How To Make Ground Beef Enchiladas: The Easiest Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this comprehensive guide on how to make ground beef enchiladas. This classic Mexican dish combines tender ground beef, flavorful spices, and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. Follow our step-by-step instructions and tips to create mouthwatering enchiladas that will impress your family and friends.

Gather Your Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Season and Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.

Create the Enchilada Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir until well combined.

Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Fill each corn tortilla with a scoop of ground beef mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
4. Roll up the tortillas and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas.

Bake and Serve

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

Enhance Your Enchiladas

• Add vegetables: Sauté chopped bell peppers, onions, or corn and add them to the ground beef mixture.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or queso fresco.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the enchilada sauce for a kick.
• Top with a fried egg: Place a fried egg on top of each enchilada for a protein-packed breakfast or brunch option.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality corn tortillas that are pliable and won’t tear when rolled.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas or they will burst open when baked.
• Bake the enchiladas until the cheese is melted and bubbly, but not overcooked.
• Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Wrap It Up: A Culinary Masterpiece

Congratulations on creating your own delicious ground beef enchiladas! This versatile dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to suit your preferences. Remember, the art of cooking is a journey of exploration and creativity. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of your homemade enchiladas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.

Q: How do I make the enchiladas vegetarian?
A: Omit the ground beef and use a combination of beans, vegetables, and tofu as the filling.

Q: Can I freeze the enchiladas before baking?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: How do I store the leftover enchiladas?
A: Store the leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: What are some suggestions for serving enchiladas?
A: Serve enchiladas with a side of rice, beans, salad, or guacamole.