Introduction to Beef Enchiladas
When it comes to quick, satisfying, and delicious meals, beef enchiladas should be on the top of your list! These flavorful wraps are not just a treat for your taste buds—they're also an excellent choice for busy young professionals. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of around 35 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dinner without disrupting your evening schedule.
Why are beef enchiladas a perfect homemade meal for busy young professionals?
Beef enchiladas offer the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. After a long day at work, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe, using ground beef, refried beans, and a scrumptious homemade enchilada sauce, makes it easy to enjoy something nourishing without skimping on flavor.
These enchiladas are also highly customizable! You can add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Plus, they reheat beautifully, making them an ideal meal to prepare in advance. So, whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these delightful beef enchiladas can simplify your meal prep while still impressing your guests.
If you're looking for a way to elevate your weekday dinners, check out the full recipe for these delicious beef enchiladas!
Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas
Essential ingredients for flavor-packed beef enchiladas
To create mouthwatering beef enchiladas, you'll need a blend of essential ingredients that work in harmony to deliver robust flavors. Start with ground beef, which forms the hearty base of your filling. Add refried beans and black beans for additional texture and taste. You'll also want a homemade enchilada spice mix, comprised of cumin, paprika, and oregano to infuse authenticity into your dish. The rich enchilada sauce, made from chicken stock and tomato passata, complements the flavors beautifully. Don't forget tortillas (8) to hold everything together and a generous amount of grated cheese to top it all off!
Optional garnishes and toppings for enhanced taste
To elevate your beef enchiladas, consider adding some optional garnishes. Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions add brightness and a pop of color. You can also serve with a side of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess. For those who enjoy heat, scattering some jalapeños on top can provide a spicy kick. These little touches make all the difference in the flavor profile!
Step-by-step preparation of Beef Enchiladas
Creating mouthwatering beef enchiladas is truly a delightful experience! To help you along your culinary journey, here’s a straightforward step-by-step guide to ensure your success in the kitchen.
Gather and prep all your ingredients
Start by making sure you have all your ingredients ready. This includes:
- Spice Mix: onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and optional cayenne pepper.
- Enchilada Sauce: olive oil, flour, chicken stock (low sodium), tomato passata (or canned tomato sauce), salt, and pepper.
- Beef Filling: ground beef, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, refried beans, and drained black beans.
- Enchiladas: tortillas, grated cheese (like Monterey Jack or cheddar), and chopped cilantro for garnish.
Having everything prepped means less stress while you cook. If you want to learn about the benefits of prepping ingredients, check out this cooking prep guide.
Create the flavorful enchilada spice mix
In a small bowl, mix together your spice ingredients—1 teaspoon each of onion and garlic powder, along with 1 tablespoon each of cumin, paprika, and oregano. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper to your liking. This blend is the secret to the amazing flavors in your beef enchiladas.
Prepare the enchilada sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and stir in the flour, creating a paste. Continue cooking for about a minute, then gradually whisk in half a cup of chicken broth. This will quickly turn into a thick paste. Follow by adding the remaining broth, tomato passata, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of your spice mix. Increase the heat slightly and stir regularly until the sauce thickens—about 3–5 minutes.
Cook the beef filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for about 2 minutes. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, mix in your spice blend, refried beans, black beans, and a splash of enchilada sauce. Stir and cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
Assemble the enchiladas in the baking dish
Spread a little bit of sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Take a tortilla, fill it with the beef mixture, and roll it up tightly. Place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and filling—remember, the more love you put into each enchilada, the tastier they will be!
Bake and enjoy your delicious creation
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle generously with cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired. Your homemade beef enchiladas are ready to impress!
Enjoy this delicious dish with friends or family, and don't forget to share your cooking stories!
Variations on Beef Enchiladas
Vegetarian Enchiladas for a Meatless Option
If you're looking for a meatless alternative, vegetarian enchiladas are a fantastic choice! Simply replace the beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and your favorite vegetables. Add some cheese and a hint of spices, and you’ll have a deliciously hearty dish that everyone will enjoy. For a creamy texture, consider mixing in some ricotta or cream cheese.
Chicken Enchiladas for a Different Twist
Craving a change? Chicken enchiladas offer a delightful twist on the classic beef enchiladas. Cook shredded chicken with smoky spices, then roll it up in tortillas and cover them in enchilada sauce and cheese. You’ll find that the lightness of chicken pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the sauce. For added freshness, top with cilantro and lime juice. Explore these variations to keep your dinner table exciting!
For more ideas, check out for vegetarian enchilada recipes or chicken enchilada variations for even more inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Beef Enchiladas
How to Make Ahead for Meal Prep
Preparing beef enchiladas in advance can save you time during busy weeknights. Simply roll the enchiladas and place them in a greased casserole dish. It's a great idea to smear a bit of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Store the sauce separately in the fridge and pour it over just before baking. This way, you can pop them in the oven for a quick dinner that seems freshly made.
Tips for Properly Rolling and Placing Enchiladas
Rolling enchiladas can be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Start by placing the filling on the lower third of each tortilla. Tightly roll them up while tucking in the sides. When placing them in the dish, always keep the seam side down to avoid unraveling. This not only helps with aesthetics but also ensures a well-cooked enchilada.
Need more advice? Check out this guide for additional tips on enchilada cooking techniques!
Serving suggestions for Beef Enchiladas
Perfect pairings for a complete meal
To elevate your beef enchiladas experience, consider serving them with fresh sides that complement their rich flavors. Topping your enchiladas with diced avocado or a sprinkle of tangy feta adds a delightful contrast. A zesty salsa verde or pico de gallo will introduce brightness to each bite, while the creaminess of sour cream balances the heat beautifully.
Ideas for sides and drinks to complement enchiladas
For sides, try serving a simple Mexican rice or a refreshing corn salad tossed with lime juice and cilantro. Don’t forget to include tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. As for drinks, a chilled horchata or Mexican soda will quench your thirst perfectly, while an iced tea infused with lime can add a refreshing touch.
Explore more delightful sides and drinks here for the ultimate meal experience!
Time breakdown for Beef Enchiladas
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your beef enchiladas is quick and easy! You'll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, mixing spices, and chopping veggies.
Cooking time
Once you start cooking, these delicious enchiladas take around 35 minutes to come together, from sautéing the beef and veggies to baking the final dish.
Total time from start to finish
All in all, you’ll be enjoying your beef enchiladas in just 45 minutes! This makes it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time but still want something comforting and delicious.
For a detailed recipe, check out RecipeTin Eats. It’s packed with tips on perfecting this classic dish!
Nutritional Facts for Beef Enchiladas
Calories per serving
Enjoying a delicious serving of beef enchiladas brings about 410 calories. While they are hearty and satisfying, it’s all about the balance when savoring these comfort food favorites.
Key nutrients like protein and fiber
These flavorful enchiladas are packed with nutrients! You'll find approximately:
- Protein: 25g — Essential for muscle repair and growth, making these enchiladas a filling choice post-workout.
- Fiber: 10g — Aiding digestion and keeping you fuller longer, thanks to the inclusion of beans and tortillas.
Overall, beef enchiladas make for a nutritious, fulfilling meal. Be sure to check out the recipe for more creative variations! For further insights on nutritional benefits, consider visiting Healthline or WebMD.
FAQs about Beef Enchiladas
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef in your beef enchiladas, there are plenty of tasty options! Ground turkey or chicken works well as lean substitutes and absorb flavors beautifully. For a vegetarian option, consider using black beans, lentils, or even crumbled tofu seasoned with your favorite spices. You can check out this article on vegetarian protein options for more ideas.
Can I freeze cooked beef enchiladas?
Absolutely! Beef enchiladas freeze remarkably well. Simply let them cool completely, then wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in an airtight container. They should retain their flavor and texture for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How can I customize the heat level in the enchiladas?
Adjusting the spice level in your beef enchiladas is easy! Start by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in your spice mix or choose milder enchilada sauces. For a stronger kick, add chopped jalapeños or use hotter varieties of chili powder. Feel free to sample as you go!
Conclusion on Beef Enchiladas
Homemade beef enchiladas are not just a delicious meal; they offer a wholesome, fulfilling experience. Making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Ready to impress your dinner guests? Try the recipe and savor the joy of cooking!
Beef Enchiladas
Equipment
- large saucepan
- skillet
- baking dish
Ingredients
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, spiciness
Enchilada Sauce
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoon flour plain/all purpose
- 2 cups chicken stock low sodium
- 1.5 cups tomato passata or US 1 can (8 oz) canned tomato sauce
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
Beef Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup onion finely chopped (~1 cup)
- 1 lb ground beef (mince)
- 400 g refried beans (1 can, I use Old El Paso)
- 400 g black beans (1 can, drained)
Enchiladas
- 8 pieces tortillas (or burrito wraps)
- 1.5 cups grated melting cheese or more (I like Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese)
- cilantro/coriander leaves roughly chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Spice Mix Preparation
- Mix together Spice Mix ingredients. Set aside.
Enchilada Sauce Preparation
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and mix to combine into a paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add ½ cup chicken broth, whisk straight away then it will turn into a thick smooth paste quite quickly.
- Add remaining chicken broth, passata, salt, pepper and 2 tablespoons of SPICE MIX. Whisk.
- Increase heat slightly to medium high. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, whisking regularly, until the sauce thickens to the consistency of thick syrup. Remove from stove.
Filling Preparation
- Preheat oven to 180C/350F.
- Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Add garlic and onion, cook for 2 minutes.
- Add beef and cook for 2 minutes, breaking it up as you go. Add remaining Spice Mix. Cook for a further 2 minutes or until completely brown.
- Add refried beans, black beans, about ¼ cup of Enchilada Sauce + salt & pepper. Mix and cook for 2 minutes then remove from stove.
Assembly and Baking
- Smear a bit of Sauce on the bottom of a baking dish (stops sliding).
- Place filling on the lower third of a tortilla. Roll up then place in the baking dish, seam side down. Repeat with remaining Filling & Tortillas.
- Pour Sauce over the Enchiladas, top with cheese, bake for 10 minutes covered then 10 minutes uncovered. Serve hot!
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