Ground Beef Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that combines flavorful seasoned beef with a rich and spicy enchilada sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a gathering with friends. The layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and savory sauce create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 8-10 flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping)
Step 1: Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook for an additional minute to toast the spices.
Step 2: Add Liquids to the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the tomato sauce and water (or beef broth). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 5: Season the Beef
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If using, mix in the chopped cilantro. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar size with cooking spray or a little bit of oil.
Step 7: Prepare the Tortillas
If using corn tortillas, lightly fry them in a skillet with a little oil until pliable, then drain on paper towels. Flour tortillas can be used without additional preparation.
Step 8: Assemble the Enchiladas
Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon some of the beef filling onto each tortilla, then sprinkle with a little shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
Step 9: Cover with Sauce
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 10: Bake the Enchiladas
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
Step 11: Let the Enchiladas Rest
Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce set and make it easier to serve.
Step 12: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with additional chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve the enchiladas with your favorite side dishes such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.
Step 13: Customizing the Recipe
Feel free to customize the enchiladas by adding other ingredients to the beef filling, such as black beans, corn, or sliced olives. You can also use different types of cheese or add a layer of cooked chicken or pork.
Step 14: Making Ahead
Enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Step 15: Freezing the Enchiladas
To freeze, assemble the enchiladas and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or bake from frozen, adding 20-30 minutes to the baking time.
Additional Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling.
- Experiment with different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, if needed.
- You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with a mix of black beans and corn.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas!
