Easy Beef Enchiladas Recipe
Introduction
These easy beef enchiladas are loaded with seasoned ground beef, smothered in a flavorful enchilada sauce, and topped with plenty of melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a simple yet satisfying meal for the whole family. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete Mexican-inspired dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 (15 oz) can enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, jalapeños
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Stir in the ground cumin and chili powder. Pour in 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce and mix until the beef is evenly coated. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, and roll it up tightly. Place the enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish.
Step 4: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are completely covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, or diced tomatoes, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these enchiladas with Mexican rice and refried beans for a classic meal.
- Add a side of fresh guacamole or a simple green salad for a refreshing balance.
- Serve with salsa and tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the tortillas to keep them from breaking during rolling.
- Cheese Blend: Use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the perfect cheesy texture and flavor.
- Warm Tortillas: Briefly heat the tortillas before assembling to make them easier to roll without cracking.