Beef Enchiladas
Beef enchiladas roll seasoned beef and cheese in tortillas with enchilada sauce baked until bubbling.
About This Recipe
Beef enchiladas bake tortillas filled with seasoned beef and cheese under enchilada sauce.
The recipe works best when the ground beef is prepared carefully and the texture cues in the method are followed.
Ingredients
- ✓1 batch red enchilada sauce (or 15 ounces store-bought red enchilada sauce)
- ✓1 tablespoon olive oil
- ✓1 small white onion (diced)
- ✓4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ✓1 1/2 pounds (24 ounces) lean ground beef
- ✓1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ✓1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans
- ✓1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- ✓fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
- ✓8 large flour tortillas*
- ✓3 cups Mexican-blend shredded cheese
- ✓toppings: fresh cilantro
Ingredient Notes
- Ground beef: This is the main ingredient, so use the amount and preparation listed.
- Tortillas: This helps build the core flavor of the recipe.
- Enchilada sauce: This affects the texture and balance.
- Cheese: Adjust carefully so the finished dish stays balanced.
Instructions
- 1
Heat the oven to 350°F and spread a little enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- 2
Cook the onion and garlic in oil until fragrant, then add the ground beef and cumin.
- 3
Brown the beef, drain excess fat if needed, then stir in the beans, green chiles, and a little sauce.
- 4
Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and cheese, then roll tightly.
- 5
Place the enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish and spoon more sauce over the top.
- 6
Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake until hot, bubbly, and lightly crisp at the edges.
- 7
Serve warm with cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or your favorite toppings.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Prepare the ground beef before heating the pan or oven.
- Follow the heat level in the method so the texture comes out right.
- Taste or check doneness before serving.
- Let the dish rest or chill when the instructions call for it.
Variations and Substitutions
- Extra flavor: Add herbs, citrus, or spice that fits .
- Lighter version: Reduce rich toppings or use smaller portions.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the component that holds best in advance.
- Serving style: Turn leftovers into bowls, sandwiches, or small portions when it fits.
What to Serve With Beef Enchiladas
Serve with rice, beans, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftover in a covered container.
Reheat gently or serve chilled depending on the texture of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the ground beef: Give the main ingredient enough time to cook or set properly.
- Skipping seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving when possible.
- Wrong temperature: Too much heat can hurt the texture.
- Serving too soon: Some recipes need a short rest or chill to finish properly.
FAQ
Can I make ahead?
Yes. Prepare the part that stores best, then finish or reheat before serving.
How do I know it is done?
Use the timing plus the texture and doneness cues in the instructions.
Can I change the seasoning?
Yes. Adjust gradually so the main flavor stays balanced.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered and refrigerated when appropriate.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 serving