Introduction to Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce
Devoted home cook, I know that weeknights can sometimes feel like a race against the clock. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce! It’s not just a delicious dish; it’s a hearty meal that you can whip up in about 40 minutes.
With rich flavors and cheesy goodness, these enchiladas are sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, they’re perfect for tackling an empty fridge or satisfying picky eaters. Let’s dive into this quick solution for your dinner dilemmas and create something truly special together!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce
You’ll adore this Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce recipe for so many reasons! It’s a breeze to make, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors are vibrant, and the hearty filling makes everyone want seconds! Plus, with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that can turn any hectic evening into a warm family feast.
Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce
Let’s gather the ingredients for this satisfying dish! Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce.
- Ground beef: This is the hearty hero of our dish, providing rich flavor and protein. Lean ground beef is my go-to, but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Yellow onion: Diced onions add a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling. On a busy night, I often opt for pre-diced onions to save time.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates everything with its aromatic kick, bringing warmth and flavor that just can’t be replaced.
- Taco seasoning: This magical little packet spices up our beef filling. If you want to get creative, you can whip up your own blend using cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
- Tomato paste: A tablespoon enriches the sauce, giving it a robust taste and a hint of sweetness that balances the spices.
- Diced green chiles: These charming little cans add a mild heat and extra texture. If you’re like me and love a spice kick, go for a hotter variety!
- Red enchilada sauce: The star of the show! This sauce marries everything together, creating a luscious layer of flavor. You can find different brands, or even make your own for that homemade touch!
- Corn tortillas: These are perfect for wrapping up the meaty goodness. Warming them first helps prevent cracks and makes rolling easy.
- Mexican cheese blend: A generous amount of shredded cheese creates that oozy, melty top. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a flavorful twist!
- Optional toppings: The fun doesn’t stop at the enchiladas! Consider fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese for that extra wow factor.
For exact measurements of these ingredients, check the bottom of the article where they are clearly listed for printing! Happy cooking!
How to Make Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s transform them into the mouthwatering Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce we’ve been dreaming about! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a family favorite in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Sauté it, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial; fully cooked meat lends deep flavor and texture to your enchiladas.
Once cooked, drain any excess fat. I usually tilt the skillet slightly to pour it out, leaving just enough for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion. Sauté it for about 4 minutes until it’s nice and translucent. The smell alone is heavenly!
Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. This will help your kitchen smell like a restaurant as those flavors meld together.
Step 3: Combine Beef Mixture
Now it’s time to return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the tomato paste, diced green chiles, along with the amount of water specified on the seasoning packet.
Stir everything together. Allow it to simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid evaporates. This enhances the flavors and leads to a heartier filling for your enchiladas.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, spread 1/2 cup of red enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates a delightful base for your rolled enchiladas, helping them stay moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
Before filling the tortillas, warm them up in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until they’re pliable. Warm tortillas are much easier to roll!
For each tortilla, place about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese. Roll them tightly, seam-side down, and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Once all the enchiladas are snug in their baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over them. Feel free to add more cheese on top for that irresistible gooeyness!
Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and bubble, creating a glorious golden layer.
Once baked, let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes. This makes serving easier. Then, top with your favorite garnishes, and get ready to savor every bite!
Tips for Success
- Warm your tortillas before filling to avoid cracking.
- Don’t overfill the enchiladas; keep filling to about 1/3 cup.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Let enchiladas sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Feel free to adjust seasoning; you can always add more spice!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best but a regular pan will do fine.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch glass or ceramic dish is ideal; any similar size will work.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps with mixing and serving.
- Microwave: For warming tortillas quickly; an oven will work too.
Variations
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Swap out the beef for black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: Layer in different types of cheeses like queso fresco or feta for a unique flavor profile.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier option with added fiber.
- Paleo-Friendly: Replace tortillas with zucchini slices or lettuce wraps for a grain-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of Spanish rice or black beans for a fulfilling meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Offer chilled beverages like horchata or a light margarita to enhance the meal.
- Garnish with slices of lime on the side for an extra zesty touch.
FAQs about Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce
As you embark on your culinary journey with Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries and my responses to help you along the way.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef filling and assemble the enchiladas in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
If you want a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, black beans or lentils work wonderfully. Just season them well to keep those flavors popping!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just place the leftover enchiladas in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.
Is it possible to make these enchiladas gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free corn tortillas and double-check that your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal without worry!
How can I add more spice to my enchiladas?
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. A splash of hot sauce can also elevate the heat level according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
Creating Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about sharing love and warmth with my family. I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen, the laughter echoing as I plate up these flavorful enchiladas. The aroma fills my home, teasing taste buds and igniting excitement.
Whether it’s a Monday night or a weekend gathering, this dish has a special way of bringing everyone together. So, grab your ingredients and embrace this cooking adventure. I promise that these enchiladas will become a cherished part of your family’s dining experiences!
Print
Beef Enchiladas Red Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and quick recipe for beef enchiladas topped with a rich red sauce and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 oz can diced green chiles
- 15 oz can red enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
- Optional Toppings: sour cream, fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, diced avocado, shredded lettuce, green onions, cotija cheese, hot sauce
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until fully browned. Remove and drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Return beef to the skillet. Add taco seasoning, tomato paste, diced green chiles, and water as directed on seasoning packet. Simmer until mixture thickens and most liquid evaporates.
- Spread 1/2 cup enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Warm tortillas until pliable. Fill each with 1/3 cup beef mixture and 1/4 cup cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle evenly with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with desired garnishes.
Notes
- Make sure the tortillas are warmed to prevent cracking when rolling.
- Adjust the amount of optional toppings to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
