Best Recipe for Beef Enchiladas with Ground Beef

A recipe for beef enchiladas with ground beef offers a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This classic dish combines tender ground beef with a rich tomato-based sauce, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas and baked to perfection. The versatility of this recipe allows for customization to individual preferences, making it a staple in many households. This detailed guide will provide a comprehensive understanding of creating delicious beef enchiladas, from ingredient selection to cooking techniques and helpful tips.

The preparation of beef enchiladas involves several key steps, beginning with the flavorful ground beef filling. Proper seasoning is crucial to achieving the desired taste profile. The enchilada sauce, whether homemade or store-bought, contributes significantly to the overall flavor. The tortillas need to be handled carefully to prevent breakage during the rolling and baking process. The baking time is essential for ensuring a perfectly cooked and bubbly final product. Mastering these techniques will result in consistently excellent enchiladas.

Creating a successful beef enchilada dish hinges on careful attention to detail in each stage of preparation. From selecting high-quality ingredients to executing the precise cooking method, consistency and precision are key to achieving optimal results. Understanding the subtle nuances of each step, from browning the ground beef to achieving the perfect sauce consistency, elevates the final product from good to exceptional. The final presentation is also important for enhancing the overall dining experience.

Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions for Beef Enchiladas

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
5. Lightly oil a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour any remaining beef mixture over the enchiladas.
8. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro (if using).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for Beef Enchiladas

This recipe for beef enchiladas requires approximately 45 minutes of preparation and cooking time. The recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Accurate time management and portion control are crucial for ensuring both a timely and satisfying meal. Proper understanding of cooking times ensures the enchiladas are perfectly cooked without drying out. The number of servings can be easily adjusted by scaling the recipe up or down to suit the number of diners.

Nutritional Information for Beef Enchiladas

The nutritional content of this recipe for beef enchiladas is significantly influenced by the ingredients used. The ground beef provides protein and iron, while the tomatoes offer vitamins and antioxidants. The cheese contributes calcium and fat. However, the overall calorie and fat content can vary depending on the type and amount of cheese and the richness of the sauce. A balanced approach is crucial for a healthy and delicious meal.

Precise nutritional values are difficult to provide without precise ingredient specifications and weight measurements. However, this recipe is expected to be relatively high in protein, moderate in carbohydrates, and contain a moderate to high amount of fat, depending on the type of cheese and ground beef used. Using lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese can help lower the fat content.

Tips for Cooking Beef Enchiladas

Several techniques can be employed to enhance the overall quality and flavor profile of this recipe.

1. Use high-quality ingredients:

   Selecting premium ground beef, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful spices will elevate the overall taste of your enchiladas. The quality of ingredients directly correlates to the overall quality of the final dish. Pay attention to the freshness and sourcing of your ingredients for the best results.

2. Don’t overcook the tortillas:

   Overcooked tortillas become brittle and prone to breaking. Warm them gently to make them pliable but avoid drying them out. The optimal level of moisture in the tortillas is essential for successful rolling and baking.

3. Properly season the beef:

   Seasoning the ground beef generously with salt, pepper, and other spices is key to creating a flavorful filling. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to ensure perfect flavor balance. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice combinations.

4. Use a good quality enchilada sauce:

   The sauce is a crucial element of this recipe. Choose a flavorful sauce that complements the beef filling. You can even make your own sauce for a more personalized flavor profile. Consider adding roasted chilis for a deeper flavor.

5. Let the enchiladas rest:
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   Allowing the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set and makes them easier to serve. This also allows the flavors to meld together creating a more cohesive taste. Resting enhances the final eating experience.

The recipe for beef enchiladas, while seemingly straightforward, offers ample opportunity for culinary creativity. Experimenting with different cheeses, adding beans, vegetables, or different spices can significantly alter the flavor profile, appealing to a wide range of palates. The adaptability of this dish ensures repeated enjoyment and allows for personal culinary expression.

The fundamental principles of this classic dish remain consistent regardless of variations. Maintaining a balance of flavors and textures, as well as adhering to proper cooking techniques, remains crucial for achieving consistently excellent results. Each iteration of this recipe represents a chance to further refine one’s culinary skills and explore the endless possibilities for flavor combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beef Enchiladas

Many questions frequently arise concerning the preparation and cooking of this recipe.

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

   Absolutely! Experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor. The choice of cheese significantly impacts the overall flavor and texture of the finished product. Consider the melting point of the cheese when making your selection.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

   Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them later. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Baking time may need to be adjusted slightly to account for the cold filling. This method is ideal for meal prepping.

3. What if my tortillas break?

   If a tortilla breaks, don’t worry! Simply piece it together and continue assembling. The filling will help hold it together during baking. Don’t let broken tortillas deter you from enjoying this delicious meal.

4. Can I freeze beef enchiladas?

   Yes, you can freeze both assembled and baked enchiladas. For best results, freeze them before baking and bake from frozen, increasing the baking time. Ensure proper wrapping for optimal preservation in the freezer.

The apparent simplicity of the beef enchilada recipe belies its potential for culinary exploration and adaptation. Mastering this recipe opens up a world of possibilities, from experimenting with different ingredient combinations to exploring varied cooking techniques.

Ultimately, successful preparation hinges on paying attention to detail, from selecting high-quality ingredients to ensuring proper cooking times. With practice and attention to the suggestions provided, creating consistently delicious and satisfying beef enchiladas becomes achievable for any home cook.

This detailed guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of this classic dish, empowering culinary enthusiasts to create their own versions and share the culinary joy with others. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary endeavors!