A delicious aroma wafts through the air as you imagine savory beef enchiladas with red sauce bubbling away in the oven. Picture that cheesy goodness melting over tender tortillas, topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro—mouthwatering! These little bundles of joy are not just a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing delight for the taste buds.
Last Christmas, I surprised my family with these beef enchiladas at our holiday gathering. The laughter as we devoured them together still echoes in my heart. It was one of those epic meals where everyone begged for seconds (or thirds)! With these enchiladas, you can turn any ordinary evening into a festive fiesta!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These easy beef enchiladas with red sauce offer rich flavors and simple preparation
- Visually appealing and customizable to your taste, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or celebrations
- The warm tortillas wrapped around savory filling create a comforting dish everyone will love!
Sharing these delicious creations has turned into my family’s favorite tradition; they always ask for more!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish flavorful without excessive grease.
- Tortillas: Choose corn tortillas for authenticity or flour tortillas for added softness.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought works well, but homemade adds an unforgettable depth of flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese; it melts beautifully and enhances flavor.
- Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness; yellow or white varieties work best here.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; you can skip it if you’re not a fan!
- Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the flavors perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial as it ensures even cooking while allowing your house to smell amazing.
Sauté the Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook about one pound of ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent and fragrant.
Add Seasoning and Sauce: Sprinkle in some chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper while stirring in half a cup of red enchilada sauce. Let this simmer for about five minutes until nice and cozy.
Assemble Your Enchiladas: Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly. Place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish like little soldiers ready for battle!
Cover with More Sauce & Cheese: Pour remaining red sauce generously over the rolled tortillas. Top with shredded cheddar cheese—because cheese makes everything better!
Bake Until Golden & Delicious: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—just wait till that cheesy goodness starts to bubble!
And there you have it! A plateful of delightful beef enchiladas with red sauce that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Mastering beef enchiladas with red sauce can elevate your dinner game
- The aroma of simmering spices and melted cheese creates a delightful atmosphere
- These enchiladas are perfect for gatherings, providing a hearty meal that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef while preparing the sauce; assemble enchiladas as you go for efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef for chicken or beans, and experiment with different cheeses for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your beef enchiladas with red sauce shine, be sure to season your meat well
- Using fresh tortillas instead of stale ones makes a big difference in texture
- Don’t rush the simmering time; it develops richer flavors in your sauce
Sharing my first attempt at making beef enchiladas with red sauce always brings laughter; I accidentally used too much chili powder and made my friends cry instead of cheer!
FAQ
How can I make my beef enchiladas healthier?
Use lean ground beef or substitute with turkey or lentils for a healthier twist.
Can I freeze leftover beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze before baking for up to three months.
What toppings work best with beef enchiladas?
Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Delicious Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 enchiladas per serving) 1x
Description
Savor these mouthwatering beef enchiladas with red sauce, filled with tender beef and topped with melted cheese for a delightful meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir in half a cup of red enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
