Beef Enchilada Recipe

Introduction

The beef enchilada recipe represents a cornerstone of Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, celebrated for its savory flavors and comforting appeal. This dish, featuring corn or flour tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef and smothered in a rich chili sauce, has evolved from humble origins into a beloved staple enjoyed worldwide. Its enduring popularity stems from its adaptability, satisfying taste, and relative ease of preparation, making it a frequent choice for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

The core ingredients for a beef enchilada recipe include:

Ground Beef: Approximately 1 pound, offering a hearty protein base. Lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) is generally preferred.
Corn or Flour Tortillas: 12-18, depending on size. Corn tortillas provide a more authentic, slightly coarser texture, while flour tortillas offer a softer, more pliable option.
Enchilada Sauce: 28 ounces, either store-bought or homemade. Red enchilada sauce is the most traditional, but green enchilada sauce (salsa verde) can also be used.
Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are excellent choices.
Onion: 1 medium, diced, adding aromatic depth to the beef filling.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, enhancing the savory notes.
Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons, providing essential chili flavor.
Cumin: 1 teaspoon, adding a warm, earthy element.
Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon, contributing a subtle herbal complexity.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Optional Ingredients: Diced tomatoes, olives, sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, and green onions for garnish and added flavor.

For substitutions, ground turkey or shredded chicken can replace ground beef. Vegetarian options include beans, potatoes, or tofu. Gluten-free tortillas ensure a gluten-free dish.

Preparation Steps

The preparation phase is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.

Prepare the Beef Filling: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Saut Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Season the Beef: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.
Simmer: Add a 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce to the beef mixture and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them more pliable and prevent them from cracking when rolled. This can be done by heating each tortilla for approximately 10-15 seconds per side in a dry skillet, or wrapping a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30-60 seconds.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish.

For efficiency, prepare the beef filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even further. Ensure the tortillas are warm but not soggy before filling.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s the step-by-step guide to cooking perfect beef enchiladas:

Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling into the center of each warmed tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of cheese.
Roll and Place: Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Cover with Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the enchiladas.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
Optional Broil: For a more browned and bubbly cheese topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Adjust baking time according to oven and desired level of browning. Always use an oven thermometer for accurate temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Beef enchiladas are delicious served in a variety of ways:

Traditional Accompaniments: Serve with rice and beans, refried or black.
Garnishes: Top with sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, olives, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Side Dishes: Offer a side of Mexican corn salad, a simple green salad, or pickled jalapeos.
Plating Ideas: Arrange two or three enchiladas on a plate, garnish generously, and add a scoop of rice and beans on the side.

Experiment with different toppings and side dishes to create a personalized dining experience. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To elevate the beef enchilada recipe and avoid common pitfalls:

Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the dish will be significantly enhanced by using fresh, good-quality ingredients.
Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Overfilling can cause the tortillas to tear and the enchiladas to fall apart.
Warm the Tortillas Properly: Warmed tortillas are easier to roll and less likely to crack.
Avoid Soggy Enchiladas: Don’t over-sauce the enchiladas before baking, as this can result in a soggy dish.
Monitor Baking Time: Overbaking can dry out the enchiladas.
Flavor Enhancement: Adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of sugar to the beef filling can enhance the flavor profile.

A common mistake is using cold tortillas, which crack easily. Warming them is key. Also, ensure the beef filling is well-seasoned for a flavorful result.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the beef enchilada recipe opens a world of culinary possibilities. Its delicious flavor, cultural significance, and practical adaptability make it a rewarding dish to learn and share. Whether you’re craving a comforting family meal or entertaining guests, beef enchiladas offer a versatile and satisfying option. Embrace the process, experiment with flavors, and create your own signature version. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Try this recipe at home and discover the joy of homemade enchiladas. For more exciting cooking guides and recipes, visit foodrecipestory.com and elevate your cooking skills!