Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce

Name: Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 can (15 oz red enchilada sauce); 8 flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Fresh cilantro for garnish; Avocado slices for topping

Indulge in the hearty goodness of beef enchiladas with red sauce! This comforting dish brings together tender beef, flavorful spices, and a rich red sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for a family meal or a gathering, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. Follow this recipe to create a delicious meal packed with authentic flavors that will transport you straight to Mexico.

Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
– 8 flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Avocado slices for topping

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This breakdown is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess fat and add onions and garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder; cook for another minute.
5. Remove from heat and mix in half the enchilada sauce.
6. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce in a baking dish.
7. Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and roll them up tightly.
8. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
9. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Vegetarian options can include black beans or sautéed vegetables. For a gluten-free version, use corn tortillas instead of flour.

Serving and Pairings

Serve these enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. They pair excellently with a fresh salad or guacamole for added flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enchiladas can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Overfilling the tortillas can cause them to break.
Not sealing the edges can lead to soggy enchiladas.
Using low-quality tortillas may affect texture.
Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven cooking.
Forgetting to cover with sauce can lead to dry enchiladas.

Helpful Tips

Use a mixture of cheeses for added flavor.
Let the beef mixture cool slightly before filling tortillas.
Top with fresh cilantro and avocado for garnish.
Experiment with different spices for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What type of cheese is best for enchiladas?

A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is ideal for enchiladas, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How spicy are these enchiladas?

The spice level can be adjusted by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce and varying the amount of chili powder.

What sides go well with beef enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delightful dish that brings the warmth of Mexican cuisine to your table. With their savory beef filling and rich sauce, they are sure to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy making them and watch as they become a family favorite!