If you've been dreaming of a trip South of the border, then we've got something for you. These cheesy beef enchiladas will transport you right to Mexico, no passport required, and 30 minutes is all this trip will take!
Whether you like them spicy or mild, or served with red or green sauce, this recipe for beef enchiladas is easy to make and even easier to customize to your taste preferences. So, strap on your apron and get ready to head down Mexico Way with this delicious beef enchilada recipe.
Table of Contents
Recipe Video
Why This Recipe Works
This easy beef enchilada recipe works for various reasons, but the main reason you will love it is because of how simple it is to recreate. Less than 30 minutes is all it takes to craft these deliciously cheesy beef enchiladas
Additionally, you will love this recipe because of how versatile it is. Not only can you serve these spicy beef enchiladas with a number of different side dishes, but you can also serve variations of them. Serve your beef enchiladas with red sauce, or experiment with serving your beef enchiladas with green sauce.
Any way you choose to serve them, this is one recipe that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Onion, Garlic, and Jalapeno:
These aromatics add depth and flavor to your homemade beef enchiladas, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Beef:
Ground beef is a classic choice for cheesy beef enchiladas, offering a hearty and savory filling. However, you can also use alternative meats like shredded beef, chicken, or pork for variation. Vegetarian options include black beans, lentils, or diced vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini
Seasonings:
The seasonings in enchilada sauce, such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano, are crucial for infusing the sauce with authentic Mexican flavors. Other options, like smoked paprika or chipotle powder, can add depth and smokiness, enhancing the overall complexity of the sauce.
Flour:
Flour is often used to coat beef before searing it for several reasons. It helps to create a golden-brown crust on the meat, adding texture and visual appeal to the finished dish. Flour also absorbs excess moisture from the beef, which prevents steaming and promotes better browning. Additionally, it forms a thin barrier between the meat and the pan, reducing the risk of sticking and allowing for more even cooking.
Tomato Sauce and Chicken Broth:
Tomato sauce and chicken broth are key components in enchilada sauce for their complementary flavors and textures.
Cheese:
The best cheeses for enchiladas include Mexican cheeses like queso fresco, queso blanco, or shredded Monterey Jack for their mild flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, cheddar or Colby Jack can be used for a sharper taste. Vegan alternatives like dairy-free cheese shreds made from cashews or almonds offer options for those with dietary restrictions. Experimenting with a combination of cheeses or incorporating specialty cheeses like cotija or Oaxaca can elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
Tortillas:
Serving your beef enchiladas with corn tortillas is traditional and offers an authentic flavor. They provide a slightly chewy texture and hold up well to the sauce. To make corn tortillas, mix masa harina with water and a pinch of salt, then press into thin rounds and cook on a hot skillet until lightly browned. However, if you prefer to serve your beef enchiladas with flour tortillas, they will also give you some delicious beef enchiladas. For flour tortillas, use all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and water. Knead the dough, divide it into 8 balls, roll it out into thin circles, and cook on a hot griddle until lightly golden. These homemade tortillas elevate the taste and texture of your enchiladas, ensuring a delicious final dish.
How to Make Beef Enchiladas
Step One:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add ground beef, season with salt, and cook until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step Two:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add onion, jalapeno, and garlic. Stir to incorporate and cook until aromatic - 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step Three:
Add cumin, oregano, flour, and chili powder and stir to combine.
Step Four:
Mix in tomato sauce and continue to stir in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and set aside.
Step Five:
Brush a tortilla with a thin coat of oil, then fill it with the cooked beef and roll it like a cigar. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step Six:
Line the bottom of your baking dish with a thin layer of enchilada sauce and place a layer of your beef tortilla cigars on top.
Step Seven:
Cover with a generous portion of enchilada sauce and a line of cheese across the top.
Step Eight:
Bake for 15 minutes at 325F. Remove from the oven once the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling.
Step Nine:
Serve with some fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
Tips
- Customize the filling with ingredients like diced bell peppers, black beans, or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Avoid overfilling the tortillas to prevent them from bursting open while baking. You will also want to roll them tightly around the filling to prevent them from unraveling during baking.
- Ensure the enchiladas are evenly coated with sauce to prevent dry spots and ensure every bite is flavorful.
What to Serve With Beef Enchiladas
When serving authentic beef enchiladas, you could consider complementing them with authentic Mexican side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. Popular options include serving your beef enchiladas with rice like Spanish rice or refried beans or a fresh avocado salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette. You can also serve your beef enchiladas with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa, adding a creamy and tangy contrast to the hearty beef filling. For a refreshing beverage, offer a spicy margarita, or a classic agua fresca.
FAQs
How do I prevent my enchiladas from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy enchiladas, lightly fry or heat your tortillas before filling and rolling them. Additionally, you can thicken the enchilada sauce or drain excess liquid from ingredients like cooked ground beef.
How long can I store leftover beef enchiladas?
Leftover beef enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap. For longer-term storage, they can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat leftover beef enchiladas?
To reheat leftover beef enchiladas, you can either microwave them until heated through or place them in a preheated oven at 350F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated to your liking.
More Mexican Food Recipes
If you're dreaming of a trip South of the border, look no further than your own kitchen. This collection of Mexican food recipes will have you transported to the sunny streets of Mexico in no time.
Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Beef Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons vegetable oil divided in thirds
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 white onion diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 package tortillas
- 3 cups cheese shredded
- cilantro for serving, optional
- sour cream for serving, optional
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add ground beef, season with salt, and cook until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add onion, jalapeno, and garlic. Stir to incorporate and cook until aromatic - 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Add cumin, oregano, flour, and chili powder and stir to combine.
- Mix in tomato sauce and continue to stir in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Brush a tortilla with a thin coat of oil, then fill it with the cooked beef and roll it like a cigar. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Line the bottom of your baking dish with a thin layer of enchilada sauce and place a layer of your beef tortilla cigars on top.
- Cover with a generous portion of enchilada sauce and a line of cheese across the top.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 325F. Remove from the oven once the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve with some fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Video
Notes
- Customize the beef filling with ingredients like diced bell peppers, black beans, or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Avoid overfilling the tortillas to prevent them from bursting open while baking. You will also want to roll them tightly around the filling to prevent them from unraveling during baking.
- Ensure the enchiladas are evenly coated with sauce to prevent dry spots and ensure every bite is flavorful.