This article details a beef enchiladas easy recipe, providing a straightforward approach to creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The recipe emphasizes simplicity and ease of preparation, making it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. This simplified method retains the rich flavors characteristic of traditional enchiladas, offering a convenient and flavorful option for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The recipe’s focus on readily available ingredients contributes to its practicality and widespread appeal. This guide includes a comprehensive list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
The core of this easy enchilada recipe lies in its streamlined approach to both ingredient selection and cooking technique. The recipe prioritizes convenience without compromising on taste. Careful selection of ingredients ensures that the final product is both flavorful and visually appealing. The cooking method minimizes complexity, thereby reducing preparation time while maximizing deliciousness. The outcome is a dish that is both satisfying and simple to prepare, ideal for busy individuals or families.
The emphasis on ease of preparation does not detract from the dish’s rich, complex flavor profile; rather, it makes the recipe more accessible to a wider range of cooks. The result is a satisfying and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort and culinary expertise. This approach makes creating a satisfying enchilada dinner significantly easier and more time-efficient.
Ingredients for an Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions for an Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, Rotel, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour any remaining beef mixture over the enchiladas. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for This Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
This simple recipe is designed for efficiency and ease. The preparation time, including browning the beef and assembling the enchiladas, is relatively short. The baking time is equally concise, contributing to the recipe’s overall expediency. The resulting dish yields a generous number of servings, making it ideal for sharing or enjoying leftovers. The table below provides a clear overview of the timing and yield.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Prep Time | 20 minutes |
Cook Time | 25 minutes |
Servings | 6-8 |
Nutritional Information for This Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
This recipe provides a balanced meal, offering a good source of protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the tortillas. The addition of vegetables, though limited, contributes to the overall nutritional value. The cheese adds calcium and fat, while the enchilada sauce provides a flavorful base. A precise nutritional breakdown can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.
Note: The following nutritional information is an approximation and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 350-400 |
Protein | 20-25g |
Fat | 18-22g |
Carbohydrates | 30-35g |
Tips for Cooking an Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
These tips enhance the cooking process and contribute to the overall quality of the final dish. Paying attention to these details can elevate the experience and result in more satisfying enchiladas.
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Use fresh ingredients:
Fresh onions and spices enhance the flavor profile significantly.
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Don’t overcook the beef:
Overcooked beef can become dry and tough. Aim for a well-browned but still juicy result.
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Warm the tortillas:
Warming the tortillas slightly before filling helps prevent them from cracking.
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Use a good quality enchilada sauce:
The sauce is a key flavor component; choose a brand you enjoy.
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Grate your own cheese:
Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect melting.
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Allow the enchiladas to rest:
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to allow the filling to set and the cheese to cool slightly. This aids in easier slicing and portioning.
The simplicity of this recipe allows for easy customization. Experimenting with different cheeses or adding other vegetables such as bell peppers can easily be incorporated. This adaptability makes the recipe highly versatile, catering to individual preferences and dietary needs.
The success of this recipe lies in its balanced approach: it’s flavorful, yet straightforward. The focus on ease of preparation does not sacrifice taste, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Frequently Asked Questions about This Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
Addressing common queries enhances the user experience and ensures a smooth cooking process. Clarifying these aspects leads to more successful outcomes and greater enjoyment of the recipe.
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Can I use different types of tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas can be substituted for corn tortillas, though the texture and taste will vary slightly.
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Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, the enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving. Store the assembled dish in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
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What if I don’t have Rotel?
You can substitute with diced tomatoes and a pinch of additional chili powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a similar effect.
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Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes, assembled enchiladas can be frozen before baking. Bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
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How can I make these spicier?
Add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture.
This straightforward approach to creating delicious beef enchiladas emphasizes efficiency and ease without compromising flavor. The recipe offers a balanced and satisfying meal that can easily become a staple in any home kitchen.
Ultimately, this easy beef enchilada recipe provides a convenient and flavorful option for those seeking a simple yet delicious meal. Its adaptable nature and ease of preparation make it a highly valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire. The focus on uncomplicated methods and readily available ingredients makes creating this classic dish accessible to all.
In conclusion, this recipe provides a simplified yet satisfying approach to a beloved classic. Enjoy!
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