In the world of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the warm embrace of beef enchiladas with red sauce. Imagine biting into a soft tortilla filled with savory seasoned beef, all smothered in a rich and spicy red sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a meal that’s as comforting as a hug from grandma after a bad day.
Now picture this: It’s Friday night. You’re tired from a long week at work, and all you want is something hearty and satisfying. Enter the glorious beef enchiladas! Not only do they hit every flavor note perfectly, but they also transport you straight to a sunny fiesta in Mexico with every mouthful. Whether you’re gathering friends for taco night or just treating yourself to a cozy evening at home, these enchiladas will make your taste buds sing like they just won the lottery.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious recipe for beef enchiladas with red sauce is straightforward enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow guests
- The vibrant colors and flavors make it a feast for both eyes and palate
- Customize ingredients based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences easily
- Perfectly versatile for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings!
I once made these beef enchiladas for my family during our annual “Who Can Eat the Most?” challenge. Spoiler alert: everyone lost because we couldn’t resist going back for seconds (and thirds).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while maintaining flavor; it’s the heart of these tasty enchiladas.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional; however, flour tortillas offer extra softness if that’s your style.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is fine in a pinch but homemade adds depth; try using chili powder and tomato sauce.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the top; feel free to mix them up!
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness; cook until translucent to enhance its flavor.
- Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices elevate the flavor profile; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Sauté Onions and Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Seasoning and Sauce: Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and half of your red enchilada sauce into the cooked beef mixture. Simmer until heated through; this will elevate those flavors!
Fill Tortillas Like a Pro!: Warm tortillas briefly in a pan or microwave so they’re pliable. Spoon some beef filling onto each tortilla; roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Top With Sauce & Cheese: Pour remaining red sauce evenly over rolled tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top—because more cheese is always better!
Bake To Perfection!: Bake uncovered in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Enjoy your delicious creation by serving hot with fresh cilantro or sour cream if desired!
Now that you have mastered making scrumptious beef enchiladas with red sauce at home, gather your loved ones around the table and relish every bite together!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delightful combination of flavors, making them perfect for any occasion
- The aroma of simmering spices fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table
- These enchiladas are not just tasty; they’re a comforting hug on a plate
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef, then prepare your enchilada sauce while assembling tortillas and fillings. This sequence keeps everything warm and ready to serve.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or chipotle for an extra kick. You can also swap beef for chicken or beans to cater to different tastes.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh tortillas for a soft texture that holds up well
- Don’t rush the simmering process; it deepens flavor
- Always taste your sauce before pouring it over the enchiladas!
Sharing my first experience making beef enchiladas with red sauce felt like a culinary rite of passage, especially after receiving rave reviews from family!
FAQ
What can I use instead of ground beef in beef enchiladas with red sauce?
You can substitute ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Can I freeze leftover beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Yes, you can freeze them wrapped tightly for up to three months without losing flavor.
How do I make my red sauce spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking your sauce for added heat.
Delicious Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a comforting culinary delight, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Filled with seasoned beef and topped with rich red sauce, they’re sure to impress.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 enchiladas) 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, and half of the enchilada sauce into the cooked beef mixture. Simmer until heated through.
- Warm tortillas briefly to make them pliable. Spoon beef filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining red sauce over rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
