Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

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Introduction

The “ground beef enchilada recipe” is a cornerstone of Tex-Mex cuisine, celebrated for its savory flavors and satisfying nature. Dating back to the 19th century, enchiladas have evolved from simple corn tortillas dipped in chili sauce to the complex and varied dishes enjoyed today. The ground beef enchilada recipe’s popularity stems from its affordability, ease of preparation, and customizable ingredients, making it a family favorite across generations. It is commonly cooked at home for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and festive celebrations, offering a hearty and delicious meal that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• Optional: 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, drained

For the Enchiladas:

• 12 corn tortillas (6-inch)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend)
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives

Possible Substitutions:

• Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
• Corn tortillas can be replaced with flour tortillas for a softer texture.
• Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for added spice.

Preparation Steps

Prior to cooking, meticulous preparation ensures a flavorful and efficient process. Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Ensure all canned goods are opened and accessible. Consider warming the tortillas slightly to prevent them from cracking when rolled; this can be done by microwaving them for a few seconds or quickly heating them on a dry skillet. Gather all your ingredients in a well-organized manner, this streamlines the cooking process. A crucial tip is to taste and adjust the seasoning of the ground beef filling before assembling the enchiladas; this is the best time to customize the flavors to your preference.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Ground Beef:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce and diced green chilies (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembling the Enchiladas:

1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C).
2. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Warm the tortillas slightly (see preparation steps).
4. Dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, coating both sides.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture down the center of each tortilla.
6. Sprinkle with a small amount of cheese.
7. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
8. Repeat with remaining tortillas, ground beef mixture, and cheese.

Baking the Enchiladas:

1. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas in the baking dish.
2. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.

Serving Suggestions

“Ground beef enchilada recipe” is best served hot, straight from the oven. Traditional accompaniments include sour cream or Mexican crema, guacamole or diced avocado, fresh salsa, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Consider serving with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a vibrant plating presentation, garnish with sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor. A refreshing side salad with a lime vinaigrette can also provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the enchiladas.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To enhance the flavor of the “ground beef enchilada recipe”, consider using a high-quality enchilada sauce. Homemade enchilada sauce can elevate the dish significantly. To prevent the tortillas from cracking during rolling, lightly warm them in a skillet or microwave. A common mistake is overfilling the tortillas, which can cause them to tear. Avoid overcrowding the baking dish, as this can prevent even cooking. Ensure the ground beef filling is not too watery, as this can make the enchiladas soggy. Finally, allowing the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the filling to set and prevents them from falling apart when served.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the “ground beef enchilada recipe” brings a world of flavor and culinary satisfaction to the home kitchen. Its hearty nature, customizable ingredients, and cultural significance make it a versatile and beloved dish for any occasion. Whether adapting it with different cheeses, sauces, or fillings, the ground beef enchilada recipe offers endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Now that the process is understood, it is time to create a delicious meal at home. Discover more enticing recipes and essential cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com and continue the culinary journey.