Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, beef enchiladas with red sauce are a perfect choice. These enchiladas are stuffed with tender beef, smothered in a rich red sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious meal at home!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 enchiladas) contains about 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable.
- Spread a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each tortilla.
- Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn for a different texture. For a vegetarian option, consider using beans or lentils as a filling.
Serving and Pairings
These enchiladas pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. For an extra kick, serve with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven until heated through, or microwave until warm.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overfilling the tortillas can cause them to break.
- Not warming the tortillas can make them brittle.
- Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven cooking.
- Using cold ingredients can lead to longer cooking times.
- Not covering the dish can dry out the enchiladas.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh tortillas for the best texture.
- Experiment with different cheeses for added flavor.
- Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime for brightness.
FAQs
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
You can use salsa or homemade tomato sauce as an alternative, but it may alter the flavor and spice level.
How spicy are these enchiladas?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the enchilada sauce used. Mild sauces will yield a milder dish.
Can I use leftovers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover beef or chicken can be used as a filling for the enchiladas.
What is the best cheese for enchiladas?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well for enchiladas due to their melting qualities.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a satisfying meal that will please your family and friends. Enjoy this recipe for a warm, comforting dinner any night of the week!
Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable.
- Spread a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each tortilla.
- Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
