Are you ready to whip up a flavorful dinner that’s sure to please everyone? These Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas are easy to make and taste amazing! With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Plus, you can make them just how you like. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients
To make cheesy ground beef enchiladas, you need some simple ingredients. Here’s the list:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for garnish
Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor and texture of the dish. The ground beef gives it a hearty base. The onion and garlic add depth and aroma. Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a touch of zest. Corn adds sweetness and texture.
Spices like chili powder and cumin enhance the overall taste. Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll. The shredded cheese makes everything creamy and gooey. Enchilada sauce ties it all together, while cilantro and jalapeños make for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Enjoy the process of cooking these enchiladas; they’ll surely become a favorite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This warms it up for baking.
– Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until it turns brown. Drain any extra fat. Then, add 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the onion looks clear, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
– Mix in Other Ingredients
Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Add 1 cup of corn, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Let this mix simmer for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.
Enchilada Assembly
– Prepare Tortillas
Warm 8 small flour tortillas. You can use a microwave or a dry skillet. This makes them soft and easy to roll.
– Fill and Roll the Enchiladas
Spoon a good amount of the beef mix onto each tortilla. Add a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor. Roll each tortilla tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
– Pour Sauce and Cheese
Next, pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Make sure they are well covered. Top it all with 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend.
Baking
– Bake until Cheese is Melted
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. You want to see the cheese melted and bubbly.
– Garnish and Cool before Serving
Once done, take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños. This adds a nice touch and flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Best Practices for Ground Beef
Always choose lean ground beef. This helps avoid excess fat. Cook it over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks for even browning. Drain any fat after cooking. This keeps your enchiladas from being greasy.
– How to Keep Tortillas Pliable
Warm your tortillas before filling them. You can use a microwave or a skillet. Wrap them in a clean cloth after warming. This keeps them soft and easy to roll. If they crack, they may break when you roll them.
Serving Suggestions
– Presentation Tips
Serve the enchiladas on a bright plate. Drizzle extra enchilada sauce on top. Add fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for color. This makes the dish look inviting and fun.
– Pairing with Sides and Drinks
Pair your enchiladas with rice or beans for a full meal. A light salad with lime dressing goes well too. For drinks, consider a cold margarita or iced tea.
Flavor Enhancements
– Adding Extra Spices
Try adding more chili powder or cumin for a kick. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add depth. Be careful with salt; taste as you go.
– Incorporating Vegetables
You can mix in diced bell peppers or zucchini. Spinach adds a nice touch and extra nutrients. Just sauté them with the beef for better flavor.
Variations
Different Meat Options
Ground Turkey
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey. It is leaner and still tasty. Just cook it the same way. The flavor will still shine through.
Shredded Chicken
Shredded chicken works great too! Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a fast option. Just mix it with the same spices for a yummy filling.
Vegetarian Alternatives
Black Beans or Lentils
For a vegetarian twist, use black beans or lentils. They add protein and fiber. Just mash or mix them into the filling.
Additional Vegetables
You can also add more veggies. Chopped bell peppers or zucchini blend well. They boost flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Sauce Variations
Homemade Enchilada Sauce
Making your own enchilada sauce is easy! Blend tomatoes, chili powder, and spices. It gives a fresh taste to your dish.
Spicy vs. Mild Options
Choose your sauce heat level. Use spicy sauce for a kick or mild for a gentler flavor. Adjust it based on your taste and guests.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
– Refrigeration Guidelines: Place leftover enchiladas in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
– Freezing Tips: To freeze, wrap enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
– Best Methods for Reheating: The oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20 minutes.
– Keeping the Enchiladas Moist: Add a splash of enchilada sauce on top before reheating. This keeps them from drying out.
Shelf Life
– How Long They Last in Fridge/Feezer: In the fridge, they last 3-4 days. In the freezer, they are good for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I make enchiladas from scratch?
To make enchiladas from scratch, start with ground beef. Brown it in a skillet. Next, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, and cumin. Warm flour tortillas and fill them with the beef mix. Roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce on top and sprinkle with cheese. Bake until bubbly.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute many ingredients. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a veggie option, try black beans or lentils. You can also swap the cheese for a dairy-free option. Adjust spices based on your taste.
What can I serve with enchiladas?
Serve enchiladas with rice or beans for a complete meal. A fresh salad or avocado slices add a nice touch. Pair with chips and salsa for extra crunch. Don’t forget a cool drink to wash it down!
Troubleshooting
What to do if they are too dry?
If your enchiladas are too dry, add more enchilada sauce before baking. You can also drizzle extra sauce on top after baking. Another option is to cover the dish with foil while baking to keep moisture in.
How can I make them spicier?
To make your enchiladas spicier, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicy enchilada sauce. Consider topping with sliced fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content per Serving
Each serving of cheesy ground beef enchiladas has about 400 calories. This may vary based on the exact ingredients used. Check labels for precise calorie counts.
Tips for Healthier Versions
To make a healthier version, use lean ground beef or turkey. You can also add more veggies, like bell peppers or spinach. Opt for whole-wheat tortillas for added fiber. Reduce cheese or use a lighter cheese option to cut calories.
Making enchiladas is simple and fun. You learned the key ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips. Remember to choose your favorite meat or go vegetarian if you like. Storing leftovers properly helps them last longer. Cooking can be creative, so don’t hesitate to mix in your own flavors. Enjoy your tasty enchiladas, and impress your friends with your skills!
