There’s something about the aroma of beef enchiladas with red sauce that fills the kitchen and wraps around you like a warm hug. Picture this: tortillas stuffed to the brim with seasoned beef, enveloped in a rich, tangy sauce that dances on your taste buds, bringing a symphony of flavors that scream “comfort food.” This dish doesn’t just taste incredible; it makes you feel like you’ve won the culinary lottery.
Now, let’s be honest—life is too short for bland meals. Beef enchiladas are ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings with friends. They promise a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your apron and prepare for a delightful ride through this delicious recipe—your taste buds will thank you later!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These beef enchiladas are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavors that please any crowd
- Their stunning presentation makes them perfect for special occasions or casual weeknights
- The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it according to your preferences or what’s in your pantry
- Finally, they reheat beautifully, making leftovers an absolute treat!
I still remember the first time I made these enchiladas for my family. The look on their faces when they tasted them was priceless, and they devoured every last bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep things healthy while still being savory.
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Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for a soft texture; corn tortillas add a delightful crunch.
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Red Enchilada Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade; either way, it’s a must for flavor!
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese adds creaminess and melty goodness on top of the enchiladas.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion brings sweetness and depth to the filling.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic charm.
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Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices give the beef filling that classic Mexican flavor profile.
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Sour Cream (optional): A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the spices perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Cooking Station: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Sauté Your Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add some oil and sauté finely chopped onion until translucent and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Add Ground Beef and Spices: Toss in your ground beef along with minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook until browned while breaking apart any clumps; around 5-7 minutes should do it.
Assemble Tortillas with Filling: Take each tortilla and spoon some of the beef mixture onto one end. Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.
Cover with Red Sauce and Cheese: Pour your red enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas. Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese so it melts beautifully in the oven.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Once done, allow them to cool slightly before serving! Feel free to garnish with sour cream or fresh cilantro for an added touch.
Now that you’ve created these mouthwatering beef enchiladas with red sauce, all that’s left is to dig in! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about how you just conquered another culinary challenge!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce recipe delivers a punch of flavor and comfort
- Perfect for family gatherings, these enchiladas are sure to impress
- The rich aroma of spices will fill your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere that makes everyone hungry
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the beef and onions together, then prepare the enchilada sauce while assembling the tortillas. This timing ensures everything is hot and ready to serve simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian twist. Adding cheese or avocado can elevate this dish to new heights of deliciousness.
Storing & Reheating
Cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, let your enchiladas sit for 10 minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors
- Choose fresh ingredients when possible; they make all the difference in taste
- Don’t skimp on cheese; it’s what makes enchiladas truly indulgent
Nothing warms my heart quite like hearing my friends rave about these beef enchiladas. One memorable dinner had everyone going back for seconds, and I just smiled, knowing I’d hit the jackpot with this recipe.
FAQ
Can I use another meat in the beef enchiladas with red sauce recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken or turkey works well as substitutes.
What type of cheese is best for beef enchiladas?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt beautifully and add great flavor to your dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa in your enchilada sauce for heat.
Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful blend of seasoned ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a rich, tangy red sauce. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, these enchiladas promise a flavor-packed experience that will leave everyone craving more. With easy preparation and the option to customize, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Garnish with sour cream or fresh cilantro for an added touch of deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in oil until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add ground beef, garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook until browned (5-7 minutes), breaking up clumps.
- Spoon the beef mixture into each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with black beans or shredded vegetables. Add diced jalapeños to enhance spiciness. Allow enchiladas to sit for 10 minutes post-baking to intensify flavors.