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

Enchiladas, a classic Mexican dish, are a culinary delight that combines the richness of ground beef, the warmth of spices, and the delectable embrace of tortillas. This comprehensive guide will embark you on a culinary adventure, revealing the secrets of how to make ground beef enchiladas that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess grease. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
2. Warm the Tortillas: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place a tortilla on the hot surface and heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until it becomes pliable. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with the ground beef mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
4. Roll the Enchiladas: Carefully roll up the tortillas, starting from the bottom and working your way to the top. Place the enchiladas seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Guacamole: Serve the enchiladas with a dollop of freshly made guacamole for a creamy and refreshing contrast.
• Salsa: Add a burst of flavor with your favorite salsa.
• Sour Cream: A drizzle of sour cream will add a touch of acidity and richness.
• Pico de Gallo: Top the enchiladas with a vibrant and crunchy pico de gallo for a burst of freshness.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ground beef: The flavor of the enchiladas will depend heavily on the quality of the ground beef. Opt for a leaner ground beef with a higher fat content for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the beef: Overcooked ground beef can become tough and chewy. Cook it just until it’s browned to maintain its tenderness.
• Season the beef generously: Don’t be afraid to add plenty of spices to the ground beef mixture. The chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper will enhance the flavor and give it a depth of taste.
• Warm the tortillas: Warming the tortillas before assembling the enchiladas will make them more pliable and less likely to tear.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas: Overfilling the tortillas can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst open during baking.

Variations:

• Chicken Enchiladas: Substitute the ground beef with cooked and shredded chicken for a lighter and healthier option.
• Vegetable Enchiladas: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, for a vegetarian alternative.
• Cheese Enchiladas: Omit the ground beef and instead fill the tortillas with a mixture of shredded cheese and your favorite seasonings.

Wrapping Up

Now that you have mastered the art of making ground beef enchiladas, you can impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying dish. Whether you serve them with guacamole, salsa, or your favorite toppings, these enchiladas are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will provide a leaner and slightly milder flavor.

Q: Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them before serving.

Q: What are some other fillings I can use for enchiladas?
A: You can fill enchiladas with various fillings, such as shredded chicken, pork, cheese, beans, or a combination of these ingredients.