Easy Beef Enchiladas Recipe: A Delicious and Simple Mexican Meal
Are you craving a comforting, flavorful Mexican dish but short on time? Look no further! This easy beef enchiladas recipe delivers big on taste without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, these enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite. This recipe focuses on simplicity and speed, making it ideal for even the busiest cooks.
What You'll Need: The Ingredients for Delicious Beef Enchiladas
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Enchiladas:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (your favorite brand, red or green)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite Mexican blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Easy Beef Enchiladas
Follow these simple steps for perfectly delicious beef enchiladas every time!
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (both cans), chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Pour about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef filling.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations for Your Easy Beef Enchiladas
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the beef filling for extra heat.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Add some beans: Include a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans to the filling for added protein and fiber.
- Make it a casserole: Instead of rolling the enchiladas, layer the tortillas, beef filling, and sauce in the baking dish for a quicker, simpler version.
- Prep ahead: The beef filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve and Enjoy Your Delicious Homemade Beef Enchiladas!
Serve these easy beef enchiladas with your favorite Mexican sides, such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and rice. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us in your photos. Happy cooking!
