Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce

Name: Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Sour cream for serving

Enjoy a taste of Mexico with these mouthwatering beef enchiladas smothered in a savory red sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible flavor. Each bite is filled with tender beef, melty cheese, and a delightful sauce that will leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delicious dish to your table!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
8 corn tortillas
2 cups red enchilada sauce
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Sour cream for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 enchilada) contains about 320 calories, 18g of fat, 24g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
Season the mixture with cumin, salt, and pepper.
Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until pliable.
Spread a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each tortilla.
Sprinkle cheese over the beef and roll up the tortillas tightly.
Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
Pour red enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use shredded chicken or beans instead of beef for a vegetarian option. Corn tortillas can be substituted with flour tortillas if preferred. For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños to the filling.

Serving and Pairings

These enchiladas pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. Top with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through. These enchiladas can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

Overfilling tortillas can cause them to burst.
Not warming tortillas may lead to cracking when rolling.
Using too much sauce can make enchiladas soggy.
Not browning the beef sufficiently can lead to a bland flavor.
Forgetting to cover with foil while baking can dry them out.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, sauté the tortillas in a bit of oil before filling.
Experiment with different types of cheese for varied taste.
Add spices like chili powder for an extra kick.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?

Yes, store-bought enchilada sauce is convenient and can save time. Just choose a brand that you enjoy for the best flavor.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace ground beef with black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version of enchiladas.

What types of cheese work best?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are popular choices, but you can also use pepper jack for a spicier flavor or a Mexican blend for variety.

Can I make enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them beforehand, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I prevent soggy tortillas?

Ensure that the tortillas are warmed before filling, and don’t oversaturate with sauce before baking to keep them from getting soggy.

Conclusion

Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a comforting and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Mexico right into your home. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors that will surely impress your family and friends!