Introduction
Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas offer a simple yet flavorful meal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This Tex-Mex classic is a crowd-pleaser, blending the richness of ground beef with the vibrant flavors of enchilada sauce and cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is a great go-to recipe that is sure to impress. The savory beef filling wrapped in warm tortillas, topped with tangy sauce, and melted cheese is a delightful combination that will have everyone coming back for more.
Family-Friendly Favorite
These Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are perfect for feeding a hungry family or a group of friends. The recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit different taste preferences. With simple ingredients that are often pantry staples, these enchiladas are a convenient option for any occasion. The dish can be customized by adding various toppings like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream, making it a fun and interactive meal that everyone can enjoy.
Quick and Convenient
One of the main highlights of Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas is how effortless they are to prepare. With minimal prep work and cooking time, this dish offers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The step-by-step instructions make it accessible for cooks of all levels, providing a satisfying and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or simply looking for a fuss-free dinner option, these enchiladas are a fantastic choice that delivers on taste and convenience.
What Tools You’ll Need
Cookware
– Large skillet
– Baking dish
– Aluminum foil
– Wooden spoon
To start making Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas, you will need a large skillet to cook the ground beef and other ingredients. A baking dish will be necessary to assemble the enchiladas before baking. Make sure to have aluminum foil on hand to cover the dish while baking and keep the enchiladas moist. A wooden spoon will come in handy for stirring the beef and sauce mixture.
Kitchen Utensils
– Knife
– Cutting board
– Can opener
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Tongs
Having a sharp knife and cutting board will be essential for chopping vegetables and other ingredients for the filling. A can opener is required to open cans of enchilada sauce and other canned goods. Make sure to have measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure ingredients like spices and cheese. Tongs will help in rolling the enchiladas and transferring them to the baking dish without tearing them.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
Enchilada Filling
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
To prepare the filling for the enchiladas, start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Mix in the diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Finally, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
Enchilada Sauce
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the enchilada sauce, combine tomato sauce, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and all the spices are well blended. Adjust the seasoning to your preference before using it in the enchilada recipe.
Instructions
To make Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas, follow these simple steps:
Preparing the Filling
– Heat a skillet over medium heat and add ground beef, breaking it into pieces until fully cooked.
– Add diced onions and cook until they soften, then mix in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
– Pour in a can of tomato sauce and simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
– Remove from heat, and stir in a portion of shredded cheese before setting the filling aside.
Assembling the Enchiladas
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
– Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling onto a tortilla, roll it up, and place it seam side down in the baking dish.
– Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas.
– Pour enchilada sauce over the assembled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
– Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
– Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas!
Nutrition Score
Nutritional Benefits of Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas
– Protein: Ground beef is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
– Vitamins and Minerals: Enchiladas typically contain vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and peppers, providing essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.
– Fiber: Depending on the ingredients used, enchiladas can be a good source of fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
Ground beef enchiladas can be a nutritious meal choice when balanced with a variety of vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Incorporating whole-wheat tortillas and a variety of colorful veggies can further enhance the nutritional value of this dish.
Considerations for a Balanced Diet
Opting for lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and whole-grain tortillas can help reduce saturated fats and increase fiber content in the dish. Additionally, controlling portion sizes and pairing enchiladas with a side of salad or steamed vegetables can contribute to a well-rounded and balanced meal.
While ground beef enchiladas can be a satisfying and flavorful meal option, it is essential to be mindful of the overall calorie and sodium content, especially if additional sauces, cheeses, or sour cream are added during preparation. Striking a balance between flavors, textures, and nutrition can result in a delicious and wholesome dining experience.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
– Serve the Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
– Include some sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
– Pair the enchiladas with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with a citrus vinaigrette for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Storage Tips
– If you have leftovers, allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– For longer storage, you can freeze the enchiladas. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
– When ready to eat, thaw the frozen enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add some extra cheese on top to keep them moist and flavorful.
Variations
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas
Enhance the flavor by adding a layer of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top of the enchiladas before baking. This will result in gooey, cheesy goodness that will take this dish to the next level.
Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas
For a meatless option, substitute the ground beef with black beans. Simply sauté the beans with onions, garlic, and your favorite Mexican spices before rolling them in the tortillas. Top with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly.
Bring a new twist to your enchiladas with these variations:
– Use shredded chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef for a different protein option.
– Add sliced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick to your enchiladas.
– Experiment with different types of cheese like queso fresco or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
– Incorporate diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach into the filling for added vegetables and texture.
– Consider using corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative or flour tortillas for a softer texture.
FAQs with most people commonly asked questions
Can I make Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?
– Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply bake them according to the recipe instructions. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.
How can I store leftovers?
– Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven until heated through.
When assembling Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas, be sure to keep the following FAQs in mind:
– Is it okay to use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, store-bought enchilada sauce works perfectly fine for this recipe. However, if you prefer homemade sauce, feel free to use that instead.
– Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef and will work well in this recipe.
– Do I have to use corn tortillas, or can I use flour tortillas?
While corn tortillas are traditionally used for enchiladas, you can substitute them with flour tortillas if you prefer the taste and texture.
– Can I add different toppings to customize the enchiladas?
Yes, feel free to get creative with toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños to personalize your Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas.
Conclusion
Delicious Outcome
The Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef filling seasoned with aromatic spices, wrapped in warm tortillas, and smothered in tangy enchilada sauce creates a mouthwatering experience. The melted cheese on top adds a rich and gooey finish that perfectly complements the dish. This meal is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike, whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Versatile and Convenient
These Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas are not only delicious but also versatile and convenient. You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients such as beans, corn, or various types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, this recipe can easily be prepared in advance, making it a time-saving option for busy days. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or simply preparing a quick meal for yourself, these enchiladas are a versatile and convenient choice.