This article details a beef enchiladas easy recipe, providing a straightforward approach to creating this classic dish. The recipe emphasizes simplicity and ease of preparation, making it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. Understanding the steps involved and the key ingredients allows for consistent results and a delicious meal. The focus is on achieving a flavorful, satisfying enchilada without unnecessary complexity. This recipe is a great starting point for experimenting with variations and personalizing the dish to individual tastes.
The ease of this particular recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list and uncomplicated cooking method. Preparation time is minimized while still delivering a rich and satisfying result. Many variations exist, but this version prioritizes efficiency without compromising on flavor. The recipe is easily scalable to accommodate different group sizes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and larger gatherings. Successfully mastering this recipe opens the door to confidently exploring other enchilada variations.
The fundamental elements of this easy recipe ensure consistent results, allowing even novice cooks to produce a delightful meal. The careful balance of ingredients and clear instructions make the process accessible and enjoyable. This approachable approach to cooking encourages culinary exploration and boosts confidence in the kitchen.
Ingredients for this 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 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
Instructions for this Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, Rotel, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Estimated Time and Servings for this Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
This easy beef enchilada recipe provides a clear understanding of preparation time and yields a satisfying number of servings. The table below offers a concise overview of the cooking process, ensuring efficient meal preparation. Accurate time management and portion control contribute to a successful culinary experience. The recipe is designed for simplicity, maximizing efficiency without compromising taste. Proper understanding of the time and servings ensures sufficient preparation and avoids over or under-estimation of the meal’s quantities.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Prep Time | 20 minutes |
Cook Time | 25 minutes |
Total Time | 45 minutes |
Servings | 6 |
Nutritional Information for this Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
This section provides a general overview of the nutritional content expected from this recipe. Individual nutritional values will vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used. Accurate nutritional information requires specific ingredient analysis. This provides a general guideline, but for precise calculations, utilize a nutritional calculator with the exact brands and amounts used.
The recipe is rich in protein from the ground beef and offers carbohydrates from the tortillas and some vegetables. The cheese provides calcium and fat. The overall nutritional profile is balanced but can be adjusted by altering ingredient choices, such as using whole wheat tortillas or leaner ground beef.
Tips for Cooking this Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
These tips enhance the cooking process and final product. Attention to detail ensures a superior culinary experience. Following these suggestions will elevate the quality and taste of the finished dish. These points ensure an easy yet satisfying experience.
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Use good quality enchilada sauce:
The sauce is a key component; a richer sauce significantly impacts the overall flavor. Experiment with different brands to find your preference. Consider adding a touch of your own spices for a personalized taste. Using a high-quality sauce ensures a more flavorful and satisfying final product.
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Don’t overfill the tortillas:
Overfilling can make the enchiladas difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking. Maintain a consistent filling amount for even cooking and attractive presentation. Proper filling is crucial for neat rolls and preventing spills.
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Grate your own cheese:
Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded cheese. This small step yields a noticeable improvement in the texture and flavor of the finished dish. The improvement in both texture and taste is significant.
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Warm the tortillas:
Warming the tortillas before filling makes them more pliable and less likely to break. This simple step prevents cracking and improves the overall presentation. This prevents breakage and ensures easier handling.
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Let it rest:
Allow the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes them easier to serve. The short rest improves the consistency and makes serving simpler. The result is a more enjoyable eating experience.
This easy recipe is designed for convenience, allowing home cooks to create a delicious meal without extensive culinary expertise. The focus is on achieving optimal flavor and texture through simple techniques and readily available ingredients. Mastering this recipe provides a strong foundation for exploring more complex Mexican dishes.
The streamlined approach ensures consistent results, making it an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike. The clear instructions and readily available ingredients make it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Easy Beef Enchilada Recipe
This section addresses common questions regarding this recipe, providing further clarification and assistance. This section aims to anticipate potential challenges and offer solutions to ensure a smooth cooking process. These questions and answers enhance the overall understanding and ensure a successful cooking experience.
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Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. Each cheese will impart unique flavors and textures, allowing for personalized preferences. Variety in cheese enhances the sensory experience.
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Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This simplifies preparation and allows for a more organized cooking process. This feature enhances flexibility and convenience.
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What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
You can substitute with your favorite tomato-based sauce, such as salsa or even a simple tomato sauce. The flavor profile will differ slightly, but the dish will still be delicious. Creative substitutions are possible while maintaining overall satisfaction.
This easy beef enchilada recipe offers a balanced approach to convenience and flavor. The simplicity of the recipe is balanced by the depth of flavor that it achieves. It is a recipe designed for enjoyment, not stress.
By following the provided instructions and incorporating the suggested tips, individuals can confidently create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all levels. The result is a reliable and delicious meal.
In conclusion, this recipe provides a straightforward and enjoyable path to creating delicious beef enchiladas. The focus on ease of preparation does not compromise the overall quality and taste of the final dish.