and prepare the beef mixture ahead of time for quicker assembly.
• Freeze: These enchiladas freeze well. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the enchiladas ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Enchiladas?

Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best taste.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.

What can I serve with these enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, a simple green salad, and a side of guacamole or salsa.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own!

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