Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Craving a flavorful, homemade Mexican dish that's sure to please everyone at the table? Look no further! This ground beef enchiladas recipe is packed with delicious ingredients and spices that will leave your taste buds dancing. Follow along to discover how to make these mouth-watering enchiladas, complete with a savory enchilada sauce and plenty of gooey cheese. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight—read on to master this dish!

What Are Ground Beef Enchiladas?

Ground beef enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish featuring soft tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and green bell peppers, all smothered in a rich enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheese. This dish combines the perfect blend of spices and textures to create a satisfying and hearty meal that's great for family dinners, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress with your cooking skills.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Enchiladas

For the Enchiladas:

• 8 soft taco flour tortillas or king corn tortillas: These are the foundation of your enchiladas. Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, while corn tortillas offer a traditional taste and texture.
• 1 lb ground beef: The star ingredient, providing a rich and savory base.
• 1 cup onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped: Contributes a subtle, tangy crunch.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic, savory notes.
• 1 ½ cups Mexican cheese: A blend of cheeses that melts beautifully over the enchiladas.

For the Enchilada Sauce:

• 2 tablespoon canola oil: Used for making the roux, the base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal sweetness.
• 2 tablespoon chili powder: Brings a robust, spicy kick to the sauce.
• 2 cups water: The liquid base for the sauce, ensuring the right consistency.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors in the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Protein Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different twist.
• Cheese Options: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a vegan cheese substitute if you're avoiding dairy.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to make the dish milder or spicier according to your taste.
• Additional Veggies: Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or corn to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas and flour alternatives for the sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Filling

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Set Aside: Once the filling is cooked, remove it from heat and set aside.

Making the Enchilada Sauce

1. Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the canola oil and all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously until the mixture turns golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, dried oregano, and chili powder. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
3. Add Water and Simmer: Gradually whisk in the water, ensuring there are no lumps. Add salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.

Assembling the Enchiladas

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fill Tortillas: Lay out a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture down the center. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
3. Repeat: Continue filling and rolling the remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly in the dish.
4. Pour Sauce: Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are fully covered.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese over the top of the sauce-covered enchiladas.

Baking the Enchiladas

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Cook Ground Beef Enchiladas: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. Ensure it's fully cooked and no pink remains.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until they are tender.
3. Combine Ingredients: Mix in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, make the enchilada sauce by creating a roux with canola oil and flour. Add tomato paste, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and gradually whisk in water. Simmer until thickened.
5. Fill and Roll Tortillas: Place the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfilling Tortillas: Ensure you don't overfill the tortillas to prevent them from breaking or becoming messy.
2. Undercooking the Beef: Make sure the ground beef is fully cooked before assembling the enchiladas to avoid any health risks.
3. Skipping the Sauce: The enchilada sauce is crucial for flavor and moisture. Don't skimp on it!
4. Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
5. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the enchiladas to avoid overbaking, which can make them dry.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Ground Beef Enchiladas

• Plate Individually: Serve each enchilada on a plate with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
• Family Style: Place the baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• With Sides: Pair with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Enchiladas

• Garnishes: Top with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado for added color and flavor.
• Plating: Use colorful plates and add a wedge of lime for a bright, festive touch.
• Serving Dish: Serve directly from a decorative, oven-to-table baking dish to make it both practical and attractive.

Ground Beef Enchiladas Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: Prepare the enchiladas and sauce in advance, then refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
2. Freeze for Later: These enchiladas freeze well. Assemble and freeze before baking, then bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
3. Customizable: Adjust spices and ingredients based on personal preference or dietary needs.
4. Reheat Properly: Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain the texture and flavor, rather than using a microwave.
5. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese will elevate the overall taste of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour?

Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a more authentic taste and texture. They may be a bit more delicate, so handle them with care.

How Do I Prevent the Tortillas from Getting Soggy?

To prevent soggy tortillas, lightly fry them in a bit of oil before filling. This helps create a barrier that keeps them from absorbing too much sauce.

What Can I Serve with Enchiladas?

Great side dishes include Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a fresh salad.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

How Spicy Is This Dish?

The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust it by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder and adding fresh jalapeños if desired.

Conclusion

This ground beef enchiladas recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich flavors, customizable options, and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that brings a touch of Mexican flair to your table. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these enchiladas are a delicious and hearty choice. Follow the steps outlined above, and you'll have a delightful meal ready in no time. Enjoy the culinary journey and the delicious results!

Ready to dive into more recipes? Check out our other mouth-watering dishes to keep your cooking inspiration alive. Happy cooking!

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