Introduction
Welcome to a culinary journey that’s sure to warm your heart and spice up your mealtime! Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas. This recipe brings together savory ground beef with a blend of spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with melted cheese. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Let’s get cooking and fill your kitchen with the intoxicating aroma of these mouthwatering enchiladas!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking these delightful enchiladas.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep it lean and healthy.
- Season the meat mixture by adding cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every bite is infused with flavor, then stir in half of the enchilada sauce for added moisture and taste.
- Take a flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover them well for a saucy finish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the enchiladas, creating a golden, bubbly topping that is irresistible.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, forming a delightful crust.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For a twist, consider adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture for added texture and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add chopped jalapeños or switch out the enchilada sauce for a spicier variety. These enchiladas also freeze well—just bake them for 15 minutes instead of 20 if cooking from frozen!
Cooking Techniques
Learning to brown ground beef properly is key. Make sure to break the meat into small pieces, allowing it to develop a rich, deep flavor as it cooks. It’s also important to drain excess fat to keep your enchiladas from being greasy. When rolling your tortillas, don’t overfill them—keeping them manageable will help ensure they stay together nicely during baking!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully in this recipe, providing a lighter alternative.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or black beans, and use a vegetable-based enchilada sauce for a delicious vegetarian meal.
What should I serve with enchiladas?
A fresh side salad, Spanish rice, or refried beans complement these enchiladas excellently, rounding out a comforting dinner.
Conclusion
And there you have it—an easy, delicious recipe for Ground Beef Enchiladas that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! With their savory filling, gooey cheese, and fragrant spices, these enchiladas are perfect for any occasion. So gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy every scrumptious bite. Happy cooking!