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Classic Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Classic Beef Enchiladas Recipe


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4.6 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 42-48 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Beef Enchiladas bring a taste of Mexican comfort straight to your dinner table. Layers of tender beef, melted cheese, and zesty sauce wrap up in warm tortillas for a meal that’ll make your family cheer.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Base Ingredients:

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10 ounces / 283 grams) red enchilada sauce
  • 1 can (4 ounces / 113 grams) diced green chiles
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Topping Ingredients:

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives
  • 1 avocado, diced

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large skillet over medium heat for cooking the beef.
  2. Crumble 1 pound ground beef into the skillet. Cook and break apart the meat until it turns brown and starts to crisp.
  3. Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent.
  4. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper over the meat mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute spices.
  5. Mix in 4 ounces diced green chiles and ½ cup enchilada sauce. Simmer the filling for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  6. Lay a tortilla flat and spread 3-4 tablespoons of beef mixture down its center. Sprinkle ¼ cup shredded cheese on top.
  7. Roll the tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Repeat with remaining 7 tortillas.
  8. Pour the remaining 1½ cups enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, ensuring complete coverage.
  9. Scatter 1½ cups shredded cheese across the top of the enchiladas.
  10. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22-25 minutes until cheese melts completely and edges turn golden brown.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, ½ cup diced tomatoes, ¼ cup green onions, ¼ cup black olives, and 1 diced avocado.
  12. Serve with ½ cup sour cream on the side for a creamy finishing touch.

Notes

  • Marinate the beef overnight for deeper flavor and more tender meat.
  • Warm tortillas briefly before rolling to prevent cracking and make them more pliable.
  • Choose a high-quality, fresh enchilada sauce for the best overall taste and authentic flavor.
  • For a lighter version, swap beef for shredded chicken or use ground turkey as a protein alternative.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 27-33 minutes
  • Category: Sautéed
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 555 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 920 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg